Proclaiming Christ in the Heart of THE City
posted by Michaelle Justice, youth mentor
I wish to begin with a big THANK YOU! Thank you to the St. Paul's Community for allowing me to represent our church on this pilgrimage, thank you to all those in the church who mentor and teach our youth; thank you to our clergy and vestry for supporting and making this journey happen; thank you to my family for allowing me to be away for 2 weeks; thank you to Bryan and David for organizing an amazing experience; thank you Barbara for being part of this journey; thank you to these youth for teaching and accepting me; and finally, thank you to the parents of these youth, for allowing me the honor of accompaniying your young adults on this journey.
Next I would like the parents of these youth to turn and give each other a big hug, and say "job well done"! Your children are exceptional! Every one of them has impressed me with their understanding of the spiritual nature of this pilgimage. They have been respectful, well behaved, inquisitive, fun, reflective and supportive of each other. This is what youth programs should be all about! We had a time of sharing last night, and I can assure you from their conversation, that they have deep connections with each other that will last a lifetime, even as they go their separate ways. Not only did they share their feelings about each other, but about those of the group that were unable to be with us, including Jamie and Quint. Even though they were unable to make this journey, they will always be in the hearts of each member of this youth group. Parents, if you ever wonder if encouraging participation in a St. Paul's youth program is worth it, talk to me. I am observing the results, and believe me, you want it for your kids! I only hope Meagan and Evan form the kinds of connections these young adults have with each other.
Finally, to the St. Paul's Community, you have done your job in giving these youth a spiritual community. They have great love for our church, and have been a shining example, here in Jerusalem, of the kind of outreach and human connections that St. Paul's has instilled in them. I can truly say they deeply care about the world and the huge variety of people that live in it. They already have, and will continue to make this world a better place. Though this may be the conclusion of their time as this individual group, they will all go their individual ways and continue the good work St. Paul's has begun. Like the image posted earlier from the Garden of Gethsemane, St. Paul's is like the roots of the olive tree. These youth have grown from the roots and will branch out in many directions, but never lose the connection to the roots. Be assured, St. Paul's, that here in Jerusalem, these youth have been Proclaiming Christ in the Heart of THE City. Peace!
Wow - you couldn’t have said it any better! I have always been amazed at this insightful and caring group. Thinking back to when they were in the Rite-13 group I can remember being blown away with their compassion and desire to make a difference in the lives of others. I’m so happy that you, Barbara, Bryan, and David are able to be a part of this incredible experience with them and that we are able to follow everyone’s remarkable journey. Enjoy!