Friday was a day to rest and to decompress.
Everyone spent the day doing whatever they preferred, whether that be snorkeling, exploring the island or lounging by the beach, unique experiences were had by all.
No matter the activity, we all enjoyed the chance to just soak it all in. We were able to share our individual experiences with each other, from the previous days. What stood out? What was challenging? What surprised you?
Having that day for just that purpose is so crucial to our mission. Otherwise, how can we possibly go home and explain what we’ve seen and done to those who will undoubtedly ask, “how was the trip?” We get to try to find the words together first.
How impossible it seems to describe. Even chronicling it all here does not do justice to what was seen, heard and felt.
It is our hope, however, that the Holy Spirit will guide our words and bring at least a little bit of our personal encounters home to those around us.
Our group in front of Divine Mercy Church.
We’re only missing the two missionaries who left early due to illness.
The island of Caye Caulker…
This excerpt from Friday’s Lenten Hallow challenge was so perfectly timed after the challenges we faced this week.
We knew it would be difficult, though maybe not to what degree. The key is that we do remember to “boast” to God’s wonderful glory, no matter what obstacles are in our way.
To remember that we are all so very privileged to have simply been born where we were and have the lives we do, is in and of itself a blessing.
Sorting of the keys at our hotel on the island.
Daily stingray feeding at one of the resorts.
Happy Hour, anyone?
Pelican friends looking for free drinks.
Some of our crew heading out for their day of snorkeling.
A successfully fun excursion!
Swimming with nurse sharks.
“The Split” in the island was initially caused by a Category 5 hurricane!
A few took a dinghy ride to the other side of The Split to enjoy some sunny relaxation and a chance to “go slow,” as the islanders say.
A group of the team went over to a local restaurant together to enjoy some amazing dishes and patronize a woman working hard to keep her business going. Safe to say that Meldy’s will be a regular stop for years to come!
If only pictures had scent…
Another of many new iguana friends we came across while on the island. This one was chasing his counterparts around so quickly that they even had a few close brushes with some of our people!
Shrimp Kebabs like no other.
We were blessed to experience a power outage on Friday night and had the incredible opportunity for some star gazing. A couple of our missionaries are avid, at-home astronomers who love to share their passion with the team.
Another advantage of the decreased light pollution was the sight of the moon rising.
We are so immensely blessed!
Just as our pelican friend seen here with Saturday’s sunrise, it’s time to fly away home…
Until next time, Belize, adios!
~~~
Now that we’re all safely back in Minnesota, we want to once again thank everyone who contributed to our cause.
Words cannot express our gratitude for the financial generosity, the prayers and the encouraging words.
It is typical that there be some sort of open event where we share more pictures and testimony from multiple missionaries. Stay tuned and check the East Duluth Mission Field bulletin for information on when that may take place and what it will look like.
Thank you all and may God bless you.
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