Campeggio

Here is a blog post about my adventure of the Campeggio with the Church of Saint Giovanni Battista in Induno Olona, Lombardia, Italy. The Campeggio was held in Ceresole Reale, Piemonte, Italy.
I took notes throughout the trip and here are the pieces I strong together for this post. It's a bit long so...brace yourself!

Tuesday 22 July (Day 1)

...and we're off! Seeing Marina waving me away was a bit sad. I'm gonna miss her and the family for this week. It feels a bit strange to be away from them. But it also feels a bit like I'm back in Camerino again. I'm on a bus and there's a guy on the mic speaking in italian but this time there isn't any other languages on the bus - solely italian.
I'd be lying if I didn't say I was a bit nervous but I'd also be lying if I didn't say I was very excited! Right now I'm sitting alone on the bus even though I was hoping for a companion. I'm sure there will be plenty of time for conversation this week as I'm sharing a tent with 9 other girls. In any case, I'm excited to see this camp in action. Marina told me this morning that the Oratorio is an idea founded by St. Giovanni Bosco (St. John Bosco). This Oratorio seems very active with lots of activities for the youth that exceeds the normal catechesis classes and handful of retreats. One of those extra activities is 8 days in the mountains (but as I found out later, it used to be 2 weeks)! This idea of the Oratorio sounds really great and it's awesome to see so many kids united in friendship and anticipation for an event founded on the basis of the faith and it's growth!
The group I'm with is 15-17 year old boys and girls. I was told this morning that it's only the second year they are together in the camp at this age level so that should be interesting. I'm happy there are others my age and older called educators or cooks. The educators participate in the camp but take a bit of a leadership role. The cooks are usually parents who do just that: cook. A very important element to the week! There is also a young priest present (25 years old) who will celebrate mass for us each day and offer other moments of prayer and reflection as well as a lot of fun from what I've heard! He's been there the whole summer however, poor guy, with the little kids, medium, and now superior. I'll have to let you know more once I've experienced a bit. Looking forward to taking you with me on this journey!
Expectations/desires for this week:
Alone time in nature
Increased prayer
Increased silence (we'll see)
Great memories
LOTS of italian
Growth in humility and courage
(7:53 on the bus again - Induno)

I just prayed morning prayer with Don Giuliano and we talked a bit. I asked him about how he discovered his vocation to be a priest and the simplicity in his story was beautiful. It literally lasted 2 minutes. He simply  smiled, chuckled a bit and said that when he was young he saw seminarians (those studying to become priests) at his parish and thought about being one. Then he entered seminary (the school for becoming a priest) at age 12 and became a priest in 1967. His story was that simple and straight forward. What simplicity, fidelity, and trust in the Lord's will. I also asked him what his favorite part of being a priest is and he said the parish. He worked in schools also but he said the parish is most complete because there are all ages, healthy and sick, and lots of youth to work with also. It was really a beautiful conversation and I'm thankful he came and asked me to pray morning prayer with him. I've gone to mass a lot with him at San Paolo but this was the first time we've really had a conversation. I don't think he's staying for the camp but rather just accompanying us on the trip up there. He lead us in prayer when we entered the highway and that was beautiful as well because all was silent and everyone (seemingly so) prayed along. Another beautiful thing is that today is the Feast Day of St. Mary Magdalene in the Ambrosian Rite. She's one of my favorites and I'm happy to have her guidance as I start this campeggio. (8:37 still on the bus)


So each campeggio has a theme and this one is: San Francesco! Remember that I did my semester project from my Renaissance and Reformation Europe History class over him and Chiara? Wow! How about that for confirmation that I should be here?! I am looking forward to a beautiful experience with reflection on Francis, his discovery of the one true question of vocation in our hearts, and community.
I also was able to sneak away this afternoon and do a meditation by the river with the sound of running water - beautiful! It was so wonderful. The river is right near the camp and the water is loud enough to cut off all other sound. With my back facing the people, my eyes on the beautiful creation, and my heart set on the Lord, I was able to enter into a intimate moment of gratitude and reassurance for what is to come in the week ahead.

 

I enjoyed today which was filled with laughter and sports. The camp is split into different teams. My team is yellow and called Frate Sole because the theme is St Francis and he write a canticle to Brother Sun, Mother Earth, Sister Water, and Brother Fire which are appropriately the names of the teams. We played different games(volleyball and soccer) and rotated with who was against who. Throughout the week, there is a competition to see which team can accumulate the most points. And this is also a smart idea because everyone knows that participants give a greater effort when there is something at stake - even if it is just pride!

