Safety in Honduras
The news media recently reported an attack by suspected gang members on a bus outside of San Pedro Sula. In this tragic incident, 28 people were killed. The attack rightly raises the question of safety for members of work groups that visit El Hogar.

It is true that gang violence is a problem in Honduras, as in other Central American countries. The President of Honduras, Ricardo Maduro, had his own son kidnapped and killed, and therefore combating this violence is of personal concern to him. He has made an effort to reduce gang violence, and has been successful in part. Unfortunately, the remaining gang members have fought back. Although the overall crime statistics are down, there are occasional incidents that are calculated to intimidate and keep people in fear. In effect, the gangs have engaged in a type of domestic terrorism.

The army has been called into service to ensure the safety of the people of Honduras. Right now, in response to the attack on the bus, they are a very visible presence. Even before that, during the Christmas shopping season, there were several police or soldiers on most of the buses. Honduras is bringing the resources it has to address this problem.

What does this mean for the safety of volunteers? I still feel confident that coming to volunteer at El Hogar is not a foolish thing to do.

Although, just as in the US, there is ultimately no protection against totally random acts of violence, using good sense is a powerful weapon against most of the violence that is happening. The staff of El Hogar Projects is very knowledgeable about the situation in various parts of the city. We will not put people in situations of danger. By traveling during the daytime, staying away from dangerous neighborhoods, and avoiding public transportation, we can decrease any risk to our visitors.

As those who have visited in the past know, we discourage volunteers from leaving El Hogar unaccompanied, or from walking in the neighborhood at night. We would rather err on the side of caution, so that no one in visiting groups is relieved of wallet or credit cards. We would like to keep our visitors from any situation that would put them at risk, and feel we can do so.

Having said all that, it is worth noting that any prompting of the Holy Spirit to serve God will always hold some risk. Jesus tells his followers that he is sending them out as sheep in the midst of wolves. That does not sound very safe. He also, however, tells them that he is the Good Shepherd, who will give his life for the sheep. Ultimately, Jesus is our security and our hope in the midst of danger.

Please keep the staff of El Hogar in your prayers. Although we can shield our volunteers from danger, our staff regularly make home visits to neighborhoods ruled by the gangs. This is where our boys come from, and we cannot abandon them because of fears for our safety. Some of our teachers live in dangerous areas, and regularly use public transportation to get to work. They have learned to live without giving into fears, but would value your prayers for their safety.

I would urge any of you who had planned to come and volunteer this year to follow through on your plans. Please do not be deterred by news reports. El Hogar is truly a home of love and hope, and we look forward to providing you with hospitality as you share your gifts with us.

The Rev. Rich Kunz
Executive Director
El Hogar Projects