Wesley United Methodist Returns to Xiquina, Guatemala

For decades, Wesley United Methodist Church in Marco Island, along with friends from the Greater Marco Area, has been traveling to Guatemala - not just to build structures but to build relationships. This year’s trip to the village of Xiquina was no different. 

Our team partners with the Living Heritage Foundation (https://www.livingheritagefoundation.org), an organization that believes in walking alongside communities rather than leading from ahead. They have been working in Guatemala for over a decade, listening to local leaders, parents, teachers, and construction professionals to support projects that make a real difference. This kind of partnership means the work we do isn’t just about what we think is best - it’s about what the people of Xiquina know they need.

Over the years, we’ve helped build classrooms for middle and high school students, ensuring they have a safe place to learn and grow. This time, we spent five days working side by side with the community to construct a new gathering space and a much-needed storage area for the school. With this, our construction work in Xiquina is wrapping up, but the impact of these projects will continue for generations.

But the heart of our mission isn’t in the bricks and mortar - it’s in the moments. It’s in the laughter of children as we played games, in the shared stories around meals, and in the deepening friendships with families who welcomed us with open arms. It’s in the time spent encouraging the local medical clinic staff during their weekly visit, standing in solidarity with those who dedicate their lives to caring for others.

As we packed up and said our goodbyes, we knew that while this chapter of construction was ending, our connection to Xiquina is far from over. The friendships we’ve made, the lessons we’ve learned, and the faith we’ve strengthened will stay with us, shaping not only the village we’ve served but also each of us who had the privilege to be part of this mission.

Wesley United Methodist Church is deeply grateful for the prayers and support of our congregation and the wider Marco Island community. This mission has been a testament to the power of love in action, and we are honored to continue being part of Xiquina’s story. As we reflect on our time in Guatemala, we hold onto the joy, the love, and the unshakable belief that when we serve together, we grow together.

To learn more about Wesley United Methodist Church and our mission work, visit wesleymarco.org, email us at info@wesleymarco.org, or call 239-394-3734.