Now that's a good looking group right there!!!
Edo Tres, Marco, Marti, Simone, Chiara, Davide,
Michele, Giulia (GiDi), Laura, Giulio, and Me

Fanzwa - the Indian seminarian living in Induno Olona this summer and is also at the camp this week - invited me to pray vespers (evening prayer) with him and the young priest Don Stefano this evening. So we did and I made an "appointment" with Don to hear his vocation story. I can't wait!
Also, as a note for my Grandma who is always worried that I am not eating well enough, we are eating probably too good here, and I'm saying this after having only eaten lunch and snacks! That's right, there is a scheduled time for a snack ("merenda" in italian) in the afternoon. Today is was Nutella on toast and hot tea - which, surprisingly for those who know me, I drank and liked. (19:30)

Tonight we played a game called "castle" and is the brain child of one of the seminarians, Matteo Crepaldi. Basically our group of 50 is split in two - one goes and sits together in darkness with their flashlights as a castle. The others wait 15 minutes and begin to search for the castle which is now in darkness. Once the castle sees the lights nearby, they turn theirs on and yell "castle". Immediately the other group cuts their lights and commence to hide. The goal is to enter the castle without being recognized. Therefore when someone from the castle shines on another trying to get in, they start yelling the names of the people that person resembles. If you are recognized, you must enter the castle as a hostage. The game is played twice (switching roles) and the team with the most hostages or who was able to invade without being identified, wins. The game was pretty fun. Difficult for me because I don't really know anyone the way these people know each other. They can identify not just clothing but the way people run or hold themselves. Plus, they have another big advantage over me: they actually know people's names. The game reminded me of something my junior high or high school friends would have liked to do at one of the big get togethers we'd have in the country. The problem with the game is that it can be quite dangerous if you're alone wondering in the dark as was the case for me. But, for me it was a bit of a dream. I was in complete darkness in the woods with the stars shining down on me. I felt like Pocahontas! The downside, I wanted to invade the castle and in my haste slipped a bit and wounded my shin. Fortunately no one saw but unfortunately, with the way I bruise so easily, it'll be very obvious once I am wearing shorts. However, humility is a virtue I need to grow in so...
Overall today was good. Tomorrow is a gita (hike) so we'll see how that goes. They said it'll be easy which should be good to ease me into it. I love being in the mountains with a river nearby and wooded areas. Nature is so beautiful and wonderful to be in but I have to be honest with myself and know that I am not in the greatest shape for walking around in the mountains at a brisk pace much less a leisurely one. But I'm excited none the less! (00:34 in my bed hoping sleep comes soon)

Wednesday 23 July (first hike)
What fatigue! I made the choice to go the second round with the boys and 2 other girls. Man was it difficult but I finished my rosary and now I'm at the top before a beautiful view. Worth it? Yea sure. Haha. It was beautiful to walk it with The Lord however and for awhile we walked across a beautiful meadow with flowers and a small creek of fresh, drinkable, (delicious?) water. I'm scared to go down though because it's very steep. We'll see. Lunch was a nice reward for making it to the top and for the last few minutes I talked in italian to Francesco and he responded in English. He's going to visit America this August and is the cousin of Sr. Elena so I am looking forward to getting to know him better. This conversation also kept me occupied and helped me make it to the top with more ease. Now it's pretty cold up here so I'm wrapped in my pullover and towel. Tomorrow I anticipate sore legs. Very sore legs. (12:45 2551 meters up)


Francesco!

So it started to rain during our descent and I got soaked! But it was awesome! Marina had given me a poncho so my backpack and torso remained dry. I felt like I was in The Lord of the Rings, on The Oregon Trail or some other fantasy land on an epic journey and it made me realize that that's exactly what's happening for all of us except its better because it's reality! Today, my journey was literally on foot in the rain but sometimes in the journey of life, there are other "rains" that come and change our plans or dampen our feet but we must keep going and find our way home to a hot shower and dry socks! (The analogy is going a long way right now because I'm so happily warm and changed into different clothes!)
After returning, we had mass in the dining hall because it continued to rain. Then we had supper and now I am awaiting the bell for coffee. I'm in Italy so I've stopped turning down coffee! Haha!
The camp is still difficult because it's with a lot of familiar faces but no established friendships. However, everyone really is generous with me; giving me a smile when our eyes meet, calling me by name, cheering me on when I'm almost at the peak, and offering their time as I stumble through my italian words. These are some A-class folks here. I'm so blessed! Lord, You are too good to me!!
Also I think I forgot to mention that our tent is fantastic. It is the newest and biggest of the ones here and I hardly feel like I am camping. We are sleeping on cots with 2 layers of cushion on which we place our sleeping bag and cover(s). Some people bring more than one cover because it gets very cold at night here...so they tell me. (20:40 in the tent)

 


