Virginia in Guatemala

Hello Canada! and Welcome 2 010!

2010-01-02T20:29:00.000-08:00

A warm welcome home from my church in Canada

Almost one month ago, Dec.3/09, I headed home to Canada to start a one year sabbatical from my medical mission work. I thank God for the wonderful privilege of having served Him for the past four years in the highlands of Guatemala amongst the Mayan Indians.

Starting my medical missions ministry among the Quiche Mayan Indians in Chichicastenango - 2006

Checking the health of a child in the nutrition program, ASELSI Ministries, 2007

School nurse to the Pokomchi Mayan Indians - Impact Ministries - 2009

I can't express how deeply grateful I am to my precious Lord for having chosen me to bring His love and transformation to the poor, lost, lame and hungry of Guatemala. All I can say, is, if He says "Go!" to you, then go, and He will prove Himself big on your behalf as you trust Him in obedience to His Word.

Young girls enthralled to hear the story of Jesus - 2006

"Going" in obedience and faith will be a life changing experience...guaranteed! I am coming back a changed person,... humbled by the faith of my Guatemalan brothers and fellow co-workers in the gospel, deepened in my relationship to God as He pursued me with His love and pushed me to the limits, grateful for the sacrificial giving of my supporters as they responded with open hands and hearts to the needs in Guatemala, and profoundly aware that my worldview has changed as I see life more clearly from God's perspective and with His love for all mankind. What a gracious God we have!

Prayer meeting in a Quiche Mayan home- 2006

Young ladies respond to the gospel and gather weekly in my home to hear the Word - 2007-09

I went to Guatemala to give, love and bring the transforming power of Christ and I've returned transformed myself!! God is very interested in our service to Him, but He is more interested in our heart relationship of obedience to Him and seeing the character of His Son, Christ formed deeply in us..... so deep that we become the fragrance of Christ to a dying world where ever we may be.

Dressing burn wounds in the home of a Pokomchi Mayan lady - 2009

I must say "goodbye" to Guatemala for awhile and embrace God's will for me over this next year or so of sabbatical in Canada... and so, I say "hello" to Canada and look forward with expectant anticipation of God's work in and through me in Canada during 2010. He is faithful to His promises and has destined His children to glorious adventures in Him. "Hello" Canada and welcome 2010!... A year of great expectations and new beginnings!

View from my bedroom window in Canada. We've had snow and temperatures well below freezing since I've been here.

This past month of December has been a whirlwind of activity and family events leading up to Christmas....our precious Saviour's birth. I have felt the embracing love of the Lord through my family as they have welcomed me home. I would like to share a few family photos with you of this special time. I did make a five day trip to Edmonton to see my son Shawn and daughter in law Kate and their new ministry church but sorry, I don't have any photos to show. Here's the rest of the family though....

Stephen playing at a benefit concert for missions

Stephen, Kindra and Eva Jade in their new home

Me and my grandbabies, Isabella and Eva Jade

Christmas family gathering at my sister's home - my mom and step dad are in the sunlight

Happy New Year!!! Welcome 2010!!! Let 2010 be a year of great expectations for you and new beginnings in the Lord. Have a blessed year filled with the peace and confidence that can only come from knowing God.

"God who began the good work within you will continue His work until it is finally finished on that day when Christ Jesus comes back again." Philippians 1:6

Recollections of My Last Month in Guatemala

2009-12-06T19:39:00.000-08:00

November was a whirl wind month of evangelist activity which involved traveling throughout Guatemala saying "goodbye" to many friends, missionaries, co-workers and patients.

On November 6, Impact Ministries at Tactic, Alta Verapaz released me with a "farewell" party and prayer of blessing as I entered into my last month of missionary service in Guatemala, at least for this next year, 2010. God willing, I will return to Guatemala from my sabbatical year in Canada in January 2011, again serving with passion and commitment, the needs of the poor and hurting indigenous peoples. Meanwhile in Canada, I will press into the Lord, learning more of His love and preparing for a greater anointing for service when I return.

Farewell and blessing by Impact Ministries in Tactic, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala

I would like to give you a few highlights of this last month. In early November I stayed in Guatemala City for several days and visited sick children and a missionary in one of the large city hospitals. It was a delight to visit with the children I had worked with in one of Impact Minstry's village schools and to witness how God was intervening on their behalf.
See my previous blog of Nov. 12.

Evelyn waiting for heart surgery in a hospital in Guatemala City

Following that, I had the blessing of volunteering my nursing skills at a week long camp for the disabled in Chimaltenango.

Bethel Ministries week long Christian camp for disabled teenagers and young adults.

It was a special delight to spend time with my "sponsored daughter", Sonia at the camp. I met Sonia over three years ago at a hospital in Chichicastenango. Twelve year old Sonia was not expected to live as she was barely concious from kidney failure due to the disabling affects of polio which she had contracted as a 4 year old. Through prayer and God's grace Sonia survived and is now a robust happy and very active 16 year old, although still paraplegic. I have been sponsoring her in school over the last 2 years and now Bethel Ministries has taken over her support. PTL!!

Sonia, my "sponsored daughter" at Bethel Camp for the disabled

Myself and nurse co-worker Heather enjoyed a very meaningful week together meeting the medical needs of over 60 disabled young people as they in turn enjoyed the presence of the Lord and His healing power in their various situations.

Heather and myself serve as camp nurses at Bethel's temporary medical clinic for the disabled.

The biggest highlight of this past month was my return visit to Chichicastenango. I was invited to spend one morning in the ASELSI Father's Heart Clinic working in the Pharmacy, as their regular Pharmacist was on vacation. It was such a blessing working with the ASELSI staff again and renewing relationships with many. The day was topped off by a special American Thanksgiving dinner for the international staff members of ASELSI. What a delight! God is good and so gracious in all His ways.

American Thanksgiving dinner for the international staff at ASELSI

Kathy, my evangelist friend from Antigua, Guatemala, met me two days later and together we visited two different villages over the next four days, showing the "Jesus" movie and other evangelistic movies, influencing hundreds for the kingdom.

Evangelistic talk by Kathy following a film showing

Speaking at the church in Sepela before the film showing.

It was a special blessing to show the films in the village of Sepela and meet with the young ladies from my former discipleship class. They are all well and following the Lord with joy and enthusiasm.

Three girls from my discipleship class ran to meet me as I entered their village of Sepela

It was such a delight seeing them work together on refreshments for after the movie....chuchitos and hot chocolate! Nothing could be better on a cold evening in Sepela.

Making chuchitos (Guatemalan "hotdogs'" - small chucks of barbecued chicken in a tomato sauce, wrapped in a tortilla and steamed in a corn husk ).

Guatemalan hot chocolate cooked over an open wood stove (plancha).

Saying goodbye to "my girls", many of whom received the Lord in my discipleship class.

Just to add cream to the cake (so to speak), I was finally able to track down the one girl from my discipleship class who lived in Chichicastenango, 16 year old Juana. It was not easy as she has no family in Chichi. and so no fixed address. She usually just lives where she works as a cook or housekeeper. We had a wonderful reunion. It was such a blessing visiting with Juana knowing that she is still fervently following the Lord after accepting Him as her Saviour in my class about one year ago. God is SO good!!!

Juana and myself at her worksite as a cook and store assistant

And so ends my four years as a nurse evangelist to the indigenous of Guatemala. I thank God with a very grateful and humble heart for all that He has done both in me and through me in these very precious four years. I look forward with anticipation not only to reconnecting with my family in Canada (2010), but also to returning to Guatemala, God willing, in January 2011.

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to observe all things." Matthew 28:18

Whatever Happened to Evelyn and Rogelio?

2009-11-12T15:55:00.000-08:00

About 6 weeks ago I posted two blogs concerning the medical and surgical needs of Evelyn (see Sept.27). Evelyn Adelisa Bin Reyes required surgery for a heart murmur due to a small unclosed hole in her heart from infancy.

