Hit the Ground Running...

What we did:

We had the opportunity to celebrate Mass at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish and afterwards shared a delicious meal with the long term SOLT missionaries, made by the amazing Dona Ruth. Afterwards, we went to the museum of Myan artifacts and then climbed the ruins for a spectacular view of both Belize and Guatemala at the top. From here, we left to go back to John Paul II Junior College to set up for youth night. Youth night consisted of beautiful talks from Sister Bridget, Father Mark, and Elisa, about the love and mercy of God the Father. In addition, we held “glow games”, ate cheese dip even though we forgot to bring coke (a classic Belizian combo), and chatted with the youth.

Reflection:

The day was packed with opportunities to encounter Christ in both the beauty of nature and history, as well as the hearts of those we met. Many of us reflected in our evening meeting how impressed we were with the participation of all those who attended youth night. We had very fruitful discussions with them and even though many spoke about how there is a lack of strong father figures in the area, they seem to have chosen God as their greatest Father. Their enthusiasm was contagious and we all genuinely enjoyed ourselves whether through the games, our conversations, or mediating in prayer with them.