It's difficult not being able to spend a holy hour before the blessed sacrament here. I understand that I am with God everywhere and that I certainly can see Him in His creation whether it be the people I meet or the nature I'm surrounded by but there is something different about being in the presence of the Eucharist. It's the way that Jesus Himself decided to leave Himself with us so that we may never be apart, so that we may remember Him. ("Do this in memory of me") Seeing Him in the Eucharist only during mass is not enough for me. And I know that more than ever now. I also know how important prayer and conversation with Love Himself is for my everyday life. It's difficult to find time for it here in campeggio and I find myself missing and longing for those moments of silence and meditation. This for me is also strange a bit because I am usually afraid of or discouraged by silence but here in the midst of around 50 high schoolers, I'm so hungry for it! Just a moment of silence to be alone and talk with my Lord please!

Tonight I was included in the leadership meeting and this gave me a great joy. It reminded me of my days helping lead Teen ACTS Retreats and staffing Aggie Awakening. This meeting was, however, conducted in italian so a bit difficult to contribute to but overall I really enjoyed being there. And after talking about the kids here awhile, I felt inside of me a desire to help them know The Lord and desire His will. So of course I suggested increased prayer. Now, I know that this can be difficult with that age group because at that age I didn't properly know how to pray much less want to and silence scared me but once I found my way into the life of prayer, I found myself transformed and leading a life of more joy, peace, and love than I'd ever known before. I want that for these kids. They are all so great with such beautifully unique capabilities and God has created each of them for a particular purpose. How exciting and wonderful! I want to help them find that purpose so they can achieve the utmost happiness possible in this life and then be overwhelmed by the unspeakable joy of the Lord in the next! And appropriately we talked about St. Francis's call today and his question of "Lord what do you want that I do". The kids were encouraged to reflect on this question and respond! How beautiful! But I'm afraid there wasn't time enough or sufficient desire for reflexion. But what an exciting question! I wish they could feel the same zeal I do for this concept of discovering one's vocation! It really is a thrill and one that doesn't end at its realization but continues throughout one's life as he or she strives to live the vocation in the way intended by the Lord. But, we'll see. As I said, it's difficult with the language barrier but I'm looking forward to being the instrument of the Lord in more ways than just with the spoken word. I don't know what You want Lord or if I will even see the fruit of any works you could be doing in me this week but please allow me to be open to them all the same. (1:00am in the tent headed to bed)

The Leadership Team!
Fuma, Toto, Giulio, Crep, Fanzwa,
Me, Elena, Bea, and Don Stefano

Coorvee
As a side note, I'd like to introduce you to the system of service here in the camp. This is a thing called "coorvee" (it is disputed whether or not it should be spelled "corvee"). The word is French and simply signifies turns or chores. Each day, a different team (of the ones I mentioned earlier) takes up the role of coorvee. The services revolve around the meals. Thus, the coorvee sets the table, serves the food, cleans up the table, and washes the dishes. It's not exactly easy or fun when there are a total of more than 50 people but when your team gets along like mine did and plays music during the work, it's not so bad. I actually found myself enjoying this time. Not only did I get to do some concrete service but I also had the opportunity to bond more with my team and learn about the Italian culture and language as well as teach a bit about America and English which I learned just about everyone is very interested in.

Thursday 24 July

I went to confession in italian today! The priest here, Don Stefano is 25 and very approachable and easy to talk to. He participates in all of the games and activities of the campeggio, eating with us, and even sleeping in a tent too. He also celebrates all of the sacraments for us: mass everyday and confession for around 2 hours today. My confession went well. Beforehand I did my examination of conscience with my handy-dandy italian-English dictionary and had everything written out. And luckily, I understand almost everything in italian so when Don gave me counsel or asked questions I was able to follow. It's been almost 2 months since I've gone to confession and I'm used to going every two weeks in the States so it was really good to go to the sacrament and receive absolution and grace. We talked about prayer at the camp and how it is difficult without adoration of the Blessed Sacrament but it's not that we no longer adore the Lord. We adore Him in the nature which is His creation but also in the height of His creation which is each other. In the community we are building, there are many opportunities for prayer and praise of our Lord. I found myself convicted after this conversation and in a state of embarrassment for my initial impression that there was not much prayer in the camp. And after the first few days, I saw the increase of time in reflection and times set aside for both personal and community prayer.

