Sisters Mark Anniversaries of El Amparo, First Sisters in Guatemala

March 27, 2025

On March 19, on the feastday of St. Joseph, Sisters and the El Amparo community in Huehuetenango, Guatemala celebrated the 62nd anniversary of the founding of the Congregation of Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word in Guatemala and the 48th of the establishment of El Amparo of St. Joseph, the CCVI ministry and home for the abandoned elderly. The celebration began with a Mass, followed by a reception where all enjoyed a delicious lunch accompanied by marimba music. During the event, the community paid tribute to the four pioneering CCVI Sisters - M. Stanislaus Mackey, Margaret Kelly, Paulette Shaunfield and Dermot Cahill - who came from Houston. Sisters shared a brief story about their courageous beginnings, which allowed all to reflect on their invaluable missionary legacy. Sr. Paulette Shaunfield, who lives in Houston, recalled with fondness her 15 years ministering in Guatemala. She said she saw great strides in Huehuetenango through the years to build and improve upon health services offered in the community. Sixty-two years later, that work was honored, as prayers for the entire CCVI Congregation were lifted up at El Amparo. It was a day filled with gratitude and hope, where the community came together in one spirit and with deep faith. - Sr. Ernestina Mejia Chavez, CCVI