Evelyn Adelisa Bin Reyes, 5 years old, with a heart murmur.

And also of Rogelio (see Sept.19). Rogelio, the "soccer player", required surgery to correct his deformed right leg.

Rogelio Isem Sis, 8 years old, has a serious malformation of his right leg due to an ill fitting brace. Rogelio's big desire is to play soccer.

I am pleased to report that both children had successful surgery. Evelyn's heart defect was corrected by some of the best surgical heart doctors in Guatemala. She will be discharged soon and it is anticipated that she will now live a normal healthy life.

Evelyn the night before heart surgery.

Clara's mother was busy prior to surgery raising money through the local churches and Impact Ministries schools. The total cost of surgery seemed an insurmountable amount for a poor indigenous family. Personally, I felt it would be a "miracle" if the full sum was raised, but praise God, as all the family of God sacrificially pitched in to help with the cost the goal was met and the surgery obtained!! What a wonderful testimony of the love of God when the family of God works together on a common goal.

Clara and Evelyn the night before Evelyn's surgery.

Rogelio unfortunately had to have his right leg amputated below the knee. There was no possibility, at least here in Guatemala, of correcting his bone deformity.

Rogelio post op. below knee amputation for bone infection and deformity.

He has taken the surgery well, is happy and remains active with the help of crutches.

Rogelio with his temporary "peg leg" and crutches.

He is a real "go getter". Once his stump is well healed and strong, he will be fitted for a prosthesis and more than likely will be able to play soccer again, with his prosthesis. He also will be discharged soon.

Rogelio enjoying a pinata party in the Children's unit of the National Hospital in Guatemala City.

I visited both children in the two different hospitals, prayed with them and just loved on them. They were very excited to see me, a familiar person from Mocohan, their home town.
Clara, Evelyn's mom, was especially appreciative of the visit the night before surgery as I anointed Evelyn with oil for healing.
Please pray for these two children and their families for complete recovery and provision for all their needs. God bless you! Thank you for caring and praying!

"The Lord hears the prayers of the righteous." Proverbs 15:29

"It's Time To Go Home!"

2009-11-09T18:32:00.000-08:00

My home in Alberta - luxurious comfort compared to a rural Guatemalan home that never has a living room, carpet and almost no furniture except one or two beds for 6-8 people!

A typical home in rural Guatemala...usually one room, rustic kitchen may be outside in a lean-to structure, outside bathroom, may or may not have running water or electricity and often has a dirt floor. This is Jennifer's home, my sponsored child.

"Dear friends, family, supporters and prayer partners,

Greetings in Jesus name! I would like to say how blessed I've been with your support, prayers and love. God is good and has demonstrated His goodness through you. Thank you so much for co-laboring with me in this ripe harvest field of Guatemala . Your labor of love is not forgotten by God and much fruit will abound to your account!

It's been such a joy for me to serve here in Guatemala for the last four years, but it has not been without many trials as well. His refining process is perfect and to walk in His will and way brings peace. He has used me in an amazing way to touch the lives of so many people both here in Guatemala and also in Canada . I look back over the last four years and marvel at His hand and how He has orchestrated my life and ministry to be a blessing to many; calling in the harvest, healing the sick, encouraging the downtrodden, giving until it hurts and then giving some more. God has been so good and faithful but now, He is saying, "It's time to go home!". I will be returning home on December 3/09, just in time for Christmas!

"It's time to go home" to Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada for many reasons, but first and foremost because it is God's will and direction for me at present. In my heart I know God is saying His present work in and through me in Guatemala, at least for now, is complete but it's not finished. I have run the race and stayed the course. Now I am going home for a rest and to discover His will for me over the next year in Canada. This year will give me opportunity to reconnect with my family, friends and church, to reflect on God's future direction and also to maintain my Alberta Health Care which would have expired in January 2010. Alberta Health requires that full time missionaries return for one year once every four years in order to retain their health care benefits.

My desire is to return to Guatemala in January 2011, as there is still much work to be done. In fact, an overwhelming amount of work to be done. But for the time being I am finding rest in His will and look forward to at least a year of new discoveries with God in Canada. After a month of rest I will be looking for employment in January 2010 in the Lethbridge area.

It is somewhat with a sad heart that I am telling you this, but at the same time with much peace knowing that I am doing His will. I know the work that He has started in me will be perfected. He has promised this. He will also keep and guard His harvest here in Guatemala . I shall miss my work in Tactic with the Impact Ministry's Vida (Life) School in Mocohan which I have grown to love. Over the three months here I have completed the assessment of all the children in this village school, having referred many to the local health center or hospitals and seen the overall health and vigor of the students greatly improved. During this time individually or through pamphlets I've taught all the students, parents and teachers in basic health care and first aid. Two children have been referred for urgent surgery and one girl was spared a life of disability when sent to the hospital with a fractured leg. Many children received prayer, one boy gave his heart to the Lord, parents have been encouraged with love and hope and through it all God has been glorified and the people of Mocohan blessed.

A child of Mocohan,Yasmin, 6 1/2 years old and only 27 pounds when I first meet her has come a long way socially and physically! Three months ago Jasmin was very ill with worms, amebas, scabies, anemia and chronic malnutrion. She was one of the sickest children in the school and her mother seemed overwhelmed with the needs of the family and unable to properly care for Jasmin's health and emotional needs. With one-one teaching of the mother, much prayer and close supervision of Yasmin's health with appropriate medicine, Yasmin has become a smiley, happy, bright little girl, now ready to enter grade two. Yasmin was created by God's love for a purpose and now His purposes are starting to be fulfilled in her life.

My plans are to fly home to Canada on December 3. Meanwhile, during November, the last month I have in Guatemala, I will be completing my work here in Tactic with Impact Ministries, traveling to Chichicastenango to visit friends and say goodbyes to "my girls" from the young women's class that I discipled in my home in Chichi.. With my friend, Kathy, I will be doing an evangelistic weekend through film showings and preaching of the Word in Sepela, "my girls" home village near Chichi..

I will also spend another week volunteering as a counselor and support worker at a Christian camp for the disabled. My "sponsored daughter", Sonia (suffering from polio paralysis) will be attending as a participant. Sonia (15 years old) has been promoted to grade 5. An amazing accomplishment for a girl who only started school 2 years ago and was delivered from death by a miracle in 2006. Please pray for God's protection, anointing and divine leading during this month of evangelism (Nov.) in Guatemala.

Me with Sonia (15 years old) in her boarding school, attending grade four. Sonia is one of a very few disabled children in all of Guatemala, that has the privilege of attending school. I was instrumental in finding a school that would take Sonia inspite of her disability. She started school at 14 years of age.

I look back over God's goodness and faithfulness these last four years with much joy and thankfulness for the wonderful privilege of having served Him as His ambassador here in Guatemala through both ASELSI Ministries and Impact Ministries. PTL! I would appreciate your prayers as I transition back into life in Canada for the next year, until at least January 2011.

I would also greatly appreciate your ongoing financial support, if at all possible, until at least March 2010. That will give me a chance to rest, find work and receive my first pay check. For more information about how you can support me, please email me.

Thank you again to all my supporters, prayer partners and friends. I appreciate all that you have done for me to enable me to do the work of the kingdom here in Guatemala from Jan./06-Dec./09.

I pray for each of you that God will ever increase in your hearts and lives, that His blessings will overtake you and that you will find your complete hope, joy and purpose in Him. God bless you each and every one!

