This is Mariana Candelaria Chingo Hernandez and I greet you affectionately. How are you doing? I want to share with you that I am in good health. I am 16 years old and I attend school as a ninth-grade student. Throughout these three years of junior high school, I have made many good friends like Silvia. She is brilliant and helps me with homework. I identify with my mom because she is a brave and hardworking woman. She makes a living as a day laborer to support our family. She also farms vegetables and sells them at the market on Thursdays and Sundays. I usually help her with the household chores.  

My church’s name is Sovereign King. My family and I enjoy all the activities at church, but our favorite one is the First Fruit presentations. I have learned so much about Jesus, so I can tell you that He is my Savior. I have felt His loving presence in my whole life, especially when I spend time with my family. Thankfully, nobody is sick. The most exciting experience that I have lived is celebrating Christmas with them. Thank you for reading my information! I wrote you this letter with my mom’s help. See you later! 

Kisses and hugs,  

Mariana Candelaria Chingo Hernandez 

Translated by: Hillary Popol, AAC Secretary/Antigua Guatemala