Our Rhythm of Life, by JR

I thought it wise to share with those of you following our journey a bit about how we structure our days here in the Holy Land. Our daylight hours are often filled with touring and exploring the numerous holy sites in Israel and the West Bank. I am very aware that often it takes a while for our young people to process what they have seen and heard in each day. But we want to help them integrate what they are seeing with their faith, our world, and their lives. So each night, we gather for a period of reflection and prayer.

Kate or I lead the reflection each evening. We ask the young people a question (or two), and then ask for them to respond one at a time. At the end of each person's response, s/he is asked to invite another member of the group to reflect. The depth of these reflections varies significantly. On the days that we visit places such as the Deheshe Refugee Camp or Yad Vashem, the discussions can be amazingly deep and touching. On days when we are having more fun, such as the day we hiked up Masada, the discussion can be more jovial. In either case, the periods of reflection allow our young people to share with each other their thoughts and feelings, and hopefully grow closer to one another.

After the period of reflection, we close each evening with the service of Compline. Even after a few nights, they were so accustomed to this that they knew what responses came when. We are now inviting the young people to officiate at this service, and they are answering that request with grace and dignity, engaging the leadership abilities that I know are within each of them. - JR