The halfway point........

Another fun filled, action packed day began this morning at eight o' clock! Once again we enjoyed our lovely Ecuadorian breakfast of scrambled eggs and rolls. We were then introduced to today's theme in morning reflection. We were told to contemplate who we are as young adults and who we would like to become throughout our spiritual journey.

After journaling we piled on the bus to enjoy some Inca ruins- very fascinating! John instructed us to pick up two rocks, one to throw off the cliff and one to take home. These rocks symbolized what we wanted to leave behind and what we wanted to come out of this experience with. Then we headed off to Museo Solar Inti Nan, next to La Mitad del Mundo, also known as the middle of the Earth! We were able to see all of the wonderful advancements throughout Ecuadorian culture which led us to realize how much God has influenced our minds over time.

After eating our sack lunches, we traveled to the retreat center El Refugio. We engaged in many team building activities...some more difficult than others! The beautiful scenery made these games even better! We then had a cookout complete with Cuy (aka Guinea pig!) which almost everyone tried and found to be rather unique. To top off a perfect day we roasted s'mores and competed in a very intense soccer game.

Despite the entertaining soccer match, my favorite part of the day was tonight's reflection where we came full circle as Leslie led a wonderful discussion. We were all told that despite the struggles we face we are always loved in the eyes of God. Next everyone gathered to share the positive qualities of each pilgrim and chaperone, a very moving activity. I think we are all super excited to continue with the next half of our pilgrimage and are all loving everything Ecuador has to offer! It is so easy to feel God's presence here in this beautiful, vivacious country and I can already begin to feel my confidence in faith expanding.

-Hallie