Blog – Comboni Lay Missionaries

A Day of Faith, Learning, and Hope in Manzanillo

9 June, 2026 by Alberto de la Portilla

Last Saturday, June 6, we, the Comboni Lay Missionaries of Guatemala, had the joy of once again sharing a day of mission in the community of Manzanillo.

In the morning, we held activities with the children of the community, exploring the theme of the Angel’s Annunciation to Mary. Through games, songs, dances, moments of prayer, and times of reflection, the children were able to better understand Mary’s generous response to God’s call and discover how they too can say “yes” to Jesus in their daily lives.

It was a morning filled with enthusiasm, smiles, and active participation, where each activity became an opportunity to sow Christian values and strengthen the faith of the little ones.

In the afternoon, the gathering continued with the adults of the community. On this occasion, we reflected on the theme “God dwelt among us,” delving into the immense love of God who drew near to humanity through Jesus Christ. Dialogue and reflection allowed us to share experiences of faith and strengthen our sense of community.

As part of the day’s activities, a practical workshop on making traditional sweets was also held, with the aim of providing an additional tool that can contribute to the economic development of families in the community. This initiative seeks to foster new entrepreneurial opportunities and strengthen local capacities to improve the living conditions of the community’s residents.

We give thanks to God for this beautiful mission experience, for every child, young person, and adult who participated, and for all the people who made this activity possible. We continue walking alongside the communities, sharing the faith, promoting human dignity, and proclaiming the Gospel with joy, following the example of St. Daniel Comboni.

“Save Africa with Africa,” said St. Daniel Comboni. Today we continue to believe that true development arises when communities discover and strengthen the gifts that God has sown within them.

CLM Guatemala

Prayer Intentions of the Comboni Family June 2026

2 June, 2026 by Alberto de la Portilla

Faced with growing social and political polarisa-tion, conflicts, and wars in our world, may the Lord help us to build bridges, not walls, so that love may prevail over the barriers that seek to di-vide us. Let us pray.

African Day 2026

27 May, 2026 by Alberto de la Portilla

We’d like to share with you this conversation organized by AMANI, a Spanish NGO that collaborates with the CLM, featuring the coordinator of the Central Committee of the Comboni Lay Missionaries.

In this video, he shares a glimpse of Africa—particularly from the perspective of the LMC present on the continent—covering some history, dreams, and the commitment to remain faithful to the missionary vocation inspired by St. Daniel Comboni. (Video in Spanish)

A New Family in Lima

25 May, 2026 by Alberto de la Portilla

When we were in Lima, we met a new family who helped us with so many things.

We never felt alone because they were there for us every step of the way. They also introduced us to Peruvian culture and cuisine.

Despite the language barrier, we had a wonderful experience, which became a source of strength and confidence for us.

In Lima, we met many people, families, and friends of the CLM.

We often went to pray the rosary, and on other days we went for walks. We also celebrated birthdays together. Plus, we went to the beach to have fun.

In all those encounters, we found hope and confidence, especially in the Spanish language.

Belinda Awino, CLM in Peru

May God bless you!

21 May, 2026 by Alberto de la Portilla

I have just completed my Community Experience.

It was a special time, a gift from God, to deepen and enrich my relationship with God and with others.

I am especially grateful to Edyta and Stanisław’s family, as well as their three children, with whom I spent these past few months. They opened their home and their generous hearts to me.

I warmly thank them for their kindness and understanding.

I also thank the Comboni Brothers and Fathers, as well as all the Comboni Lay Missionaries, for every gesture, every piece of good advice, every spiritual accompaniment, every meeting, formation session, presentation, and catechesis on Daniel Comboni, and for all the good they have done for me and continue to do.

During this Community Experience, I was also able to participate in the Ignatian spiritual retreat in silence and in numerous religious events. I also visited the tomb of the Servant of God Helenka Kmieć, whom I chose as the patron saint of my missionary ministry at the beginning of the Community Experience.

I thank you all for your prayers and ask you to continue praying for me, as my departure for Africa is scheduled in a few weeks.

Warm regards,

With my prayers,

Leszek, LMC Poland