Activities & Experiences
Each experience is a little different, but many visitors will:
- Participate in a guided tour of Mission programs and learn more about the Mission’s history and program areas
- Join the Construction crew for half-day service projects, supporting the building of fuel-efficient stoves, as well as wood, block, and hybrid houses
- Participate in a ‘Day in the Life’ at the Women’s Center, learning more about weaving, cooking, and other daily activities
- Discover what Montessorri education is all about and learn about the colegio (school)
- Visit the Cafe Juan Ana facility to explore coffee growing, processing, roasting, and try some of the world’s best coffee
- Connect with and hear talks from community members
- Explore surrounding communities on a boat tour around Lake Atitlan
Depending on the goals and length of your visit, we will work to ensure you have a meaningful experience, rooted in learning and cultural understanding.
Community Groups & Individuals
High School, university, church, community groups, and individuals often visit the San Lucas Mission to volunteer and learn about the efforts in San Lucas, and participate in the cross-cultural experience the Mission offers.
Visiting groups discover insight into life in Guatemala through educational talks from community leaders. Other cultural opportunities are provided like the “day in the life” class at the Women’s Center, which teaches visitors how to make tortillas, carry firewood, and hand-wash clothing.
Medical Volunteers: Surgical & Community Health Groups
There are many medical and surgical groups that come to visit the San Lucas Mission to volunteer, learn about the efforts in San Lucas, and participate in the cross-cultural experience the Mission offers. Medical groups spend most of their time working in outlying communities in cooperation with the Health Promoters, while surgical groups are based in the clinic.
Through working alongside Guatemalans, receiving talks from community members, and observing the local culture, group members can learn about the efforts of the Mission clinic and the rural healthcare program, as well as the situation of healthcare in Guatemala.
Click here to learn more about medical volunteers in San Lucas
Mission Immersion Trips
Participants spend more time learning about Guatemalan culture and mission programs. They meet with program directors as they share hopes and dreams for their programs. These trips are designed for people who have been to the Mission before as well as total newcomers. To learn more about the experience, cost, or registration, please contact Ellen Mathiowetz.
Visitor Expectations
Cultural sensitivity and openness to the local culture is paramount in ensuring that a cross-cultural experience is as fruitful and as mutually dignifying as possible. Visitors should come ready to explore San Lucas and the culture of the area and be willing to leave behind pre-conceptions. To be humble, respectful, and open to learning will ensure a meaningful stay in San Lucas Tolimán. We encourage all Visitors to review pre-trip Orientation materials and to practice active reflection during and after their experience in Guatemala.