Delegations

If a delegation is an "authorized group of representatives sent forth with a purpose", then the purpose of Sister Parish Delegations is relationship. In the process, cultural exchange occurs, project needs may arise, and spiritual sharing may occur. As Tierra Nueva Dos and St. Joan of Arc began their "hermanamiento", the early delegations focused on developing trust and personal and community connections. Only after that trust was established did thoughts turn to what we could do to help each other spiritually, politically, and materially.
What follows is a summation of the ongoing delegations that have occurred. Both communities look forward to adding new experiences to this page in future delegations.

Primera Delegació

The first delegation visited Tierra Nueva Dos during Holy Week in 1995. The purpose of this delegation was to establish the 1st personal connection between the communities and develop a mission statement. The pioneers were Vickie Hempe, Alex Lape, John Reinhardt, Betsy Horton, Norma and Larry Schuh, and Bob Heberle. Click here to see images and reflections of this first encounter.

Segunda Delegació

Our second delegation during the summer of 1996 was highlighted by the inclusion of 7 youth delegates and their advisor Marge (Bonnert) Gustafson from the SJA staff. The youth were Alys Spensely, Jon Seckinger, Daniel and Katie Johnson, Jason Creighton, Christopher Milton, and Jim Tillmans. Accompanying the youth group were Bob Heberle, Carol Gannoway, Rick Nelson, and Mindy Ahler-Olmstead. Tim and Mary Beth Leone-Getten met the group while they were in Tierra Nueva Dos. Click here for a report of the trip.

Tercera Delegació

Father George Wertin's inclusion in a delegation during the fall of 1997 was very important to cementing the relationship. Accompanying Padre Jorgé on the delegation were Barry Noack, Chris Reano, Mary Nelson, Mindy Ahler-Olmstead, Sherri Overstreet, Kathy Durocher and Mary Booth. Chris and Mindy will be producing a summary of this delegation soon to add to these pages.

Quarta Delegació

Our very first South to North delegation occurred during Holy Week of 1998(Apr. 2nd-14th). Pictured are the delegates: Back(L to R)-Paul, Jackie; Middle-Sandra, Aura, Hilda; Front-Gregorio, Carlos, Bernardo. This delegation has its own website as events were updated on a daily basis. To see how a delegation spends it's time, click here.

Quinta Delegació Our 5th delegation will have a slightly different focus. Marge Gustafson(Youth Director) will lead 6 youths and 2 adult chaperones in a more service oriented trip leaving July 16th. You can meet the delegates, read their reflections,and see images of them in Guatemala if you click here. Look for an announcement for our next adult delegation some time this fall.

Sexta Delegació Our 6th delegation is our second from TNII to SJA. 4 adults and 4 youth traveled to Minnesota in October/November, 2000. View their delegation experiences here.