When passion meets purpose, extraordinary things happen. That’s precisely what unfolded when María Jose Rodriguez, affectionately known as Majo, joined the Nicolas Fund for Education (NFE) mission team. Majo first visited the Ixil region in August 2024 with her father, traveling from Guatemala City. During that brief two-day visit, she stepped in as an interpreter for team member Victoria, and the two quickly became a dynamic duo in the classroom. Fast forward to August 2025, when Victoria invited Majo to join the team for a full mission trip. Majo, now a first-year psychology student, eagerly accepted, balancing her studies with long days of service. Her dedication, energy, and heart for God left an indelible mark on the team and the children they served.
I had the privilege of sitting down with Majo to hear about her experience with NFE and the impact it had on her life.
Kathy: What was the most meaningful part of accompanying our August NFE team?
Majo: Choosing the most meaningful part of accompanying the NFE team is difficult; the entire experience filled my heart. Not only was I able to use the talents God gave me to help, but both the team and the children had a deep and meaningful impact on my life and my relationship with God. As I spent time with the team and got to know them better, I saw the passion and love of God within them, which moved them to get up earlier than usual every morning without complaint to serve the Lord. This is so motivating and inspiring because each of them planted a seed in the children that will surely blossom into something wonderful.
Kathy: Tell me about your visits to the villages of Vichibala and Belen.
Majo: Visiting the villages of Vichibala and Belén was very nice. Last year, I had the opportunity to translate at the Vichibala school, but this year it was a totally different experience. I truly saw the change when teachers were integrated into the activities. Not only did they support us in supervising the children, but they were also involved in the dynamics, and we worked more as a team. In addition, we had a great time with the children, and they taught us many games. It’s been a long time since I’ve run so much and felt the excitement of playing games.
Belen School is a place where the love for learning shines, and you also see the values of discipline and order in the children. The teacher there clearly cares about the children and their learning process, and it’s admirable how he teaches classes to all grade levels. I really liked that the children wore their traditional costumes, and they taught us what each color and each part of the costume symbolized. The visits to some homes in the villages were also significant. You can see that even in times of adversity, faith in God always comes first.
Kathy: How was your time at Nicolas Christian School?
Majo: It was amazing! I’ve never seen a school as special as this one. From the moment they welcomed us with praise and dancing in celebration of God, it felt wonderful to be there. I liked that before class, they begin with a devotional, and it’s something that I have implemented in my life because God has to always come first. I also found the different Friday workshops very interesting; I feel they teach students very useful skills in the workplace. The students not only learn necessary knowledge in each class, but they also take away life lessons that will serve them well and last a lifetime.
Kathy: Anything else you’d like to share about your experience?
Majo: I appreciate all the work NFE does to help the people of my country and enable them to excel and become excellent professionals who, above all, place their trust in God. I am also grateful for the opportunity NFE gave me to be part of the team and for welcoming me with open arms.
Majo’s story is a beautiful reminder of how God uses willing hearts to make a difference. Her journey with NFE is a testament to the power of service, faith, and community. The seeds planted during these mission trips grow into life-changing opportunities for the children of the Ixil region, empowering them to dream big and trust in God’s plan for their lives.
You can be part of this incredible mission too! Whether it’s through volunteering, financial support, prayer, or joining an NFE mission trip, your involvement can transform lives. Share your God-given gifts and help us bring hope and education to the Ixil region. Together, we can make a lasting impact.