Edo, Me, and Martina (Marti)

After that, we had lunch and then played a really fun game. I don't know what it is called (or if it even has a name - I think it was invented by a staffer here) but it was simple and wonderful! Everyone had a headband with a number on it and the goal was to call out the numbers of others and hide your own but you couldn't hide it with your hands, clothing or hair. You had to use trees, the ground, other people, or some other creative way you could think of. As in every game, we played with our team (mine's yellow and they're awesome). We must have played for at least an hour. For passers-by we must have seemed like a big grip of tree huggers or people with questionable mental capacity because the most common position was with ones forehead pasted to a tree or two foreheads connected to each other. However, regardless of how we looked, it was a great time and our team won!!
The final thing, Don thinks that my testimony would be good for the kids here being that I'm American and serious about my faith. Thus he proposed that me and the Indian seminarian spend one evening talking about ourselves and taking questions. Surprisingly, I'm really excited about this and hope it is realized. If there is any chance that my story and witness can have an effect on those here, who am I to say no to this? So now I'm gonna go to scribble some things down in anticipation of that evening whenever it'll be.  (17:39 in the tent)

For the activity ("incontro") today, we played a game to get to know each other better. First, ten questions were asked and everyone wrote their answers on a piece of paper. After this, the papers were picked up and redistributed to others in the tent. The goal then was for each person to read the paper they had aloud and try to guess (as a group) who the paper belonged to. This was a bit difficult of course because it was in Italian, but it was beautiful to witness the way that the kids already knew each other and the desire they had to listen attentively and learn something new. It was also the first time I ever heard my language considered beautiful. The paper that I read included the words: "Amsterdam" "Miami beach" and "Hunger Games". You should have seen the faces when I said them and heard the gasps and requests for repetition. One boy asked me to repeat "Amsterdam" (which isn't even a real English word) and as I left I heard "troppo bello" (so beautiful).

Meet Diego.
He wants to go to Amsterdam someday.

That evening we also played a scavenger hunt game. Since there are two foreigners here (Me and Fanzwa, the Indian seminarian), we and Don Stefano were a group for the hunters to encounter. At our station the group had to repeat and translate a phrase that I said in English and then identify where it came from. It was a phrase from the morning reflection. Then to receive the next clue, the group had to accurately pronounce the phrase in Malayalam - the language that Fanzwa speaks in India. It was really funny how frustrated but patient he was with each group who first called his language Indian (there is no "Indian" language) and then butchered the pronunciation. During this time, Don, Fanzwa, and I had a lot of fun talking and laughing uncontrollably about many random things. One of them was the length spent eating. For Italians this is a minimum hour and usually more. At the camp I believe each meal ranged from 1.5 hours to 2 hours. I admitted that my family and I can easily be finished eating in 30 minutes, but Fanzwa had Don thinking he was kidding when he revealed that Indians spend 15 minutes at table.
I wish everyone could have the experience I have had in my life of knowing many young men discerning or newly ordained into the priesthood. It is amazing how there are so many stereotypes and prejudices placed on this men who are expected to all be the same - reserved, strict, prayerful, and intelligent. Yes, this is true for some but each is his own beautifully unique individual, and I have been fortunate to meet many who are so full of life and love for the Lord and the people they minister to. For example, Don Stefano is not noticeably a priest (in the negative sense) unless he is celebrating the sacraments at the camp. He wears regular clothes, participates in the hikes and activities, and has found favor with all of the kids here. It is obvious that he was held in high esteem and well respected by everyone. His life is one of difficulty because of the way he pours himself out for others but he is not without joy. If anything, he is the one at this camp that possesses the most joy.
Tonight we also had a moment of exchanging peace. In a large circle, each person took the time to hug the other as a sign of peace. This was a bit awkward for me since I don't know the people as well but it was a beautiful and sweet moment. To see the embraces that were had between obviously intimate friends and also those who were more distant was a wonderful witness of the hope we should have for peace in the world. At the time our world is in now with the state of the wars in the Middle East and Christian persecution globally, it is important to be to cultivate a community of peace. Tonight was an activity to do just that.
And now, I am in the midst of my first night of Italian girl talk in the tent! But I'll let you in on a secret, girl talk is universal; it is the same things discussed at American sleepovers but done so in Italian. And you know what? I like these girls :)

Bea, Giulia L, Giulia R, Giulia D, Elena, Roberta,
Me, Martina, Laura, Claudia, Chiara

Friday 25 July

Another hike today and I'm exhausted. I think I pulled something in my leg but it sure is great being in the mountains! We went to a small lake where we had lunch and relaxed with games and naps before heading back. I talked with a couple of the girls about the States and am still amazed at the fascination people here have with me being American. Speaking with one of the girls more in depth, Giulia Disconzi (Disco), I learned that since there is this idea of America and the English language in Italia, the fact that an American girl would want to learn to speak italian and come here is a big deal and that for everyone it's pretty awesome! She said that everyone was overwhelmed with both excitement and shyness at the knowledge of an American in little ole Induno Olona. So that's cool! I can tell Giulia is a girl of great depth and I look forward to speaking more with her this week. She is also very good with English even though she doesn't think so herself. [Also, as a side note, the Italians that I've met here in Induno really like to use the last name for creating a nickname. For example, in the camp we have a Disco, Fuma, Crep, Poppo...etc]
Also, during the break of the hike, I discovered a way to make friends or at least impress people here at the camp: shuffle cards. You should see the eyes of those who see me do it. At first I thought it was a joke because it seemed exaggerated but almost all want to learn and enjoy watching me do it.

