Arrival in Florence – A New Adventure Begins (2/27/2025) After a long 24-hour journey, the Summit Christian Academy seniors and chaperones finally arrived in Florence, Italy. Greeted warmly by Joy, Tim, Steve, and Paulo, the group made their way to Segreteria Villa, their home for the coming days. As the sun set over the Tuscan hills, the students caught their first glimpse of the vineyard-covered landscape, setting the stage for a week filled with faith, history, and adventure.
A Spiritual Call to Awareness (2/28/2025) The group began their day with a devotional from Luke 19:1-10, reflecting on Zacchaeus’ desire to see Jesus and how that encounter changed his life. The challenge was set: to remain spiritually aware even while touring, to recognize people who might need prayers, and to be ready to share the love of Christ.
The day’s exploration led them to Lucca and Pisa. In Lucca, the students marveled at the ancient city walls and walked through narrow streets reminiscent of movie scenes. They enjoyed an authentic Italian experience—lunch in a historic square accompanied by an accordion player. Visiting a grand Catholic Church, some climbed the bell tower for a breathtaking view. In Pisa, students took iconic photos at the Leaning Tower while others ascended it for a panoramic perspective.
That evening, the group reflected on the beauty of Italy, the history surrounding them, and their call to see God’s hand in each moment. Prayers were lifted for awareness, spiritual growth, and the hearts of students still seeking God’s direction in their lives.
Florence – A City of History and Faith (3/1/2025) Navigating Florence like seasoned travelers, the students embraced the lively street markets, practicing their bargaining skills. Lunch at a bustling indoor market offered fresh Italian flavors and, of course, more gelato.
A highlight of the day was visiting Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, a stunning structure built over 140 years to honor God. The intricate carvings and breathtaking ceiling paintings left a lasting impression. One student summed it up: “I loved it so much, I didn’t want to leave.”
The devotional focused on Genesis 16:1-16—the story of Hagar, who felt unseen but was comforted by the God who sees. Students were encouraged to acknowledge those around them who might feel invisible and extend love and kindness.
Worship and the Vine (3/2/2025) Splitting into two groups, the students attended different evangelical churches, experiencing worship in an unfamiliar language yet feeling the presence of God. At the vineyard, Giovanni’s lesson on John 15:1-10 deepened their understanding of God’s nurturing care. Seeing firsthand how a gardener tends to the vine brought new meaning to Jesus’ words.
Rome – Walking Through History (3/3-4/2025) The visit to Rome was both exhilarating and sobering. Standing before the Colosseum, students reflected on its history of martyrdom. The prison where Peter and Paul were detained left a deep impact, reminding them of the sacrifices made to spread the Gospel. One student, moved by Paul’s unwavering faith, revisited Acts to understand his final days.
Unexpected highlights included a spontaneous stop at St. Anthony’s Portuguese Cathedral, where the group sat in awe, embracing the quiet reverence of the space. The Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and Vatican Basilica showcased Rome’s grandeur, but it was the students’ reflections that mattered most. “I was really moved to pray for the people waiting in line to enter the Basilica,” one student shared. “I prayed they would understand that they don’t need a specific place to find God.”
Serving at the Distribution Center and Local School (3/5-6/2025) The students eagerly jumped into serving at a food distribution center, assembling boxes and labeling jars of pesto with efficiency and joy. At a local school, they engaged with Italian students, many of whom opened up about the pressures of their education system. One student shared, “A girl told me, ‘You are lucky. School is depressing here. We cry a lot.’ I realized how blessed I am to be at Summit Christian Academy.”
The sports camp was another highlight, where language barriers disappeared through shared laughter and play. Watching their students include and encourage every child was a proud moment for the leaders. “They understood the assignment,” Mrs. G noted with joy.
A Journey of Faith and Growth
As the trip drew to a close, students reflected on how their experiences deepened their faith. They saw God’s hand in history, in the beauty of creation, and in the lives of those they met. Prayers were answered, hearts were softened, and seeds of faith were planted.
This journey was more than sightseeing—it was an encounter with God’s presence in unexpected places. For these students, Italy was not just a destination; it was a catalyst for spiritual growth, a reminder that God sees them, and an invitation to see others through His eyes.