The end of the day

Well that fear of airports- well warranted to say the least! Recounting today's events.
1) we left at 4:30am for Pensacola.
2) we miss the 7am due to the airlines mistakes.
3) 12:20 flight delayed first because it needed oil, then it began to storm in Pensacola.
4) finally we board the flight to hear the pilot say we have to deplane because of weather in Miami. Hour delay!
5) just after 3 we depart for Miami.
6) we arrive as our connection is boarding and cannot make the flight or any other for the night!

But wait it gets better... Seriously things are looking up!
7) anyone who looks at our teens smiles because though they are tired they are still laughing and having fun. Surrendering all sadness and even anger recognizing the blessing of being together.
8) Franciscan university calls and says there is an 18 year old girl traveling alone stranded in Miami without a hotel or plans for a flight and understandably nervous.

In the end: a young girl from Minnesota has been brought into our group and will travel with us to Assisi bringing her and her parents great relief! I imagine we are the answer to their prayers. Something we will reflect on bring such a blessing out of a long day. A blessing for her and us. We have enjoyed a nice meal at the hotel. Through adversity we have strengthened our character and community. We have been blessed with an opportunity to show great charity to all those we came in contact with, even in difficult situations.
Perhaps the devil was attacking us, but I think being "rooted and built up in Jesus Christ firm in the faith," we are without question blessed!
Now we pray tomorrow goes a bit smoother!


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Pensacola airport!

Airports

Everyone knows airports. Its not worse than dentist, but seriously when you plan a trip like this you fear the airport. It's not transportation, it's an obstacle in your way to your destination.
All of that being said this morning we were tested from the beginning. A reminder to surrender a prayer for help.... Then make the deal. Not having been able to get on to our original flight do to the airlines admitted mistake. We then had to deal to get 14 passengers on another flight. Patience is a virtue and now everyone on this pilgrimage has become more familiar with this. In the end we thank God, grow in patience and are now headed to Miami!
One of the teens said when we missed the flight, "wait we woke up at 3:30am for a 12:20 pm flight?! We definitely could have slept in longer!" We are all still in great spirits!

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Day 1

What a great start to this pilgrimage! We spent some time together resting and talking and even playing a bit. We had a great dinner and then mass on the wharf. We finished the night with adoration and confession. I think now we are prepared. We will continue to look to Jesus surrendering all to Him! Wakeup calls at 3:45! Sacrifice and pilgrimage begin!

For the sake of His sorrowful passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world!


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World Youth Day 10 days away!

McGill WYD Video

Official WYD video