Pilgrim's Journal, Day 3

Today took a different twist as we stayed on the campus of YWAM Belize to participate in serveral work projects as they prepare for a large youth conference. The team from St. Marks diligently gave six hours to work hard on behalf of our hosts for this pilgrimage week. We broke into teams to accomplish the many tasks at hand. Some worked to clean up around the river bed and swimming hole. Another group of students painted the inside of the “Community Center” while others cut wood, deep cleaned bathrooms and cabins. All of this was a sacrifical investment in the lives of hundreds who will come to learn about Christ right here at YWAM Belize.

After a hot and hard days work many took a break while others played soccer with local kids and teens. Finally - just about everyone will take a dip in the local swimming hole before dinner. After our dinner we will round out the evening with discussion of St. Matthew chapter 25 - and ask the question…what does it mean to serve the “least of these?” Most will end the evening with journaling and writing notes to Lucy before heading to bed.

Later...

Today was a great day for reflection as we floated down a river nestled in the middle of the rain forest. Our guides helped the students and leaders navigate through a series of mile longs caves where they got to experience the marvels of nature including an underground waterfall and bat cave. At the end of the “cave portion” of our journey we stopped for a time of reflection to talk about the challenges of life and what may be holding us back from expeiencing the fullness of life. As a memory of our time together each student selected a rock that “best described them” - which will be used later in the week during our Eucharist Encounter. Before we left the river most students and adults took a well deserved jump from the rope swing into a crystal blue swimming hole. After a hearty dinner we enjoyed some free time and ended our day with discussion, journaling and prayer.

Pilgrimage entries:
Day 4
Day 3
Day 2
Day 1
Departure