By Adam Zollo

During my 10 days of adventure in Guatemala, I repeatedly witnessed how much good work a few dedicated people can do. The diocesan mission in Guatemala is absolutely amazing, as evidenced by everything they have accomplished.

I was impressed by how in-tune with Guatemala Father Hazy and the sisters were. Everything they gave was practical and applicable. For instance, the clinic’s small organic garden of native plants provided the clinic with the ingredients they need to supplement diets and make medicine.

The clinic is not only able to use these plants to provide cheap medicine, but also to teach the local Guatemalans how to grow the plants at home for their private needs.

The Sisters were incredible and astoundingly wise. Some of my favorite moments were when we talked with them in the afternoons, learning about Guatemala’s history and culture from their experiences.

The school was also impressive. The areas where the Guatemalans live offer very few opportunities for quality education. Most opportunities come in the form of public schools that often don’t even have books for their students. What Hazy’s school was able to offer to its community surpassed even some American public schools. The school works hard to create well-rounded students, as well as to prepare future teachers and to pass down the Indian heritage of the Quiché people.

Adam Zollo, a senior TESOL major from Salt Lake City, Utah, was among the Carroll College group that visited the diocesan mission in Guatemala last May.

A group of students from the University of Missoula/Christ the King Parish visited the Guatemala mission this May, along with Father Jeff Fleming.


Published in The Montana Catholic, Vol. 24, No. 5, May 16, 2008.