Sunday Worship 8:45 and 11:00 AM

        The end of a trip – the beginning of a journey!  We all arrived safely and were touched by the warm welcome we received from family and friends who gathered at the airport to welcome us home! We left a week ago searching for answers and returned home with more questions than we started with. We met so many people who have dedicated their lives to deal with the plight of illegal immigration along the Mexico/U.S. border. They had so much to tell us, but sometimes even the experts didn’t have the answers to the tough questions!

 

Our last evening together we spent a great deal of time reflecting on our experiences. Some of us shared our thought through tear-filled emotions. There is no doubt in my mind that we will need more time together to reflect in the future and we have plans to do so. One thing we were asked to think about was one or two images that you will not soon forget. I would like to share one of mine with you. Megan shared with you that on Wednesday, we spent some time at the Shelter for Repatriated Minors. This was a very touching and most difficult experience for me. Before we even entered the building, I was amazed by a huge sculpture that was of two hands reaching out and children climbing through the fingers. What an appropriate symbol for a place that helped youth re-unite with their families. 

 

We spent time talking with the director/psychologist prior inviting all 30+ youth in to talk with us. It was awkward at first because neither side knew how to begin a dialogue; especially with a language barrier (we had a translator). It was suggested that we all go around the room and tell our names, age, and where we are from! When it was my turn, I said “I am Sally from Columbus, Ohio and I am old enough to be your mother!” After my comment was translated into Spanish (amidst the chuckles), one twelve year old boy from Guatemala turned to me and reached out his hands. I reached back to him and said, “yes, I would love to be your mother” (more chuckles)! Via the translator, rich dialogue continued and we ended our visit with a tour of the center. As we were leaving, I turned to wave to some of the youth and there again was my young friend with his arms stretched out to me. I went back and hugged him – that is all I could give him – yet I know he wanted/needed so much more. Then I turned and walked away before he could see my tears. When I walked outside and saw the large sculpture of the hands reaching out, they suddenly had new meaning. This is one image I will not soon forget!   

 

We couldn’t have asked for a better combination of seven individuals who contributed so much to this experience. I am so proud of the youth and how well they represented Broad Street Presbyterian Church. On the first day we were each assigned a very important role – mine was photographer. Those who know me well know that taking pictures is a passion of mine. So I have many photos to document our exciting journey and am anxious to share them with you. We will share them in a variety of ways – from the church website to Facebook to a slide show to some real live photos displayed in the Narthex. So stay tuned!

 

Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers during our journey!!!