Much love in Jesus and thankfulness for your partnership,
Virginia Birss (Ginny)

Jennifer, "a little taste of Mocohan Guatemala", that I am taking back to Canada. I've commited to supporting Jennifer in the Mocohan Impact Ministries Life School as she enters grade one. Each child in the school ideally has a sponsor to pay for school costs, provide one meal a day, shoes, and medical and dental care if needed. Jennifer, after one year at school in the kindergarten class had not been sponsored yet which caused her some sadness. Since I've decided to be her sponsor, both her and her mother feel so blessed and are so thankful for the privilege of being "cared for" . If you would like to sponsor a child in one of the Impact Schools please log onto their website at: www.impactministries.ca

Jennifer with her mother, Aura near their home in Mocohan, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala - my sponsored child.

"All glory to Him, who alone is God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Yes, glory, majesty, power and authority belong to Him, in the beginning, now and forever more. Amen." Jude 25

A Mocohan School Day

2009-10-18T10:06:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Mocohan, Alta Verpaz, Guatemala!
I've been located at this school as school nurse for Impact Ministries since August, 2009. What a joy to participate in the lives of these precious Poqomchi Indian Children. As school is finished in one week with the graduation ceremonies on October 27, I thought I would share some photos taken of the children and school representing a day in the life of the teachers and myself at the school in the village of Mocohan.

Here goes:

Arrival of teachers and myself by school bus from Tactic, a half hour ride starting at 6:30 a.m, departure at 1:00 p.m. Three days a week the teachers stay later for home visits and class prep. time.

Children's devotional , half hour to 45 minutes of precious Spirit filled, anointed worship calling in the presence of God.

Weekly fluoride program given by myself.

Aydee teaching grade one.

Joyful faces of the kindergarten children working on mathematics.

Jose , the maintenance man, drawing clean water from the school well for breakfast prep.

Dedicated kitchen workers preparing breakfast.

Students enjoying breakfast!!

Good to the last lick!

Recreation time following breakfast and enjoyed by all!

More class time - grade two.

Myself attending to the needs of the sick children. Girl on my lap had been very ill with multiple problems two months before. Now she enjoys good health and increased weight, praise the Lord! (31 pounds and 6 1/2 years old)

Yearly fitting for new shoes which will be a Christmas present for each student.

Registration of students for next school year - January 2010 to late October 2010 - by secretary, Doris.

In the afternoons the teachers make home visits. This is a typical student home.

Prayer by teachers for a student's father who recently had surgery.

So this is all in the day of the students, teachers and myself at the Impact Ministry Vida (Life) School in the village of Mocohan, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala.
May the Lord bless you and inspire you to pray for this ministry and myself as spiritual, physical and educational transformation occurs in this village due to the presence of Impact Ministries Canada (click for more info.).

"Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it."
Proverbs 22:6

My First Two Months as School Nurse - Newsletter

2009-10-10T20:10:00.000-07:00

School nurse in the Impact Ministries Mocohan Vida (Life) School

On the road to Mocohan

Dear friends and family,

Greetings from Tactic, Guatemala! I do want to thank each one of you for your prayers and faithful support of my missionary medical work with Impact Ministries as a school nurse. I've now been in Tactic working with Impact Ministries for two months, although it seems in many ways much longer. I phoned my Mom yesterday and she informed me that I wasn't sending any newsletters. Sorry!!! I just assumed that people were reading my blog: (click here)... Virginia in Guatemala. But for those of you who don't have access to the computer or haven't yet ventured into the "blog spirit" here is a short report of all that has happened in the last two months.

I must say since I arrived here August 1, the time has gone by in a whirlwind of intense activity including setting up house: being sick with a cold, sinusitis and ear infection and finally recovering; helping with two different medical outreaches both stationed in the new Impact Ministries clinic; developing a school medical program at the Mocohan Vida (Life) School (5 mornings/week), as well as attending to the needs of sick high school kids 2 afternoons a week, and the needs of children and parents attending Impact's after school outreach in San Antonio one afternoon a week. In between time I fit in clinic work, prep. work, charting and other activities to keep all the programs running smoothly. I've had opportunity also to prepare first aid kits for all six schools and teach a short first aid class to the directors and secretaries of the schools, as well as accompany several children to outpatient clinics at two different hospitals about half an hour from Tactic. My day starts at 5:00 am. when I get up and is a whirlwind of activity until bedtime at 9:00 pm. Whew!! That's my life in a nutshell! Weekends I try to keep up with communication, blogs, shopping and making meals for the week.

I have been enjoying getting to know many people from Impact Ministries "River of Life" Church here in Tactic including having several people over for supper as well as having invitations to supper. The Guatemalan people have been very gracious and open. I especially love my next door neighbours, a young couple who are both school teachers with Impact Ministries. I walk to and from the bus every day with them as they accompany me to school. Esvin works in the Mocohan school with me and his wife Pati works in the neighbouring Chicoy school. I've also made friends with a couple of middle age Guatemalan ladies from the church and visit them frequently for "coffee" as they tell their tales of life in Tactic 40-50 years ago when some of the first missionaries came.

I live in one of Impact Ministries modern guest houses and have one large bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, plus a kitchen, living room and dining room for my own personal use. I do share my living space with some short term team members when they come and have had several couples plus some young ladies visit up to 10 days at a time. Impact does the cooking for the teams (no extra work there!). To keep myself and the cockroaches entertained and to keep the mice at bay I've got myself a 2 month old black and white kitty!

Although the transition from Chichicastenango to Tactic has been difficult in many ways, I am beginning to feel comfortable in my new setting and "home town". We've had several cultural events since my arrival including the annual "Tactic Days" week long festival (Aug.7-14), Independence Day (Sept.15) and Children's Day (Oct.1). Guatemalan's love celebrating. In fact they don't need a Thanksgiving Day because they celebrate any special event with a "Thanksgiving Day" (Dia de Gracia). I attended one such event celebrating the anniversary of the opening of a Christian owned butcher shop and God's blessing on their business! I drank their traditional chunky beef-tomato cream soup out of my bowl and ate the meat chunks with my fingers. This is also cultural... no cutlery!!! And so goes life in Tactic!

God has been very good in providing for all my needs, healing me, giving me friends as well as enabling me with strength and wisdom to do the work set before me. It's been such a blessing to have this opportunity to serve in the Mocohan school and Impact Ministries as their nurse and to be a part of the transformation taking place in this community because of Christ. Thank you for your prayers and love. Without you I wouldn't be here. You are an integral part of this work and I truly thank you for all you have done for me and for the children and community I serve. May you be blessed as you bless others! Bless you!!!!

Please write or email sometime. I would love to hear from you!
Love in Jesus,
Virginia (Ginny) Birss

Independence Day Parade, Sept.15

"Dia de Gracia" ... no cutlery ... Esvin and Pati eating polick with their fingers

Impact Ministries Clinic Outreach Sept. 29-30

2009-10-09T17:36:00.000-07:00

Last week was an incredibly blessed week as Impact Ministries hosted a Christian group of four Guatemalan doctors along with a team from Kamloops B.C., Canada to do an intensive two days of medical outreach to the local community and to church members from the distant community of Parachuch.

Parachuch is located a good one hour+ drive from Tactic over rough mountain roads and in the Indian language area of Achi. The people there are desperately poor and came with great need. Impact Ministries has been helping the community build a church. What a blessing to see the kingdom of God advance.

For two days we were packed to overflowing as everyone worked to the maximum to attend to the great variety of needs presented from both the Tactic area and the group from Parachuch.

The Guatemalan team came with two doctors,

a dentist

and an optician.

The Kamloops team provided pharmacy,

laboratory and skilled paramedical support.

What a great team we were, all working together for the glory of God and the health of the community. A special "thank you" to the Guatemalan doctors and the Kamloops team for making this medical outreach possible.

I was able to bring some sick children from the Mocohan Vida (Life) school to also have a time of consultation with the doctors.

I'm thankful that Evelyn Bin Reyes, the 4 year old with the heart murmur, came. She was quite ill with bronchitis and the following day was scheduled to be in the heart hospital in Guatemala City for an exam. I wasn't sure if she was well enough to make the trip, but due to prayer and the intervention of medical care, she recovered and did make the long 4 hour trip. PTL!

