Children, young people, adults, pregnant women, families, even the elderly find a real oasis here, seven days a week. They are welcomed with the dignity that every human being deserves by a group of anonymous heroes who do not judge and do not exclude, but who have a merciful heart, attentive to the words of Jesus: “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me to drink; I was a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, sick and you took care of me, imprisoned and you visited me” (Matthew 25:34-36).
Volunteer Rosa Forlán says that in the three weeks she served at “Casa Betania” she witnessed the tragedy experienced by thousands of people and how they are treated here. “On one of those days, Esteban arrived with his feet seriously injured by the long walk,” explains Mrs. Rosa. “Matias was picked up at the door, dehydrated, almost dying and it was necessary to call for medical assistance. Hours later, Maribel arrived, a single mother with two children under eight, and Julia, with her three daughters: the eldest, aged eleven, had a hand injured from a fall on the way across the border. I also met Luis, who appeared alongside Oscar, Lucas and William, who said they were unemployed, but with a desire to work and improve despite their poor education,” she added.
To these stories are added those of Miguel, Jacinta, Margarita, Juan, and many others. Every day, at any given time, from Monday to Sunday, the volunteers of “Casa Betania” listen to stories of not only suffering and fear, but also of hope. The migrants who arrive here, in fact, arrive exhausted and tried, due to the high temperatures, hunger and thirst. When they leave, they say their farewells with a grateful smile. At “Casa Betania” they receive accommodation, food, rest, psychological assistance, and other services.
“Collaborating in the restaurant, laundry, reception and cleaning service allowed me to get to know a reality that is sometimes little told. Migrants are not looking for a dream, they are going through an ordeal, asking for justice and understanding,” continues Rosa. “But understanding is only possible 'walking with them' in a silent and supportive accompaniment, making oneself available to listen without judgment because each person brings a heavy burden that only he or she knows.”
https://www.infoans.org/en/sections/news/item/13694-guatemala-casa-betania-an-oasis-for-migrants#sigProIdd7b8209163