Laura, Michele, Me, Claudi, and Giulia R.

On the way back down the mountain, I spoke with another Giulia about the high school system in Italy. This is something I find very very interesting. It is also something that I will continue to ask about this week in my fascination. With this Giulia, who attends a Geometry High School, we talked more about the way that sports work. Sports are not in the schools like they are in the States. Instead, usually school ends around 1 pm and then there are sport teams put on by the community that the students can participate in. The system seems more like the club teams we have in the States. The teams play, more or less, all year long and the athletes try out for different teams at different levels in the nearby towns. As in the States, the higher levels are present in the bigger towns. The Giulia I was talking to plays volleyball in Varese which is the province that Induno is located in and therefore the biggest town in the area.
Tonight we are gonna enjoy a tranquil evening because everyone is exhausted. The hike was promised to be short but it lasted for quite some time. At a certain point, I remember "Crep" (Italian seminarian Matteo Crepaldi) repeating that we were almost there several times before it actually rang true. However, the lake we arrived at for lunch was beautiful. I attempted a crossword puzzle with Giulia Disconzi e Michele Ponti before giving up and taking a nap. After, I pulled out my deck of cards for a game of Solitaire (which I actually won) and then discovered the fascination Italians have with the ability to shuffle cards. The way down wasn't as long but still seemed to take a while. The hike was first through a damp forest which I preferred over walking in the sun. The woods had an air of fantasy and enchantment as we climbed over fallen trees and tiptoed from rock to rock over running streams. Therefore, tonight should include mass, supper, and a relaxed game inside the dinning tent. We'll see! (17:18 in the tent - like always)

Saturday 26 July

Giulia L. (GiDi)

The Tortosa's came today to bring Bea, and seeing them was like seeing my family! When I first saw Maurizio smiling at me in the dinning tent my heart swelled with love and happiness. In Italy, the Tortosas have become my little piece of home. I'm so blessed to have had them put into my life.
All is continuing to go well here. I really am falling in love with the italian youth. They are so engaging and full of life. Jumping at all opportunities for adventure and trying new things. The atmosphere is very comfortable and it's obvious that most everyone is totally themselves and abandoned to the present moment. We've done so many activities to build community and learn more about each other. The generosity and love with which each person speaks of and interacts with the others is so beautiful. Of course things aren't perfect but the setting here and this campeggio is really a glimpse of how life is supposed to be I think. People living together in harmony, each bringing his or her gifts and talents. People praying, eating, playing together. And what a beautiful setting for it too: the Italian Alps!

Claudia

I've had a few encounters recently that have made me really happy! They are ones in which I've been assured that my thick and obvious American accent when speaking italian is actually adorable (but not as adorable as when I speak English). Seriously the people practically swoon when I do! But I was under the impression that my accent was annoying and an insult to the language at first. Of course I still want to improve my pronunciation, but I'm feeling more secure now that I know it's at least not an instant turn off for people when I do talk in italian! And speaking of the language, things are getting better and even though I'm still struggling to speak (and read aloud) without mistakes or a lack of smoothness, my understanding and vocabulary are increasing immensely as I hear the same expressions over and over and get a feel for how to use them. It's gonna be a shame to return to the States and be cut off from the necessity of speaking this language all day every day. I only hope I can keep in touch with people from here and the few Italians I know in Texas to keep it up! I don't even want to think of leaving though. Of course I miss home and can't wait to see my family but the experience I'm having here is so incredible. I am certain that it will remain a summer I look back on throughout my life and marvel at the fact that it actually happened. The way I've been embraced by the people here is amazing!
Now we are in the midst of a day-long game of Hunger Games. Before you freak out, it's obviously an edited version and actually very beautiful! First of all, I introduced the game in English which made everyone smile because they love listening to me talk. Especially with the phrase "may the odds be forever in your favor". Then there was a section of reflection to choose their mentor and at least three characteristics about themselves. Next, they had to dress in things and bring things that expressed themselves and finally they had to share a talent. All of this was beautiful because it was so diverse and truly represented the idea that we all come together in the community as Church with our talents, faults, strange abilities, and willingness to share ourselves. The atmosphere is so open here and everyone was comfortable with their sharing and all was received warmly with attention and applause. Tonight the game will finish after supper with a series of games that the participants are permitted to play according to the points they received this afternoon. Some of the games are for single participants and others require the formation of groups and collaborative effort. I'm excited to see how it shapes up and maybe bring the game to the States! (18:25 in the tent)

Sunday 27 July

Matteo Crepaldi, Antonio (Toto'), Fanzwa,
Cristiano (Fuma), Giuilo M.

