hey! katie here...

we have been here for two days now and i have seen a number of things worth commenting on, but the thing that keeps catching my attention is how unsafe this environment is.

st. david's is blessed to currently be in the process of adding a building to our campus. every thursday we sit down as a staff and have an update, and without fail one issue that always comes up is how to keep everyone safe considering the current project- more specifically, how to keep our youngest members away from harm. we keep doors locked, block off areas with chain-link fence, and post signs- in both engligh AND spanish. and we still worry to come degree.

the last leg of our travel on sunday included a bus trip. i had prepared myself for visions of poverty, and even to see children living and playing amongst the less than wholesome conditions... but it was still strange to see kids playing just feet away from very busy streets. and then i saw a young child run past a manhole... without a cover! i was shocked! no fences or signs. and more shocking- it seems as though this is the norm! our first day on the worksite was interesting, as the children played at the worksite because thier playground is still under construction. kids playing with hammers, chewing on nails... a far cry from what you would experience at the building sight at jeffords hall!

the children and workers are beautiful. I can see a hope and peace in them that makes me mildly envious. sometimes our "blessings" can prove to be a distraction from the one thing that provides true, never ending satisfaction- our Lord Jesus. I'm trilled to call all of them my brothers and sister in Christ and I am thankful for what i have already learned from my short amount of time with them.