We had a fantastic morning yesterday, as the Sicily group gathered together at Grace Church. There are seven of us traveling to Sicily from Grace; with two men and five women. We range from 19-years old to mid-50’s (I swore an oath of secrecy on that last number). We come from a variety of backgrounds. We bring a wide range of travel experience. We have different political views, and despite Sofie’s insistence, we cannot all agree that the Dallas Cowboys are the best team in the NFL.

However, we do have a few things in common. We all want to show people who are part of the African refugee crisis that we care. We want to offer love. We want to give them support. We want to look them in the eye and tell them, show them that they matter.

Our friend, Shane suggests that there are two statements we can make to every refugee we see on the streets of Catania and Palermo. First, we can say that we are glad that they made it safe. These men, women, and children witnessed death and abuse in their journey. Of this, there is no doubt. One traveler told our friend that his boat, which started with 150 passengers when it left the coast of Libya, was rescued with only 15 survivors remaining on the raft. All others drown during a violent storm that came up during the night. He was one of a handful on that craft that made it safely to shore, and we are grateful.

Second, we can ask if their family is aware that they are safe. Many, especially the young men we will meet, left mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers. Most have relations who are worried about them. All want to be loved and connected.

And so, on Saturday morning, surrounded by friends and family in room 111 of Grace Church, we discussed the “why” of our trip. We gratefully received warm hugs and handshakes, friendly support, and meaningful prayer as we prepare to go and ask questions and listen to answers of foreigners in a foreign land.

After our loved ones left, the Sicily team remained in the room for a brief time to go over some of the final logistics. These included a review of our ever-changing schedule and packing a suitcase with coloring books, colored pencils, a dozen decks of Uno cards, air pumps for soccer balls, and fall decorations for our host family.

The energy of the group is very high. For some, it is difficult to contain the excitement. For others, it is difficult to hold the tears. For all, we just want to get on the ground and start walking.