After a night punctuated by the cacophony of rain on metal
roofs, day broke to more or less clear skies. Unfortunately, coffee eluded the
early risers, but breakfast was bountiful, albeit slow in arriving. After all,
how fast can one waitress and one chef provide a cooked-to-order breakfast for
twenty-six people???
Three loaded vans transported the group to Anse-le-raye for
mass at the Catholic Church. Some of us had a peek at the Earth Boxes planted
last November and the tomato plants growing there. Father Athanase Joseph, our
host and mentor, celebrated the mass accompanied by a choir of young,
enthusiastic, robust voices as well as several young musicians. Members of the
congregation kindly offer assistance in helping some of us navigate through the
service. Our team leader, Bud, presented to the congregation an overview of
Global Volunteers and the reason for its presence in Anse-le-raye. Referencing
his message of calling and commitment, Father Athanase enlightened the
volunteers about the importance of making connections in the community and some
of the cultural background likely to impact volunteer efforts.
Following a buffet lunch, a three plus hour orientation with
all assembled included a review of the inter-relationship of the Twelve
Essential Services and the generation of
the following goals for the two weeks:
To stimulate life
long skills
To promoted the
twelve essential services
To build
relationships/friendships
To learn the St.
Lucian culture
To be a servant
learner
To enjoy the
experience
To grow personally
Fifteen characters of an effective team morphed into a super
team of twenty-some highly desirable qualities and we all promised to do out
best to exhibit these qualities. A quick overview of Global policies and health
and safety guidelines was given. Remember to keep rested, comfortably cool,
well hydrated and adequately fed and “safety trumps everything”! Project groups
met to discern their anticipated goals for Monday and reported their plans at
dinner.
It was a long day. Bed couldn’t come soon enough for
volunteers and team leaders alike.
- Betsy
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