Today was one of my favorite days in the camp. I didn't go on the hike because of my leg. At the camp, we were put to work first cleaning the bathrooms and campground. And after attending mass in the town in the Roman Rite (which I found difficult because I'm becoming accustomed to that of St. Ambrose), I entered the kitchen where I stayed for most of the day. We prepared the finger foods for The Happy Hour dinner. I helped make little brioches and other delectable treats. When everyone returned, we had the snack and time for reflection. Then time for the happy hour came and we took pictures (finally I have some to show you of my new friends!). I also had great conversations with several of the youth here in both English and italian. We talked about the two cultures and aspects of the language that are difficult for me. It is interesting that a lot of them, who haven't met an American, don't realize how different the accents are between our English and those who are from a different English speaking country such as Great Britain. It's also interesting that a person forms the accent of the English they learn. For example, Michele spent some time studying English in Ireland, therefore he has an Irish accent when he speaks English. He is also very good with his English and if the first words he had said to me were English, I might have mistaken him for Irish. Again, the high school system here in Italia amazes me every time and I always have questions for the students. It also is so strange but beautiful that one person can talk to me in English and the other in Italian but I understand both and almost don't notice that they are different languages! Another topic we covered on the differences between English and Italian was animal sounds. And let me tell you, some are vastly different. Finally, we ended the day with an outdoor game that afforded me time to talk more with a few of the girls here (specifically Martina, Laura, and Chiara) and I cherished this time very much. Now I'm wrapped up in my sleeping bag because it's cold and I'm tired! Tomorrow is the last hike which is supposed to be easy (we hope) and beautiful (it better be). So I better hit the sack! Night night! (00:18 in my sleeping bag).

The cooks who kept us well fed and the brioches we made for Happy Hour.

Monday 28 July  (L'ultima Gita)

Me before "Gran Paradiso". How appropriate a name.

Today we took a bus up a mountain to the start of our leisurely last hike. It was so beautiful there - like a fairytale world that only Tolkien or Disney could dream up - but this is reality and it's Creator is far greater than the most imaginative minds.
During the short hike, I talked with Don Stefano about his personal story and journey to become a priest. (Might I remind you he is 25 and is just nearly in his second year as a priest.) It was a beautiful tale of simplicity and the pursuit of happiness that he discovered, for him, was found in the priesthood.
Arriving back at the refuge around 1:30, we discovered the next bus didn't return until 5:00. Therefore, we had mass in a beautiful outdoor location with an altar and mosaic of Our Lady.

After mass, with 3 hours to spare, Giulio, Elena, Bea, and I started on the "toti". These are phrases for each person that recount something that happened throughout the camp. This is in fact very difficult especially when you just met the people and are new to the language, but fun all the same. I love passing time with these guys. We spent most of it huddled in Don Stefano's car while the wind howled and rain poured outside.
When 5:00 finally rolled around, the rain had stopped thank goodness, and we loaded up to head out. I had a conversation with Luca, Marco, Giammi, Michele, and Simone half in English and half in italian. They love hearing me speak in English, especially quotes or names from Harry Potter or other types of American entertainment. We also talked about stereotypes and accents in the US. Unfortunately I'm not good with accents so I couldnt accurately explain how different East Texas is from South Central much less from New York.
Returning to the camp we showered up and passed time in the tent until prayer and small group time. My small group is so great and so many people contribute and have such profound things to say. My group consisted of Luca L., Luca, Glaudia, Davide, Laura, Michele, Elena, Pietro and Edoardo (twins), and Stefano - I partly write that for my own memory later. We talked about love and ways to express it as well as what it means to live the way that Christ lived. The things that some of these high school age Italians had to say really surprised me. With this I was very content! One of them, Davide, even talked about the five love languages! How beautiful! I shared with them my preference of the two different ways of saying "I love you" in italian. One is "ti voglio bene" which literally means "I want your good". Through John Paul II's Theology of the Body, I learned that love is gift of self and willing the good of the other regardless of the cost to oneself and therefore this way of saying "I love you" has such a deeper meaning. "I want your good" - how beautiful! This however surprised the Italians because for them they don't think of it this way in the sense that italian is not my first language so I literally translated it when learning it. But for them, it just is and they don't think of it as much as I do. But in any case, these kids are so "bravi" to use the perfect italian word.