Evelyn has her open heart surgery scheduled for November 10. Please continue to pray for Evelyn, for her healing and for the surgery. Pray for peace in her mother's heart, Clara, as well. It has been a very stressful six weeks for her since Evelyn was diagnosed with this heart condition.

Clara, Evelyn and myself in the medical clinic. Please pray with us for a successful surgery.

"Freely you have received, freely give." Matthew 10:8

Evelyn, Oscar and Mayra

2009-09-27T18:33:00.000-07:00

Rogelio Isem Sis requires surgery on his right leg.

Last week I introduced you to Rogelio, the soccer player! Rogelio has seen the orthopedic doctors in Guatemala City. There is some hope that his right leg can be saved but it will cost over $1,000. Money the family does not have. His leg may need to be amputated.

This week I would like to introduce you to some more very special children in need of surgical care.

First there is Evelyn, a sweet 5 year old in kindergarten at the Impact Vida School in Mocohan. Evelyn is small for her age, tires easily and is frequently sick.

Evelyn Adelisa Bin Reyes, 5 years old, requires surgery for a hole in the heart.

On physical exam I discovered that she had an undetected heart murmur. Her mother was very surprised. But yes, after an exam by a pediatrician it was true. Her mother was crying and said "if she dies, I'll die with her". She couldn't bear the thought of her little girl possibly dying early. Evelyn goes to Guatemala City this week for a special heart test and then discussion regarding surgery. How can a family living on $5 a day possibly pay for very specialized tests and trips, let alone surgery. This could amount to a few thousand dollars and even with a reduction in rate through social services the bill could be $1,000 or more. A few weeks later on a routine physical exam of her sister, it was discovered that her sister may also have a heart defect. What a challenge for this family, but nothing is too big for God!

Typical home of a student who attends the Mocohan Vida School.

Next there is Oscar and Mayra. Both Oscar and Mayra have vision problems. Oscar has crossed eyes and a "lazy" eyelid.

Oscar Jeremias Caal Xol, 6 years old, requires surgical correction on his eye.

Mayra is almost blind in one eye due to an accident 8 years ago.

Mayra Leticia Cahuec Caal, may need eye surgery to correct near blindness in one eye.

Neither child has seen a doctor concerning the condition of their eyes. The families just don't have the money. Impact is looking into how best to help these children and others with serious needs as well. Needs that will hamper their potential to learn, work and live productive lives. Next week four children from the Impact School in Mocohan will be receiving professional examination and consultation with opthamologists in the Regional Hospital in San Cristobal, about half an hour from Tactic.

The needs seem to be endless, but each child is precious to God's heart, and even though the needs are great, God's heart is greater.

Poqomchi boys in traditional dress at the Independence Day parade, Sept. 15

Please if you are able, consider giving to the medical fund, so Rogelio, Evelyn, Oscar, Mayra and others can receive the surgical and medical care they deserve. Click on this site to find out how you can donate to these special children's needs through ... Impact Ministries. Designate your donation to "Medical Needs".

Typical Poqomchi family living in Mocohan, proudly displaying their garden!

"In as much as ye have done it for the least of these, you have done it unto Me."
Matthew 25:40

Rogelio Isem Sis a Soccer Player!

2009-09-19T20:03:00.000-07:00

Rogelio at his aunt's house in Mocohan

It was still dark when the van stopped by in Tactic to pick me up. We were on our way to the Regional Hospital in Coban to hopefully obtain an orthopedic consult concerning Rogelio's bent right leg carefully protected by a too small brace. Rogelio and his parents plus the driver were already in the van. They had been picked up in Mocohan half an hour earlier having walked out to the highway from the village.

Rogelio with his mom and dad beside the Vida (Life) Impact School in Mocohan.

When we arrived in Coban at 6:15 am there was already a lineup of other hopeful patients, curving around 2 sides of the hospital, all waiting for the doctors arrival at 8:00am. Some had been there for hours. All quietly waiting while watching the sun rise. This was the Outpatient Line and today the orthopedic doctors would be arriving.

Line up at the Regional Hospital in Coban 6:30 a.m. Sunrise!

Rogelio an active 8 year old Poqomchi boy who attends the Impact School in Mocohan has only one bone in his right lower leg.

Rogelio's right lower leg with only one curved bone.

Usually there are two. One was removed when he was 2 years old due to a serious infection of the bone. He was fitted with a brace sometime after his surgery. He wore that brace until it was too small. Two years ago he was fitted with another brace. This brace again became too small, but because he had outgrown his crutches and his loved to run and play soccer, he chose not to remove the brace. His parents couldn't afford another brace or crutches. His bone continued to grow until it was bent like a bow. The tips of his toes fit his boot, now two years old, but his heel stuck out. That's how he ran and played, with his leg twisted!

Rogelio's out grown brace!

Inspite of the pain, he refused to give up and just sit around. His desire was to be like the other boys. He just wanted to play. He walked about a mile with this brace out to the road. He's a fighter!

Rogelio with his aunt and mother. Rogelio lives with his aunt in Mocohan because his village is too remote. It is a one hour arduous walk up a mountain. There are no roads to hisvillage. Rogelio's dad is a subsistence farmer. There are 8 children in the family. In Mocohan he lives only one block from the Vida School and can attend daily.

Rogelio lives with his aunt, uncle, cousins and grandmother in this house in Mocohan.

Now at the hospital his future will be decided by the doctors. I believe it was a God ordained encounter, when finally at 10:30am we got to go in to see the orthopedic doctor. He recognized Rogelio from his surgery at two years of age in the National Hospital in Guatemala City! It was such a unique surgery who could forget. Dr. Marlon was very concerned and chastised the father for not bringing him in sooner. Now he may loose his leg. The father apologized but what could he do. They didn't have the $40 to continue taking the bus in and out of The City for follow up appointments, much less a new brace! After xrays, Dr. Marlon conferred with the other orthopedic doctor and thought that maybe something could be done to save his leg.

Rogelio's right leg xrays

After all the joints and foot still seemed to be in fairly good condition. The bone was curved, but still strong. Perhaps it could be straightened. So maybe, just maybe, Rogelio will not loose his leg. Please pray for him. He goes for an orthopedic consult at the National Hospital in Guatemala City on Monday, plus more follow up appointments within the next few weeks to discuss his potential surgery.

Rogelio will need help though with the cost of either a new brace or a prosthesis depending on what is decided on Monday. He will also need financial help to travel with his parents numerous times back and forth to Guatemala City, a four hour bus ride, plus some overnight stays in The City, plus more xrays and tests.

If you would like to help with Rogelio's medical expenses please send a donation to Impact Ministries at: www.impactministries.ca and designate for "Medical Expenses".

Keep a smile on Rogelio's face and lets keep him playing soccer! Thank you and bless you for caring!

"Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did it for Me."
Matthew 25:40

First Aid and Health Fair

2009-09-14T20:35:00.000-07:00

First aid class of directors and secretaries from the six Vida schools with their first aid boxes

Last week was an interesting week as I taught a mini first aid class to the directors and secretaries of the 6 Impact Ministry's Life (Vida) Christian Schools. Each school received a first aid kit and small medicine box, a first for the Impact Schools. As I struggled through my Spanish to explain how to apply a splint or give Tylenol, my students all graciously accommodated me and I'm sure took home a few new ideas to use on their ailing students.

Two days later, I had a health screening booth at the Mocohan Vida school Independence Day celebrations. Sure enough, wouldn't you know, a student from the neighboring Chicoy Vida school showed up with a tensor bandage on his sprained wrist. I guess they really did understand after all!

Mocohan school children celebrate Independence Day (officially Sept.15)

The Independence Day celebration at the school was a lot of fun.

