Majdi, Palestine

“My overall impression of the trip is one of deep gratitude. Seeing the ship as a school of life was truly the right context for this experience. On the first day, when the sea was at its roughest, most of us felt either sick or afraid. For the first few hours, I stayed apart from everyone and managed not to get sick. But when I returned and saw the many pale, suffering faces, I immediately felt ill myself and ended up throwing up. After a short nap, I gathered myself and returned to try to assist those who were still struggling.

The boat and the small sea around us continually reminded me of episodes from the life of Jesus on the Sea of Galilee. In the midst of everything, during my moments of prayer, I asked God to reveal Himself in the faces of the brothers and sisters on the boat. And He truly did—whether in the vulnerable or the steady, in the words of those who agreed with me and in the voices of those who disagreed. God was present on the boat, and I was aware of His presence almost all the time. Doubts crossed my mind now and then, but He always found a way to reassure me—in a smile, in a small question, or in the quiet voice that speaks to my heart before sleep.

From this trip, I can say that my faith, hope, and love have grown, and that is priceless. I feel more assured in my vocation, especially because I have received more brothers and sisters—the very gift the Teacher promised to those who follow Him.

Now that I am back on land, I try to see each person I meet as vulnerable as we all were on that first day at sea. I want to bring peace into hearts and nurture trust in relationships, because for me, these are the solid foundation for political stability and for ending armed conflicts on an international level. »

With gratitude »

Majdi