Me, Elena, and Bea on the last hike

Supper was lasagna (yum!) and my squadra (gialli - "sunny guys") did the dishes together since it was our turn. Dishes for around 50 people (especially with the classic 2 course Italian meals) is not a simple or easy matter. It's actually quite fatiguing and a bit on the annoying side but I love my team and we are quite efficient if I might say so myself!
Then after supper we played a game with the theme of the World Cup. Each team had a turn and picked a country whose flag was on the poster. The game leaders (Elena and Giulio) then looked to see what that country did in the game. It was either a bonus, minus, game, or nothing. Most of the turns were games and these games gave each team a chance to gain points. The games were all very creative. One involved recognizing animal noises made by a team member, another involved recognizing a song whistled by a team member, and one even involved writing the historical event in a list of dates in 5 minutes. At the end of the game the points were added up and (dun dun dun dunnnn) Gialli won!!

This was followed by "la veglia" which I discovered is basically a candle light prayer vigil. This ended near 12:30 and now I'm finally in bed listening and struggling to follow the girl talk happening in my tent right now. Partly because I'm typing and thinking in english  at the same time but also because it's hard to follow this kind of talk in italian anyways. But I want to try so I'm gonna go now! (01:24 in the tent)

Tuesday 29 July (Sadly, the last full day)

We had a tender moment at mass today during the sign of peace when we again all exchanged hugs. Many people had tears in their eyes as they recognized that our time together was quickly coming to an end.

Today we also presented the "Toti" (which I mentioned earlier as the phrases recounting the week's events) as if they were awards. "Toti 2014 A-zi-zi: the phrase here". After it is read aloud the kids have to guess who it goes to. It was another activity that showed just how much a community really was formed throughout our time together. Each person had at least 2 toti and therefore the night was split up also in skits or games put on by the different teams. I'm very happy with the toti that I received. I helped make them but did not see mine and for me it was a surprise. I had 3 toti. The first was "No Coffee, Si Caffe" because throughout the week I commented on the fact that I don't drink American coffee but I drink Italian coffee ("caffe"). My exact words in Italian were "Non bevo coffee. Bevo caffe." My second toto was "Literally". It recalled an event of me truly being myself with my little one word side comments. One evening before Night Prayer with the Educators and Don, Giulio responded to Elena's "Grazie" normally after passing her a book with "prego". In Italian, "prego" means both "I pray" and "you're welcome." Therefore, since we were about to pray, I said "literally" after this comment by Giulio. The funniest part, was that everyone was perplexed because it was really late, we were all tired and no one understood what I had said or why I was laughing. What was even worse was that I couldn't figure out how to explain it either until we all had the realization that a cognate existed: letteralmente. We are still in a dispute about which of these words (literally or letteralmente) are easier to pronounce. And my final toto is my favorite: "Nulla mi ferma...neanche la lingua." (Nothing Stops Me...Not Even the Language). This represented my determination to continue throwing myself into conversations and always trying to speak the language even when I didn't know how or was having a very difficult time. I was very content with this toto because when it was presented to me, everyone seemed to be in agreement on it and since I usually feel that I don't try enough to participate, I was very well pleased. It was a tender moment for me when Giulio explained it as he presented it to me.
I also passed a lot of time with Michele and Giulia (Disco) discussing American and Italian things in both languages this afternoon. I really enjoyed this time as it was a real sharing between friends. I talked about how I prefer Induno over Rome and their mouths were left open in amazement but for me it is a simple choice. Why? Because here (Induno and campeggio) it is authentically Italian. There aren't any tourists. There are merely people living their everyday lives and to have the privilege of entering into that routine and getting to experience it first hand for me is a dream. I am also biased now because I love the people in this town so much.

Marco, Luca L., and Simone depicting
a soldier, Jesus, and the Blessed Mother

Tonight, after the toti, I got to talk to Luca about my future a bit and what it is that I want to do with my life. It was nice to have someone genuinely interested and giving me an attentive ear even when I was struggling with the language. After all, it was very late since the last day is always a late one. Our curfew was 2 am and until that time, those who wanted to, stayed in the dining tent and played games. However, I was a bit out of it in my tiredness so I "played" with Michele in a card/board game while doodling on a piece of paper and enjoying small talk.
When 2 am rolled around, despite my exhaustion, I wanted to remain in the tent and spend more time with these new found friends. I realized that I'm really going to miss everyone here and I don't want to cry but I can't deny the feelings I have now. It's like leaving Camerino all over again but maybe even worse. The kids here; they are so great and I have such a strong desire to speak with them more, learn more about and from them as well as help them in their journey to find the purpose for which they were placed in this world and how to follow God's will. I desire to continue relationships and know what is going on with their lives in the future. Leaving will be difficult but I must stay strong and remember to be thankful for the time spent here and understand that I have purpose elsewhere now. (2:32 in bed)

