Mission, Vision, and Values

Who we are: Friends of San Lucas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to generating support for the Mission in San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala. The staff, board, and supporters are an eclectic group, motivated in a variety of ways. Some of us are life-long followers of Christ, dedicated to bringing the kingdom of God closer in all we do. Some of us are deeply motivated by the work of the Catholic Church and its commitment to create a more just world. Some of us have been touched by the work of the Mission and by the people of San Lucas and have committed ourselves to working with them. Whatever our motivation, we are united in this: we believe in this work and are dedicated to its success.

Our history: Beginning in 1963, Fr. Greg Schaffer, Fr. John Goggin, and the School Sisters of Notre Dame partnered with local leadership to address the immediate effects of poverty in San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala. Fr. Greg served this community until his passing in 2012, when Friends of San Lucas was formed to continue this legacy. Learn more here.

Our partners: Local leadership is at the center of our work. Confronting centuries of systemic injustice and historic oppression, we support community-led solutions to community-identified challenges. We strive to create relationships of mutuality, built on cultural strengths and collaboration, for long-term, meaningful change.

Our foundation: Rooted in principles of Catholic Social Teaching, our work is guided by social justice, solidarity, and a belief in the dignity of the human person. Like Christ, we practice radical acceptance, hospitality, and strive to be welcoming of all people.

Core purpose To inspire Christ-like loving and generous action, always striving for cultural understanding rooted in humility.

Mission Friends of San Lucas partners with and advocates for the San Lucas Mission by supporting its locally-led programs. Through relationships, we believe that hearts and minds can be transformed.

Vision We envision a more just world, where all people have the opportunity to lead lives of dignity and hope.

Values