On The Way To Italy Thursday, September 11, 2008

The Italy-bound youth group gathered at VGR just before 8:00 AM on Wednesday, and loaded the shuttle to go to the airport. After a short fellowship and a word of prayer, they were on their way! Excited was not the word for it, as they were under such great anticipation, that it was clearly evident on every face.

The group arrived at the airport in Venice, Italy at 11:00 AM on Thursday. They were tired from their long journey but ready to do some sightseeing in this ancient city that is famed for having canals instead of roads.

A short bus ride later, they were given a sack lunch and then jumped into two water taxis for a ride through the famous Grand Canal that winds its way through the very heart of Venice.

Unloading at the Rialto Bridge, everyone stopped and ate their lunches on the steps of the bridge and were then ready for a grand tour.

Walking down the tiny byways and busy walkways of this city that thrives on tourism was an eye-opening experience. The city is full of shops selling designer clothing, accessories and, of course, the many t-shirts and knickknacks that tourists love so much.

The YF group stood out in the crowded city from the masses of worldly dressed people; and as the girls with their long hair and modest apparel shopped together, their very presence was a testimony of the grace of the Lord in their lives.

As they walked through Venice their cameras snapped picture after picture, just as many other tour groups have done for years in this beautiful city. However, as they departed on the water taxi that was taking them back to the bus, there was a different twist to this tour group.

In Venice the gondola boatman are famous for singing to their clients; however, on this trip, our youth sang hymns of praise and their voices rang through the city as they poured out their hearts to Him.

We were so blessed by His presence, and we look forward to what the Lord has in store for this weekend.