Gettin' Hitched
Yesterday was a brand new cultural adventure for us!
We traveled a few miles outside the city to a town where many indigenous Mayans live, and were given a presentation on their culture and how they go about preserving it.
First, they taught us a few words in their native language, K'iche, and showed us the traditional garb they wear.
Next, they showed us the process of weaving textiles, which was extremely involved and complicated! Apparently, they begin to teach their daughters at the age of 6. Julia even got to try her hand at it!
Next, we learned about traditional Mayan weddings - where they happen, who pays, and what all the associated rituals mean. Four of our students got to participate interactively - Joey and Gabbi as the engaged couple and Jack E. and Lauren as the parents of the groom.
Gabbi rethinking her life choices.
Finally, we practiced making our own tortillas by hand over a wood-fired stove. Some of us were better at it than others. Then we enjoyed a delicious traditional meal of pepian (a meaty, spicy stew) and atol (a hot, spiced drink).
It was an awesome opportunity for our students to learn from and spend time with the people who live in Guatemala.
Before we left, we stopped to visit with some long-time missionaries, hearing about their heart for Guatemala and their passion for evangelism and sharing Christ.
All in all, a pretty great day. Today is the last day of classes for the students, and they are excited for their ceremony this afternoon!
We traveled a few miles outside the city to a town where many indigenous Mayans live, and were given a presentation on their culture and how they go about preserving it.
First, they taught us a few words in their native language, K'iche, and showed us the traditional garb they wear.
Next, they showed us the process of weaving textiles, which was extremely involved and complicated! Apparently, they begin to teach their daughters at the age of 6. Julia even got to try her hand at it!
Next, we learned about traditional Mayan weddings - where they happen, who pays, and what all the associated rituals mean. Four of our students got to participate interactively - Joey and Gabbi as the engaged couple and Jack E. and Lauren as the parents of the groom.
Gabbi rethinking her life choices.
Finally, we practiced making our own tortillas by hand over a wood-fired stove. Some of us were better at it than others. Then we enjoyed a delicious traditional meal of pepian (a meaty, spicy stew) and atol (a hot, spiced drink).
It was an awesome opportunity for our students to learn from and spend time with the people who live in Guatemala.
Before we left, we stopped to visit with some long-time missionaries, hearing about their heart for Guatemala and their passion for evangelism and sharing Christ.
All in all, a pretty great day. Today is the last day of classes for the students, and they are excited for their ceremony this afternoon!
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