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We arrived here safely, although a bit tired from our 6:00 a.m. gathering at DCA. Cesar, our guide from last year greeted us at the airport. We’re so glad he’s with us again this year. After picking up the rental vans we drove to a local popular BBQ spot for lunch, before heading for the mountains to the retreat center where we’re staying. On the way we stopped by one of the homes our group worked on last summer. It was nice to see the family again and check in with them. After another stop to pick up supplies for this week’s work we arrived at the retreat center—a beautiful location nestled in the mountains. We had dinner and chance to unwind, play games, and take a dip in the pool before closing out the evening with Compline. There was even time to break open the coconuts growing at the center. We’re ready for a good night’s rest before heading off for our work tomorrow, after breakfast and morning prayer. We’re falling to sleep to the sound of the coquis—tiny frogs, about the size of a quarter, that chirp incredibly loud for their size. Attaching a recording so you can hear them too. Thanks again for yesterday’s commissioning and all your support of our mission trip! – Jana
June 22–28, our Youth Group will be in Puerto Rico creating friendships in the task of helping others; exploring and reflecting on new places and cultures. Please check back soon for updates from the Puerto Rico trip.
One of today’s major highlights included, attending the pilgrim’s mass in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. At the beginning of the pilgrims' mass, the church read out a list of the number of pilgrims received in the pilgrims' office in the last 24 hours—where they traveled from and where they began their pilgrimage. Pictures cannot completely capture the stunning beauty of the altar. At the end of the mass we received an amazing surprise which was to see the famous Botafumeiro —the giant swinging incense burner weighing 53 kg that only swings during certain masses. Today it was privately sponsored by a group of pilgrims from Colorado. The experience was emotional and deeply moving for all of us.