Why Birthdays Matter So Much at Casa Bernabé
When we think about birthdays, many of us remember gathering with family, blowing out candles, opening presents, and hearing the people we love sing Happy Birthday.
But for many of the children who come to Casa Bernabé, those memories don't exist.
Some have never had a birthday party. Others have never received a birthday gift. For children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment, birthdays can simply be another day that passes by unnoticed.
That's why we make them a very big deal.
At Casa Bernabé, every birthday is an opportunity to remind a child that their life is a gift from God, they are deeply loved, and He has a purpose for every year He gives them.
Each of our eight homes celebrates birthdays a little differently, reflecting the unique personalities of the house parents and children who live there. Some birthday children get to choose the movie for family movie night. Others enjoy a favorite meal prepared by their house parents or a special celebration over the weekend.
Many of our houses also ask Juan José and Isaac, the two young men who do the baking for the tienda, to bake a special cake for the occasion.
Tony has become a beloved part of many birthday celebrations. He faithfully shows up with cake (sometimes homemade!), thoughtful gifts, and often a new outfit or a few favorite treats to help each child feel celebrated on their special day.
While every house has its own traditions, the goal is always the same: to honor and celebrate another year of life. Once each month, a local church also visits Casa Bernabé to host a birthday celebration for every child who celebrated during that month. They bring gifts, cake, and food, creating a day the children eagerly anticipate. The excitement is contagious as each birthday child gets their turn to be celebrated.
One birthday receives an especially meaningful celebration.
In Guatemala, a quinceañera, or a girl's 15th birthday, is a major milestone that marks her transition into womanhood. Traditionally, family and friends gather to celebrate with a special meal, dancing, words of encouragement, and a father-daughter dance.