Teachers of the Mocohan Vida School dressed in their finest traditional clothing

Everyone wore their finest traditional clothing, a variety of cultural cuisine was available for only 15 cents a serving and numerous booths offered everything from ring toss, to dress the kitty, to hairstyling plus my health fair table.

Hairstyling for 15 cents each!

I screened over 50 people for high blood pressure, discussed their health issues and gave out many health teaching pamphlets as well as prayed for a few concerned individuals.

Screening for high blood pressure at the health fair booth

Some of the titles included diarrhea, scabies, tooth brushing and the importance of good hygiene and a balanced diet all very serious health issues in this area. What we take for granted is often a huge health obstacle for these people as they battle with a contaminated water supply, a dirty environment, poverty and lack of health education and resources. These all compound to make life very tenuous at times. Many children don't live past their first five years. Older children often live with compromised health due to intestinal parasites, anemia and skin infections among other problems. My job, on a health level, is to assist these children to experience the best health possible so that their education is not jeopardized. Spiritually, I pray for them, listen to their concerns, lead them to the Lord and let them know that Jesus loves them.
How special is each one!

"Let the little children come to Me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19:14

San Antonio Outreach

2009-09-10T19:49:00.000-07:00

Village of San Antonio

San Antonio is a small desperately poor and needy village about 20 minutes drive north of Tactic. Impact Ministries has had a children's after school program established in this village for many years now.

Children's service in San Antonio

For a long time, because of their resistance to the gospel and the division and fighting within the village, little fruit was seen. But recently Rita Peters, Impact's codirector, was told by one of the villagers that since Impact has had a ministry in San Antonio, there has been more peace and less fighting in the village.

afterschool program snack time

When I made my first trip to Guatemala and Impact Ministries in 2003, I visited this village to assist with the same program. Since then I have noticed a significant increase in numbers, especially of youth and mothers, not just children.

Mother's seeking counsel from pastoral assistant Rene

Now Impact has a very active, busy and fruitful ministry as lives are being saved and rescued from destruction by the Lord.

Many young boys and teens are happy to be a part of the program, their lives having been rescued from destruction

As my work at Mocohan school is from 6:30am-1:40pm, I have time in the afternoons to be involved in other programs. For two weeks now I have visited the after school children's program at San Antonio. The poverty and need are heart wrenching.

snack time for everyone

Today I examined two ladies who had come for a medical consult, Maria Jr. and her mother Maria. Younger Maria, 50 years old, had a stroke and is paralyzed on her left side. Her mother, blind in one eye, burned herself 2 months ago on her open fire stove and because of very dirty home conditions has now got an infected wound on her arm.

The 2 Maria's, myself and my assistant

It was such a blessing to be able to share the love of Jesus with hands on nursing care to these two wonderful ladies. Kisses on the cheek were in order as we said our goodbyes.

Fragile mother Maria, a widower, takes care of her only daughter, Maria Jr., who now has difficulty walking and needs daily help. I wonder what will happen with Maria Jr. should her mother pass away. There is no social welfare program or old age security in Guatemala. Life is very difficult for the poor and even more difficult for those without large strong families to help. Please pray for both of our Maria's health and for the program in San Antonio. Pray also for peace and unity in the village and that the youth will find hope in Christ, turning from drugs and rebellion.

"The people living in darkness have seen a great light." Matthew 4:16

Weddings and baptisms

2009-08-30T20:11:00.000-07:00

What a blessing to witness a double wedding two weeks ago. This was not an ordinary wedding, but a wedding of two couples that had been living common-law, had children and decided to make their lives right before the Lord, asking His blessing on their marriage. What a wonderful sight to see these two couples commit themselves to each other, for better or worse, to faithfully love each other in a country where adultery is rampant and fathers are often abusive, absent or non-existent.

double wedding

The following week these two husbands plus 7 other men and women dedicated their lives to the Lord through baptism.

baptism candidates giving their testimonies

A total of nine people made a bold statement of faith to their families and communities that they are wholly committed to the Lord in following and serving Him. How gracious our God is, by demonstrating His love towards us in giving us Christ as our Savior. What a joy to see these mature men and women of God give themselves wholeheartedly to Him.

Les and Rita Peters, pastors of the Rio de Vida (River of Life) Church in Tactic, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala and founders and directors of Impact Ministries, through the power of the Holy Spirit have been transforming the lives of the Poqomchi and Kekchi Indians of the Tactic area for almost 10 years now. Pray for this dedicated couple and their growing ministry to the 1,000 children of the Impact schools and their parents.

God bless you Les and Rita! "Faithful is He who called you, who also will do it! " 1 Thes.5:24

My first week in Mocohan Life Christian School

2009-08-23T19:46:00.000-07:00

Hi! Well I've completed my first week in the Mocohan Life Christian School of Impact Ministries. My role as school nurse was stretched as I realized the enormity of some of my little charges health problems.

The village of Mocohan (about 800 people) is located 25 minutes drive south of Tactic. It is very poor. Many homes have no water or electricity. Many of the homes are one room with a dirt floor. Most are built of wood and some have a thatched roof. Many of the children do not have a father in the home or live in abusive home situations. Life is very difficult for them with many families living day to day not knowing if they'll have enough money for food tomorrow. The Impact Ministries, Life School was started here 2 years ago, by invitation of the village when land was given to them to build.

I leave home at 6:25 a.m. each morning to catch the Impact School bus which transports the teachers from the Tactic area to three rural schools, Chichoy, Mocohan and Purulah. The scenery is beautiful and affords a wonderful opportunity to spend time with the Lord. First we pass by Chichoy and drop off about 8 teachers and then head onto Mocohan on a very rough, muddy, slippery road. Mocohan and Chicoy are very close, only about 5 minutes apart depending on the road conditions. Ten of us disembark before the bus heads onto Purulah with the remaining teachers.

The school day starts at 7:00am as the teachers and myself gather for a half hour of team devotions and prayer.

This special time is then followed by 45 minutes of student devotions which start around 8:00 a.m. The children just sing their hearts out as they worship the Lord, followed by sincere prayer and a devotional story.

Classes begin around 8:45. There are 4 grades plus kindergarten at the Mocohan School. Next year the grade 5 class will be added. Although most of the children in kindergarten are around 5-6 years old, as the grades advance the age span gets more diverse. This is due to the fact that many children did not have opportunity to start school at 5 years old and may not have started until they were around 10 or so. Others may have had one grade of school in the public system and then dropped out and so are trying it again in a different environment. And so, in grades 3 and 4 you may find children as old as 14. The children love school and are enthusiastic about learning. They also love to play, soccer being the popular sport with the boys and skip rope with the girls. Of course eating is top on their list of favorites too! A meal is served at 10:00 as many children have come to school without breakfast. This one meal may be their only substantial meal of the day.

In my first week I was able to assess several children and saw diverse problems. One five year old was only 26 pounds, anemic and malnourished.! Some children have heart problems and one requires surgery for a murmur. Rogelio, almost 8 years old, has a very serious deformity of his lower leg and has worn the same boot and brace for 2 years!!! You can imagine what this must do to growing bones! He urgently needs an orthopedic assessment and possible surgery. Please pray for finances to cover these consultative and surgical needs.

Several children had colds and gastric problems. In fact gastric problems are very common due to drinking the untreated muddy tap water that I found out has giardia (beaver fever), and amebas plus other parasites. No wonder the children have gastic problems! One girl returned twice in one day with a bleeding nose. Another child needs surgery for crossed eyes.
They keep coming, more each day! As a reward each child gets a smiley face sticker when they see me. How proud they are of their stickers!!

All the children love hugs and are very ready to run up to me with hugs as well. What a wonderful way to start and end a day and a week!! And so ends my first week at work as school nurse of the Mocohan School. Please pray for wisdom as I minister to the medical and spiritual needs of these precious Pokomchi Mayan Indian children. It is such a privilege to serve each one in the wonderful name of our Lord Jesus Christ and impart His love to them.

