April 15-22 Albany Presbytery Mission Trip
This April, a delegation from Albany Presbytery will travel to Guatemala, continuing a 30+ year partnership rooted in faith, friendship, and mutual encouragement. As they prepare for this journey, we invite you to meet the members of the team and join them in prayer.
Learn more about the Guatemala partnership and the upcoming immersion trip: Guatemala Partnership Task Force web page
Kate Kotfila: I am a retired pastor serving in 3 congregations in Albany Presbytery over 42 years. I have been traveling to Guatemala over the last 15 years building relationships, learning about the struggles of indigenous people, and partnering with churches to support their vision for ministry. Please pray that my physical and dietary limitations not get in the way, for tender, graced conversations despite language barriers, and for good natured humor as we travel together!
Maria Sandoval: I am a bilingual/bicultural Mexican-American born in Chihuahua, Mexico. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) providing mental health services to both the English and Spanish speaking communities for over 15 years. I went on this trip in March 2024 and found the experience to be very educational, enlightening, and uplifting. I am honored to be invited back. Pray for peace and unity in the world as well as healing for those suffering trauma. Pray for a safe and successful trip to Guatemala.
Kathy Gorman-Coombs: I am co-pastor of Trinity Church in Scotia, and chair of the Albany Presbytery Guatemala Task Force .I’ve been to Guatemala more than 20 times and always learn something new and come back with my faith strengthened. Please pray for guidance in navigating our partnership with the Mam Presbytery, a more intentional partnership with CEDEPCA, and being open to wherever the Spirit leads us as well as safe travel for all of us.
Kim Deal: I attend Brunswick Church. Although I have felt called to be part of this mission for many years, this will be my first opportunity to join the team and my first international mission trip. I am looking forward to meeting Brunswick’s Mam prayer partners and learning from their faith and community. Please pray for an open heart and spirit, meaningful relationships during the visit, and safe travel for us all.
Sandra Riggin: I attend Christ’s Church of the Hills in Rotterdam, NY. I’m excited to be part of this delegation to Guatemala. I have gone on this trip once before in 1993. So I am looking forward to seeing all the changes that have happened and to meeting Christ Church’s sister church in the Mam Presbytery. Pray for safe travels and heartfelt faith journeys for us all.
