Maryknoll

So today, Thursday, starts the adventure that is Maryknoll Oversees Lay Missoners. Brian and I arrived after our flights at around 1400 and of course we were dropped off at the wrong Maryknoll sight, but luckily we were able to get a ride from one of the priests on sight to the proper location. Again we are staying in dorm style living, but this time with a group of around 24 people of around or own age. It is quite a colorful group with people coming from all different types of backgrounds. I have only experienced the first day so far, but they seem to have put less of an emphasis on the religion and more on the act of helping the poor. The first day, like the end to a chic flick, is very predictable with basic introduction and the rules. They have made a deal of the security issues, almost to the point of beating a dead horse. For example we were given an hour lecture on how there is a presence of lime disease and basically told us that we shouldn’t walk on the grass. It was nice though at the end of the night we had night prayer, without our superiors.
Friday was our first full day of orientation and I have to admit that there were some moments that were rather dry. The presenter did an overall fair job, but I think she tried to put to much material in the time allowed. We ended up doing an arts and crafts project, which known to you all is not my favorite activity. It is very interesting to see the different background, for example we have an elderly couple that are Nazarites (look it up in Numbers 6) and some who believe in the literal translation of the Bible, so needless to say it leads to some interesting conversations. The other kids in the orientation are very nice and seem to have their priorities in the right place for the most part. It is interesting to note that Brian and I are the only ones who don’t return home before going on our mission. It is pretty muggy over here and I am glad that I live in a drier climate.