"Heal the sick that are there and tell them the kingdom of God is among them." Luke 10:9

My First Two Weeks in Tactic

2009-08-14T20:45:00.000-07:00

On a coffee farm near Tactic

Rita's birthday (Impact Ministry co-director)

Well I've been in Tactic for 2 weeks now and have finally settled into my new home, seen 2 short term teams come and go and have assisted a short term medical team in our new Impact Ministries Life Clinic. It's been both exciting and challenging. Each day is full of new surprizes (like the plumber attempting to do repairs without turning off the water - yikes!) and many wonderful opportunities to make new friends. Here's a few photos.

First day at the new medical clinic

Fun with new Poqomchi friends during clinic assessment

Evangelism and construction team from Merrit, B.C. (in front of my apartment)

Praise and worship with Rita's 2 adopted Haitan boys, Johny and Jeremy

This Monday, August 17, I will be starting my new job as a school nurse in the Mocohan Impact Ministries School. I'm looking forward to this new adventure in faith and ministry as I "love on" these little ones, most from very poor and abusive homes, and attend to their physical, emotional and spiritual needs.

Students worshiping the Lord at the Mocohan School

Please join me in prayer that I might have wisdom in my work and that Jesus' love might bring healing to many.

"Heal the sick that are there and tell them the kingdom of God is among them." Luke 10:9

GUATEMALA NEWS -- "It's a New Day!"

2009-08-02T19:52:00.001-07:00

photo: the Central Plaza in Guatemala City

Dear family and friends,

It's a new day!! July 29 I finally returned to Guatemala to begin my new ministry position with Impact Ministries Canada as their first full time medical worker, school and clinic nurse. I thank God for this wonderful opportunity and privilege to serve Him in Tactic, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala.

Photo: Tactic Valley, Alta Verapaz

I have just finished a 2 1/2 month sabbatical in Canada which went very quickly and included two fundraising tours to Edmonton AB and Vancouver, BC. as well as many wonderful times with family and friends. Thank you to all of you who made my stay in Canada very memorable and rewarding. Thank you to God for His faithfulness in financial provision through many of you. Your work and labor of love, in partnering with me in the harvest of Guatemala will not go unnoticed by God. May you be greatly blessed as you continue to bless the indigenous people of this country by supporting and praying for me.

photo: my new home in Tactic, the guest house apartment of Impact Ministries

I am now settling into my new home, an apartment in the guest house. Yesterday was a day of scrubbing and cleaning. This next week will be unpacking, organizing and getting orientated to Tactic. By the end of the week I should be ready to start my first assignment, assessing the needs of the school children in the Mocohan School, the poorest and neediest village school about 20 minutes drive from Tactic.

Photo: Mocohan Impact Ministry School, site of my first school nurse assignment.

The following week I will be assisting with a Canadian doctor and his medical team to do mobile medical clinics in outlying villages. Please pray during this time of transition in both moving and establishing this new school and clinic medical ministry for Impact Ministries. Pray that all will be done for the glory of God and His kingdom advancement here in this tiny, but very needy corner of Guatemala among the Poqomchi Indians. Remember, "He who gives to the poor, gives to the Lord and he himself will be blessed". (Proverbs)

May God bless you! It was such a pleasure visiting with many of you during my time in Canada. I pray that He will continue to bless, increase and give favor to each one of you.

Please do email or write. I would love to keep in touch with you.
Mailing address: Virginia Birss,
Ministerios Impacto,
Km. 184.5, Carretera a Coban,
Tactic, Alta Vera Paz,
Guatemala, C.A.

Love in Jesus,
Virginia (Ginny) Birss

July 19/09 Our majestic Waterton Park in the Canadian Rockies

2009-07-30T20:54:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share with you our wonderful family day at Waterton Park. The most beautiful park in the Canadian Rockies!!
Here we are on the shores of Lake Cameroon which at its far end borders on Alberta, B.C. and the USA.

My beautiful baby Bella on the shores of Cameroon Lake with her proud Grammy!

And here is Waterton Lake. Beautiful isn't it!! Eva had great fun throwing rocks.

Thanks Stephen and Kindra for an awesome family day full of wonderful family memories.

Trip to Vancouver July 7-15

2009-07-22T12:29:00.000-07:00

On July 7 I left Lethbridge, Alberta for a one week visit with family and friends in Vancouver, B.C. all the while fund raising both going and returning. Here is a photo of my wonderful friends and supporters, Mike and Brenda Corbett, who hosted me at an informational night in the Claresholm Victory Church, Alberta. Thanks Brenda for your gracious hospitality and Guatemalan gourmet delights.

The next day I travelled to Calgary and was delighted by a surprize meal and ladies get together at Alice Smedes home, another very faithful supporter. Thank you Alice for your prayers and friendship over the years.

One highlight of my trip to Vancouver was the gift of attending a "Soaking School" for 2 days in Abbotsford, B.C. where my friend, Holly Wiens and two other ladies, helped us to experience the presence of God in a very special way. Wow what a wonderful event! In this photo Holly is teaching about "The Bride of Christ". That's us the church!

Another highlight was meeting with old friends that I hadn't seen for years. Evie Hunter I first meet in 1969 when I started attending St. Margaret's Church in Vancouver (now called West Coast Fellowship) during the Jesus People days! Evie has had a huge impact on my spiritual life and still impacts people today with her joy, faith, worshipful spirit and compassion. Evie what a blessing you have been to me! God bless you, your family and grandchildren!

I also had the opportunity to visit with George and Ann Tk. Also long time friends from the Jesus People days. Unfortunately I don't have a picture to show. We had a great time reminiscing together while viewing old photos. I look forward to meeting many more former Jesus People on my next trip to Vancouver, hopefully in 2010. What an exciting period of time that was in all our lives (House of Daniel 1969-1971+).

Next I spent 2 delightful days at my brother Geof's home in Langley visiting his family and having a great time together. Here Geof is playing mini golf with his grand kids (my grand nephews!). It was rather rambunctous as everyone vied for the ball more like in a grass hockey event than golf!!

As the trip to Vancouver came to an end, we spent a delightful afternoon at White Rock beach, where we as children used to visit frequently on long lazy summer days digging sandcastles, gathering seashells and swimming in the warm tide pools. Here's a photo of Geof and I, fifty years later!!

For those of you not familiar with North American Aboriginal totem poles here are two that have been preserved in a memorial park in White Rock. The totems tell stories about the Native Indian's family and mythology.

The trip to Vancouver was a very special holiday down memory lane. A highlight of my time here in Canada!
My sabbatical comes to a close in one week when I fly back to Guatemala on July 29 to resume my medical missionary work with Impact Ministries. I thank the Lord for all the wonderful old and new friends that I have made or renewed contact with during the last 2 1/2 months.
Reuniting with my children, grandchildren, brother and sisters and parents and church family has been so special and truly the most rewarding highlight of my visit to Canada.
Thank you especially to Stephen and Kindra for your generous hospitality and most delicious meals. I will always remember your kindness to me. You have been very gracious and loving hosts. God bless you!

Virginia's Canadian Journies - Newsletter - July 5/09

2009-07-05T19:14:00.000-07:00

Dear friends, family and supporters,
God bless you each and every one! I hope this finds you all well and enjoying our lovely Canadian summer (thunderstorms and all!!). Happy belated Canada Day!