Wednesday 30 July (Departure Day)

Wrapping up the campeggio has me in a sad state. I had to say goodbye to some new friends (Giulio, Elena, and Don Stefano). They are staying here for a bit longer.
This morning I discovered my protector this week was Giulia (Disco) who I talked with a lot and who is very talented with music. At the beginning of the camp we each drew a name out of a hat of a person to "protect" throughout the week with prayers, little gifts/letters, and small talk. The protectors were all kept a secret until the last day. I protected a lovely girl named Roberta.
There was a moment when I felt very special this morning because Michele and Laura wanted to sit by me in the dining tent. It's always good to be wanted and to have your presence desired/appreciated. I'm definitely going to miss these people and hope to keep up with them at least some through Facebook and other technological means. It's only been a week but it's hard to imagine my life without them already.

Me, Michele, and Giulia L (braiding my hair)

I was asked this morning what I miss most from home and I didn't answer this, but I think it's the security of seeing my friends indefinitely. While I'm here, I always have a date (10 Aug for example) in my head that marks when I leave Italy and all of my new found friends. And this is something I don't want to do but can't do anything about. Fortunately, I always have the Lord, the One who binds us all together and the One who makes it possible for us to all be together again for eternity. This is my hope and consolation amidst my dread of the goodbyes. It's also hard because I see the others be sad as well and can't help but think that at least they live in the same town and will see each other again soon. How much I'd love to stay and follow the lives of these youth here. How interested I am in their lives, their likes and dislikes, their opinions, their dreams and heart's desires, and how the Lord is working in their lives. I've never been so interested in others who I've just met in a way that is more than just curiosity but genuine affection. What a beautiful but difficult thing to feel being that I have to leave them now. But I can trust that they will always be with me in my heart and I will continue to pray for them and for their futures who are shining bright in my eyes.
Before leaving the camp, our final act was a "baptism" for those who made their first campeggio and so I had water poured over the back of my head. How beautiful to participate in this tradition of the campeggio even though it was very cold! (14:54 on the bus)

Now, as I sit before my computer trying to convince myself to finish and publish this post, my heart is heavy with feelings I am not certain how to express. On one hand, I am still reeling at the fact that this summer has actually happened for me (and in reality is not yet over). On the other hand, my heart is torn at the thought of leaving this place, culture, Catholic Church Rite (Ambrosian), language (in its daily use), but most especially these people. I was asked today what my favorite part of Italy has been and without hesitation the people is hands down the right answer. I can't express how blessed I feel to have been put in the places I have been to be able to make the relationships that I have made and learn from and grow in the presence of those that I have been placed in the midst of. And now, with the end close enough for me to see it, I think my heart is confused. In one sense it wants to jump around and dance for joy because it is bursting at the seams with love and gratitude. But it is also on the brink of crumbling in the sorrow of leaving a place that feels, smells, looks like home (if it quacks, walks, and talks like a duck then it is one right?). And even as I remind myself of what I discovered when leaving Camerino - that it's only hard because of how amazing it was - I still don't know how to free my heart of this sadness. How do I tell my heart that it has to leave now, after it has poured itself out in acts of courageous participation in new things and surrendering to the treacherous act of allowing others in? How do I rid myself of the burning feeling in the pit of my chest?...and at the same time the other question I can't deny is: do I really want to and why? After all, there is a beauty in a heart struggling under the weight of so much love. (22:00 at Marina's house)

As an ending note especially to those of my new Italian friends who decided to tackle the feat of reading this in English, I need to say that it is impossible to comment on each of you and your beautiful uniqueness. But, you should know that each of you made an impact on my life and I want you to know that you are all beautifully and wonderfully made. This campeggio will always be one I look back on in pure joy at the community that was built in this past week and at the relationships that I made if even just for these days. You have my love and prayers always. Never hesitate to come to me via Skype, Facebook, or whatsapp for anything that I may be able to do for you. I would love to share in your future in some form or fashion. Finally, I hope that you find the answer to that one question of vocation burning deep in your heart, and I hope you find it in the Lord (where it no doubt lies) who holds all of us in existence by His undying love.
A tutti dal campeggio: e' impossibile per me parlare di ogni persona ma dovreste sapere che ciascuno di voi e' speciale per me. Non dimentichero' mai questa settimana di campeggio. Prego per voi sempre e vi voglio tanto bene. Per favore chiedete (via Skype, Facebook, Whatsapp) quando posso fare qualcosa per te. Non saro' a Induno, ma tutti di voi sarete per sempre nel mio cuore. Non fermate cercando per la risposta alla domanda nei vostri cuori, e spero che voi trovate la risposta nel Signore chi ci ama sempre. Ciao per ora!

And finally, a song to take us back to camp which is ironically American...