Last Day in London by Ayana
Today was a great day, full of activity. We split into our groups for the last time as we went to our Missionaries of Charity locations, but we soon realized that the Tube was packed (due to the ongoing strike)! Group A had to split up into four groups (with four adult leaders) on 4 separate trains just to get to our destination. When each of us finally got on, we were so cramped that no one could move. As Malik put it yesterday, “You know it’s crowded when you feel a hand on you, and it takes you a minute to realize it’s your own!”
After that adventure, Group A spent our time peeling potatoes and making prayer cards, while Group B spent the morning cleaning the Missionaries of Charity main room. Serving with this organization was absolutely amazing! The sisters at both places spoke about what an inspiration our group has been to them in their faith and ministry. WOW!
After our morning at Missionaries of Charity, both groups split to various activities. One group had the honor of seeing a crypt of Christian martyrs, a private event that was set up by the Missionaries of Charity nuns. Another group went on the London Eye. Yet another group went to the London Bridge and a fourth group went to the London Aquarium.
After our fun events, we settled in for a Sung Eucharist at Westminster Abbey. We had great seats right next to the choir (the lay vicars group), and the music was heavenly! As I walked up for Communion, I was so in awe of the Abbey’s beauty and grandeur that I actually choked up! Fr Dave pulled some strings, and we got to meet the Dean of Westminster, who was nice enough to pose with us for a group picture.
At the beginning of our journey, Fr Dave gave each of us a small cross. He blessed the crosses, and explained that our goal this week was to give away the cross to someone who inspired us to do greater things. Today, our adult leader Hugh gave his cross to Arthur, one of the workers at the Soup Kitchen. The crosses have been a very moving and loving part of our week together.
Tomorrow morning we leave for Canterbury! We are all having a great experience, and we are so thankful once again for everyone’s help.