We had one more full day before heading to the airport later that evening for our overnight flight home. It was hard to believe our week in Ecuador was already coming to an end. We began the morning with our final mission training, this time outside. The beautiful weather and peaceful surroundings made it a wonderful place to reflect on everything we had experienced throughout the week.
Thankful that I, also, got some alone time that morning.
After training, we set out to explore more of Ecuador's culture, beginning with a visit to the BasÃlica del Voto Nacional in Quito, the largest Neo-Gothic basilica in all of South America.
The heart shaped window that the large statue of Mary (that we had seen earlier that week) peers into.
It was absolutely magnificent.
An old car carrying a statue of a former pope was on display in the courtyard.
The architecture was breathtaking, and everywhere we looked there were intricate details that pointed to the incredible craftsmanship that had gone into building it.
I had such a mix of emotions walking through such an incredible building, knowing how much history it held while reflecting on the faith we had witnessed throughout the week.
After exploring the sanctuary, we took an elevator up to the towers and even walking in the "hallway" of sorts was amazing.
We climbed the narrow walkways around the steeple and up a steep set of stairs.
For a few in our group, it was definitely outside their comfort zone!
The views overlooking the city were incredible, and we even spotted the other half of our team exploring from the opposite side of the church and steeples.
Standing there, taking it all in, was a moment I won't soon forget.
We then swapped sides and explored the other steeple and areas around it. Doing so meant several different stairwells, including a spiral one.
Until we climbed to the top...
More amazing views including Mary in the distance.
Along the way down I took a few more fun picutures.
As we walked back to the bus, I found myself grateful for the chance to experience another beautiful part of Ecuador's history and culture. Little did I know, the Lord still had a few unexpected gifts waiting for us before we headed home (part 2).
