The word of today is wow! Today we took the day off, partially because the heat was so oppressive but also do to a packed schedule of hospitality. It is hard to believe as we write this that this has all occurred in one day. We began our day with a Fiesta celebration. We participated in a beautiful mass that was packed! On a Thursday morning! Afterwards we were treated to a delicious reception provided by cooking students of the area. After the reception we were taken to the "river" which in reality was a beautiful oasis of palm trees , thatched huts, shade and fresh water river that flows down from the mountains. It was breathtaking. We spent several hours there throughout the afternoon, visiting and relaxing. Two of the young priests from the youth commission accompanied us this afternoon and it was such a gift getting to know them. After leaving the river, we visited the local orphanage. What a place of love! The sisters and the priest who founded and love the orphanage are clearly adored by the 16 children they care for. The grounds of the orphanage were beautiful with a number of small tricycles lined up in the yard. The children they care for are children who have been abandoned and they work to find the families, help them overcome the challenge they have in providing for their children and reunite them with their children. Once again we were treated to an impromptu concert by the children there, one young boy who was autistic and blind seemed to form a quick bond with a few of our young men, and they with him. It was an emotional experience for us all. From the orphanage we went to city hall where we were greeted on the steps and presented with medallions welcoming us to the multiplicity of Labo. After a question and answer period at the mayor's office we were taken to the municipal hall. This is unlike any municipal hall I've ever been to; it was on top of a hill that overlooked the whole area. The view was breathtaking as we dined outside with the setting of the sun and the mountains on the horizon. We were served an entire roast pig! With numerous side dishes, too many to count! As we ate we enjoyed multiple entertainers including an AMAZING 10 year old boy who sang Celine Dion better then Celine Dion. After a few hours of music and dancing, some of the group shared what this experience has meant to them thus far. We are invited back next year. LOL This was not the day we had planned! We came to serve. But this day has been one we will remember for the rest of our lives and we will earn our keep tomorrow back at the job site!
Highlight: Today we officially can NOT pick. It was all AMAZING!!!!!
Quote: "It's hard and takes sacrifice,but if you love these kids you'll be happy." -Sister Hannah
Prayer Request:
-For the children at the orphanage and those who take care of them with such love, that they may receive the resources they need to continue their good work.
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