It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Carol Conger-Cross, long time Director of the Guatemala Project, a mission project of the California-Pacific Conference, and member of La Mesa First United Methodist Church.  Carol passed away comfortably on August 8 with husband Dale by her side.

The Guatemala Project’s mission is to assist Mayans in securing a voice in their own future and is funded primarily through the sale of Mayan indigenous products purchased during each of two visits to Chichicastenango every year, then sold at craft fairs and Alternative Christmas events at churches across the Conference. For nearly 30 years, Carol, along with Guatemala mission teams, has directed the building of medical and dental clinics, a tailor’s trade school, houses for widows and homes for mudslide victims, wood efficiency stoves, schools for children as well as taken medical teams to serve the needs of people who may never before been seen by a doctor.

Saying goodbye to this beloved activist, leader, and church member is not easy; however, the opportunity to meet together and support each other through our grief, as well as celebrate all that Carol has accomplished, can help ease the pain. All who knew Carol Conger-Cross are invited to her memorial at 12 PM on Saturday, September 16, in the sanctuary of La Mesa First UMC (4690 Palm Ave., La Mesa). You can also attend online at LM1 Livestream or www.lamesaumc.com.

The memorial will be followed by a reception in the social hall organized by La Mesa First’s United Women in Faith, one of the many organizations where Carol made a huge impact. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that friends consider donating to her beloved Guatemala Project.

Rev. Christian DeMent
La Mesa First United Methodist Church