I just want to bring you up to date, as I only have 3 1/2 weeks left here at home in Canada. I will be returning to Guatemala (July 29) and may not get another newsletter out before I go. So you'll hear from me next in Guatemala unless you keep up with my blog (weekly news) at "Virginia in Guatemala"

The time has gone very quickly and been packed with numerous visits to friends and churches. May 31 - June 4 was an especially happy time as my extended family all met together (siblings and families) for a barbeque, visit to Calgary Zoo, and celebration of both my own and my sister Carolyn's birthdays (61 and 58 years respectively). It was wonderful getting together as a family after about 5-6 years apart. Carolyn in Uganda (Anglican missionary), Geof in Langley and my youngest sister in Coaldale.

I did a presentation of my work in my home church on June 14 and then following that went on a road tour to north of Edmonton to share about my work in Guatemala. The highlights of the trip were visiting with my son and daughter in law, Shawn and Kate in Edmonton and getting to experience first hand their community house and church/ministry aimed to the alternative population in the Old Strathcona area of Edmonton. I was so blessed to meet their core group and their community members, sharing with them in their Saturday church service and brunch. Another high light was the 3 day Victory Church Family Camp held near Onoway, Alberta. As a creative and fun fund raiser one gentleman sold rides on his dune buggy dubbed "Rides for Jesus". I love it when God gives us creative ideas. Traveling further north, I visited friends from the Jesus People days whom I hadn't seen in about 15 years. It was fun reminiscing!

Here's a photo of the provincial parliament building in Edmonton. It's very close to Shawn's house.

Thursday this past week I spoke briefly at the Lethbridge Rotary Club, sharing through a power point, the work of Impact Ministries and my new position as school nurse. July 7-15 I will be doing another fund raising trip, starting with a church in Claresholm on Tuesday evening and then traveling to Calgary and flying (on free airmiles!) to Abbotsford, B.C. (near Vancouver, B.C.). In Abbotsford I will be attending a conference and making some personal and perhaps group presentations, as well as visiting my brother and some old friends. I'm looking forward to this trip and would ask your prayers for favor and blessing (financially and spiritually).

I am well below my goal for a good used vehicle to be used in my work and also have need of many more supporters to significantly raise my monthly support level. If you feel like you would like to make a donation, begin monthly support or increase your present support, please contact me for more information. You can send post-dated checks to my church Dominion GateWay Center or set up pre-authorized monthly debit payments through Impact Ministries (www.impactministries.ca) . For more information re: sponsorship through Impact Ministries you can log onto my BLOG: click here: Virginia in Guatemala and then click on the sponsorship icon at the top of the site. On my blog you can also view the most recent DVD of my ministry and view a slide show (power point), the same ones that I am using for my presentations.

Please do keep in touch. I would love to hear from you. And do take the time to visit my blog for photos and recent happenings. If you would like to get together for coffee before I return to Guatemala for another year, please give me a call. I still have lots of time in the last week, July 15-28 to plan a visit.

Thank you to each of you for your interest, support and prayers. Without you, I wouldn't be in Guatemala. I would like to bless you with a prayer from 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17. "May our Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father, who loved us and in his special favor gave us everlasting comfort and good hope, comfort your hearts and give you strength in every good thing you do and say." Be blessed in our Lord. God bless you!! and THANKYOU!!

Love in Jesus,
Virginia (Ginny) Birss

Backyard barbeque with Kindra and Stephen

Trip to Fort Assiniboine and back

2009-07-01T19:30:00.000-07:00

Hi, Happy Canada Day!!!
Just wanted to let you know that I had a most exciting trip, June 16-28, from Lethbridge (my home town) through Claresholm, Calgary, Red Deer, Edmonton and to Fort Assiniboine and Whyte Court, Alberta visiting friends, family and church groups, and sharing about my work in Guatemala.

It was so enjoyable to visit some friends that I haven't seen for years and to spend almost a week experiencing my son, Shawn's new community house and ministry to the alternative population in the Old Strathcona area of Edmonton.

One really fun part of this adventure was attending the Victory Church Family Camp for 3 days near Onoway, Alberta. A very creative way of raising money for my missions endeavors was initiated at this camp...the "Ride for Jesus" where a gentleman rented out his dune buggy and gave all the proceeds to help towards the cost of my ministry vehicle in Guatemala. Thank you Richard. PTL for your creative idea!

Thank you to Shawn, Kate and all my friends, new and old for your kind hospitality and support of my work. You have blessed me greatly. I love you all!! In blessing me you have blessed the people of Guatemala! May God bless you greatly in return.

Missions presentation

2009-06-14T16:45:00.000-07:00

In spite of butterflies in my stomach, God came through with His anointing and presence as I gave a video and power point presentation today in my church, highlighting my missions work in Guatemala. Many commented on how they liked the presentation. It was a blessing to receive a generous freewill offering from the congregation. I am so thankful for the loving care and prayerful support of my pastor and church family at Dominion GateWay Center.

Prayer by the elders

If you would like to see the 5 minute video please click on the play button.

Stephen and Kindra with my grandchildren came as my cheering section. Thanks Stephen and Kindra for your many hours of work on the video and power point! It was fun participating in the development of these works of art.

Grammies girls

I hope you enjoy the video! You will find it is informative about Guatemala and Impact Ministries. God bless you for your interest and prayers.

Road Trip to Fort Assiniboine June 16-27

2009-06-13T10:52:00.000-07:00

Just want to let you know that I'm planning a road trip through Alberta to meet friends and visit churches from Claresholm, to Calgary, Red Deer, Edmonton and Fort Assiniboine.

Here is my itinerary:

Claresholm - June 16 morning (friend)
Calgary - June 16 - 17 (friend and women's group in evening)
Red Deer - June 17 afternoon (friends)
Edmonton - June 17-23 (includes Victory Family Camp near Edmonton and visit with my son and daughter in law, Shawn and Kate)
Fort Assiniboine June 23-25 (speak in church June 23 evening and visit with friends)
Edmonton - June 25-27 (Shawn's church)

Please pray for me during this time of travel, visiting and fundraising.

I will be speaking at Domionion GateWay Church, in Lethridge, Alberta on June 14 at 10:00am. You are invited! God bless you!

Fun Family Memories

2009-06-05T11:45:00.000-07:00

The Langford siblings together at last!
Geof, Carolyn, Kathy and Ginny.

This past week was action packed family week with many fun activities planned each day from May 31 to
June 4.

Four generations, Kindra, my mom and my 2 grandchildren

Family reunion and picnic

Nephews

Birthday girls!

The most wonderful part of the week was the opportunity to celebrate together both my own and my sister, Carolyn's birthday. We have not seen each other for four years due to our respective missions work in Uganda and Guatemala. But the more amazing thing is I don't think we've celebrated a birthday together since I was around 16 years of age!

So this week with my birthday on June 1 (61 years!) and Carolyn's on June 4 (58 years!), it enabled us to celebrate together on family reunion day (May 31) and throughout the week.

Carolyn, my sister Kathy, her family, my brother Geof, my mom and stepdad and my own children all enjoyed this special family time, experiencing in a gentle way the healing of relationships, through the blessing of God our Father.

Leona, Matthew, Daniel, Denton and Kathy

Geof and Carolyn

Monday, my birthday was celebrated with a delicious BBQ hamburger bash at my (Stephen and Kindra's) home.

Tuesday we spent a delightful day at the Calgary Zoo and then said goodbye to Geof as he boarded the plane for Abbotsford.

Here's Kate and Shawn having fun at the Elephant exhibit!

Thursday, Carolyn's birthday was celebrated with a trip to the museum and then an awesome buffet supper at the Guest House. Carolyn returns to Ottawa to start parish work as an Anglican priest this August after having spent 3 1/2 years in Uganda as a dean of a college.

I thank God for His grace and love that we can experience through family.
May His blessing rest on each one.

Family Day - Dedication and Reunion

2009-05-31T21:28:00.000-07:00

Today was a special family day as Isabella Gabrielle Birss was dedicated to the Lord by my son, Pastor Shawn from Edmonton.

