With tears and pledges to return the participants of the 2005 CYMA trip left Armenia on July 27. After completing a four week program that included internships traveling throughout Armenia the group felt renewed, enlightened and a little sad to leave the Motherland.

The one month spent in Armenia has made an indelible impact on the lives of those who participated. During their time in the Motherland the group regularly contributed to the CYMA Blog (www.cyma-wd.org/blog). They have posted their reflections about this amazing trip online.

“Unfortunately, our trip has come to an end and most of us are already back “home.” As I write this blog I can’t help but be overwhelmed by emotions and tears. CYMA was the best experience of my life in every aspect, spiritually, intellectually, and socially. It was an unbelievable growing experience that will not only never be forgotten but will stick out as one of the greatest times of my life,” wrote Lisa Hosboyar upon her return home.

Reflecting on the bonds she developed with her fellow CYMA interns Noughig Nahabedian from Manchester, UK writes “Whilst they were here I didn’t realize how much I got to know them and love them. It sounds ridiculous, loving 12 other people in the space of a month, but it’s true. It really did just happen. This trip has opened up my knowledge of some of the most amazing people out there, people who share the same opinion, same ancestry, and same motherland as me.”

The completion of the second CYMA mission the Western Diocese has clearly established a new tradition in the lives of their youth. This trip represents a commitment to the mission on behalf of the Church and from now on it will continue to grow and provide the youth with the opportunity to grow in spirituality and Christian fellowship while discovering their motherland.

For more information on how to participate in next years Christian Youth Missin to Armenia, including pictures and blog entries from this year’s trip, please visit www.cyma-wd.org.x

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