Lessons in Faith and Resilience
Master of Theological Studies student David Hrynyk’s fall Reading Week looked a bit different from that of his classmates at Conrad Grebel University College. Instead of taking a break or catching up on assignments, he boarded a plane to Guatemala City for the travel portion of his reading course on Faith, History, and Resilience in Guatemala.
In addition to readings and papers, a major component of David’s course is a “customized immersion that connects Anabaptist theology, historical memory, and community action across Guatemala.” Hosted by SEMILLA Latin American Anabaptist Seminary, his two-week trip to Central America was specifically designed as an intensive formation journey, linking biblical reflection with practical ministry.
David learned alongside "Q’eqchi’ Indigenous communities in their lived faith, as well as communities that have built grassroots initiatives for peacebuilding and sustainable livelihoods.” He visited numerous sites, like historical memorials and the Archdiocese Human Rights Office, and met with many groups, communities, and leaders. The intention was for David to see the impact of Guatemala’s internal armed conflict and witness how local churches accompany victims toward healing.
“I learned more about Guatemala's history, particularly the injustices that were committed against Indigenous people,” said David. “I reflected on my own context and how Indigenous Canadians have been treated. It is easy to see the injustices and problems in a different country from my own, but how often have I been comfortable and complacent with injustice here in Canada?”
Some of David’s trip overlapped with a course that Grebel Professor Derek Suderman was teaching in Guatemala on The pursuit of Shalom in the Old Testament. “I got to sit in on some sessions and met several pastors and leaders from Central America,” said David. “Even though I don't know much Spanish, the people were kind and hospitable. I was inspired by their faith and passion.” Derek was also David’s supervisor for the reading course.
To help fund the trip, David received support from The Honourable V. Peter Harder International Experience Fund, for which he is very grateful. The Fund enables immersive international experiences that contribute to intellectual formation, cultural understanding, and engagement with global issues.
“Even while seeing injustice in Guatemala, I also met people who are doing incredible work in their communities,” said David. “I was reminded of John 1:5. ‘The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.’ Jesus is shining his light through people who are doing the work of the Kingdom of God. Now that I am home, I am inspired to keep praying, to be aware of what is happening in my country and community, and to see how God might be calling me to serve,” he added.
