July 2011 Mission trip Day Two:

Sunday started as it does at home in Indiana with worship. Not quite. First we had a 45 minute ride along a road of rock, dust, holes and mud ending in a drive straight up which our guide Giovanni navigated with considerable skill. We arrived at a wonderful little church San Lucas which overlooks the mountains on one side and the tiny poverty ridden village of Delicious Del Norte on the other. The musical ensemble was already playing Spanish style music when we arrived. There is no glass or screens in the windows so the music was inviting as the families strolled up the hill. We could not help but notice the great number of children, teenagers and dogs. No shortage of acolytes here. Although some of us could not understand the Spanish service, we could not mistake it as our own Rite II. Fr. Schramm and Mother Barbara enjoyed celebrating the service together very much as we all did. Stella did a great job of doing the readings in Spanish. Several people received birthday blessings including Stella. St. Timothy donated a chalice to San Lucas. The children sang and danced for us after the service - what a treat. Because the church was open on top of a mountain it sounded like the Sound of Music. The entire service gave us a feeling of joy and love. The Honduran people were warm and extremely welcoming. After the children sang, we were greeted by of all the parishioners. The kids loved it when Marty put stickers on their hands, arms or faces.

When we left the church, Giovanni drove as to the ocean where we had a excellent seafood dinner on the beach. Judy ate a whole fish with the head and tail still on. We also had a watermelon juice drink which was very good. Some of us were talked into buying large straw hats to wear while painting tomorrow. Father Dan also bought hats for his daughters. It was a hard decision for him to make - who would like which color? We also treated ourselves to a walk along the beach. All in preparation for the work which will begin tomorrow at 7 AM.

We will be ready with paint brushes, concrete, bug spray, and sun tan lotion.

Blessings to all.