Day one started out with youth from three different churches
gathering at Church of the Holy Spirit for a pre-departure service and
blessing. Likewise, teams from Hastings and Holdredge gathered to do likewise.
After services, teams loaded up and headed out with great expectations of what
lay ahead. Many on our team have made this trip several times and the
opportunity to renew friendships from past trips was something many were looking
forward to. Other than a little rain along the way, none of our teams
experienced any difficulties and everyone arrived at St. John’s safely and full
of energy after being cooped up in vehicles on the long drive.
The teams were met by Carl, a member of the parish who gave us the usual rundown on what is happening. It is so good to see him again and we are really looking forward to Wednesday evening’s celebration service and dinner with the rest of our host parish. It was then time to begin unloading the trailer. Other than a few broken bottles that fell as a cooler was unloaded, totally uneventful; and before we knew it, things were in their place and our bedrolls were laid out ready for us when the day came to a close. We spent some time getting to know one another as the rest of the team began arriving.
Our first meal together was pizza from Pizza Hut. The local store has always been generous in supporting our team and this year was no different. Thanks to the management, we got a great deal on some great pizzas and stuffed ourselves till we were no longer hungry (we even have some left over for a pizza breakfast). Next our youth explored the immediate area and chilled on the front lawn. It was really nice to hear the laughter and see everyone getting along. While a few adventurous youth took to the large tree in the front yard (before learning they weren’t supposed to) others played cards and did what kids do, have fun.
After a short break to blow off a little steam, the team gathered in the sanctuary to discuss the trip and how we would be working together. We have two new team leaders this year and there were a lot of questions, but in the end, everyone had a good idea of how we would take on the tasks before us. The first task was laid upon our VBS team. Clair took the team aside and they spent a little time exploring the text that will guide tomorrow’s program. Out of this reflection, the team developed an interesting skit to help tell the story and taught us a song to help drive home the point. By the laughter and applause, it was obvious they hit the nail on the head. A little more organizing for tomorrow and some chill time before gathering for Compline.
One of the neatest things to watch is youth leading worship. The laughter stops and the seriousness about what they are doing takes over. It was really a blessing to witness and to participate in. Good job!!! Well, it is time to say good night, the day is just about over and the lights are out. It is amazing at how quickly the hustle and bustle of youthful exuberance gave way to the peace and quiet of the night.
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