Isabella, second daughter of Stephen and Kindra was born Jan.7/09. Isabella Gabrielle means "God is my vow, God is my strength". May you be greatly blessed baby Bella as you grow up in the strength of the Lord.

Today was also our annual family reunion. Carolyn, my sister who has just returned from 3 years in Uganda as a missionary and Geof my brother from Langley, B.C. as well as my sister Kathy, her husband and family from Coaldale, AB and my mom and step dad all joined us for a wonderful, fun family picnic. It's great to be home on sabbatical to celebrate together as a family on this special day.

This following photo is my family - my oldest son, Shawn and his wife Kate, and my second son Stephen and his wife Kindra with my two lovely granddaughters Eva Jade and Isabella. Shawn and Kate are pastors of a downtown church in Edmonton, AB. Stephen works in construction and Kindra is a teacher.

God bless my family!

Where Is Tactic?

2009-05-30T12:45:00.000-07:00

,I thought I might inform you as to where Impact Ministries, Tactic, Alta Verapaz (AVP), Guatemala is in relation to my last volunteer nurse job at ASELSI in Chichicastenango., El Quiche.

Tactic is located about 1/2 hour south of Coban, AVP on the highway to Coban. It takes about 8 hours to drive from Chichicastenango to Tactic, going through Guatemala City as long as there are no delays along the way.

Chichicastenango (altitude 7,000 feet) is in west central Guatemala in the Sierra Madre mountain range.
The indigenous group in Chichicastenango and area are the Quiche Mayans.

Tactic (5,500 feet) is in a valley in a second mountain range to the east of the Sierra Madres. It is located in almost the geographical center of Guatemala, north east of Guatemala City.

Tactic is a very humid area with spring like weather all year round. It does not have a well defined wet and dry season like Chichicastenango does. In fact, it rains 10 months of the year. It is on the edge of Guatemala's famous cloud forest and ecological preserve where the quetzal bird (an endangered species) lives. The quetzal is Guatemala's national bird and part of their mythological history.
Corn, beans, coffee and cardamon are the main crops around Tactic.

The Poqomchi and Kekchi Mayan Indian groups live in the area of Tactic. The illiteracy rate among the Poqomchi is 80%. 49% of children are chronically malnourished. This is why Impact Ministries has chosen to establish Christian schools in this area.

One of Impact Ministries students lives in this home with her widowed mother and 5 other siblings. I'm looking forward to this opportunity to bring health care and the transforming love of Christ to the Poqomchi of Tactic.

May Newsletter

2009-05-27T20:40:00.000-07:00

"I thank my God on every remembrance of you."

Dear family, friends, supporters and prayer partners,

Greetings and love to each one of you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. How wonderful to communicate with you after over 2 months. Thank you for your prayers and encouragement. As some of you know I've been through a time of transition which has stretched me but has again proven God's faithfulness to His calling in my life.

As my time with ASELSI Ministries, Father's Heart Clinic in Chichicastenango came to a close in April, God opened a new door of ministry in a very needed area of Guatemala. I am so happy to share with you that I have been accepted to work as a volunteer medical worker on a long term and permanent basis with Impact Ministries Canada. Impact Ministries is a Canadian based Christian organization spearheading educational mission work in Tactic, Alta Vera Paz, Guatemala since 1997. Les and Rita Peters, founders and directors of this vibrant ministry come from Kamloops, B.C.

Impact focuses on primary and secondary school education offering sponsorship to children who otherwise would have no opportunity of ever attending school. The six Impact schools, called Life (Vida) Christian Schools serving a total of 1,000 Poqomchi Mayan Indian children are located in 5 different villages around Tactic. They offer free education from primary to junior high, one meal a day, and much needed love, emotional support and spiritual direction.

I will be pioneering a new medical program, which will include initiating a school health program to assess the individual medical needs of each child, overseeing the health of the staff (100 Guatemala employees), and helping with the program development and functioning of a new clinic which is presently under construction, as well as helping with 2-3 short term medical teams yearly.

The desire of Impact Ministries is to bring the light of the gospel to this very impoverished and spiritually dark area, transforming the lives of the children, their families and their communities through discipleship and Christian education. In their first school, started 12 years ago, there is now a vibrant church worshiping every Sunday. The mission's goal is to see a church in each school as the children bring the good news of Christ into their homes and families are saved.

I have already moved all my household belongings to the Impact Ministries guest house in Tactic and will be starting my medical work with the ministry in late July/09. Meanwhile on May 15, I returned to my home town, for a much needed 2 month sabbatical to reconnect with my family, friends and sending church. If you would like me to speak at your church please email me. Thanks so much.

I look forward to this new journey in faith and to new adventures in the Lord. God has been so faithful in working out all the details of this recent move and change in ministry including raising up leadership for my discipleship class and sponsorship for Sonia, providing a moving van and special friends for encouragement in the process.

If you are a present supporter please continue to direct your financial support through Dominion GateWay Center Church. If you are considering sponsoring me as a new sponsor or would like to start a monthly auto debit program through Impact Ministries please click on the "Sponsor Me" link at the top, fill out the form and send to Impact Ministries Canadian office in Kamloops, B.C. My present and urgent financial need is for increased monthly support and a good used vehicle to travel to the various schools in the Tactic area where I will be doing medical ministry.

I am so grateful for your love, encouragement, prayers and continued financial support during this time of transition. You have been such a blessing to me over and over and over again. THANK YOU!!!! God's faithfulness is new every morning! May God bless you each and every one!

Love in Jesus,
Virginia (Ginny) Birss

Grammy's Home!

2009-05-23T10:53:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to be home with my family having arrived in Alberta, Canada on May 15th. My plans are to return to Guatemala the end of July. Visiting with all my family, friends and supporters during this time of sabbatical is my priority. I would like to invite you to a presentation of my missionary work on June 14 at my home church. Please email me for more information.

My granddaughter Eva, 22 months old and baby Bella, 4 months old are such a delight to me. Here's some photos taken yesterday with my new hairdo!! Yeah! No more frazzeled Guatemalan hair.Please stay in touch for further posts. Love YA ALL!!!

Who Is Virginia?

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My life was radically changed at 17 years of age, when God grabbed my attention with His redeeming love and salvation. In my heart I purposed to serve and honor God with my future career of nursing and received the call to missions. My missions career started in Mexico in 1971-1973 and continued from that time on in short term missions worldwide. During this time I raised two boys as a single parent and volunteered in many church programs to children, single parents, and the poor and needy, meanwhile always keeping before me the goal of full-time medical missions. That goal was realized 40 years after my initial calling to missions .

I am now a full-time nurse missionary-evangelist sent out in January 2006 from my home church in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada to minister to the medical and spiritual needs of the Mayan Indians of Guatemala. During my first 3 years in Guatemala I served as a volunteer nurse to the ASELSI Father's Heart Clinic in Chichicastenango. Presently I am a volunteer medical worker with Impact Ministries Canada committed to serving through them for a minimum of 4 years. My responsibilities include providing health care services to the 1000 Poqomchi Mayan children in Impact's 6 different Christian schools.

I will also be assisting with program development and the practical functioning of a new clinic, presently under construction.

At home in Canada and on a personal note, I have two married sons, Shawn (+Kate) and Stephen (+Kindra) who are all serving the Lord, and I also have two lovely granddaughters.

I thank God for His continual unfailing grace and faithfulness to me in Christ Jesus throughout my life's journey.

Contact Me

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For more information about what I do, how you can get involved or partner with me, or even just to send encouragement please contact me at:

EMAIL: vbirss[AT]yahoo[DOT]ca

WEBSITE FOR IMPACT: www.impactministries.ca

MAILING ADDRESS: Virginia Birss,
Ministerios Impacto
Km 184.5 Carretera a Cobán
Tactic, Alta Verapaz
Guatemala, Central America

Sponsor Me

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If you would like to support me in my ministry, there are two ways to give:

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