Chaplain's Blog

The fifth day of Camp Kennedy is coming to an end. Today it was really a good day. The stranded passengers received a lot attention not only from the media, but through the media. I received about a dozen calls and emails from people offering their hospitality, who really felt for them. There is no way to express how important it is to have the feedback, that people are concerned, that they simply care for some strangers. I am sure there are many such stories in your lives as well on a daily basis, however, you all know we live in a very disposable society, thus your concerns, phone calls, emails and prayers are very important. Here is the updated situation from Camp Kennedy at Terminal 4 (the biggest group, which is growing to passengers moving from Terminals 1, 3 and 8):

Today it was a major accomplishment in terms of people being able to take showers. It really pleased them a lot. I can see that their morale is much higher. They are happier and we really have a sense village here. Some were lucky enough to leave for Amsterdam (Congratulations upon your graduation from our camp). Others will be leaving around midnight. Throughout the day, they were very well fed, particularly in the evening, when they had a nice meal. Now, I type these words, some of them are watching TV.

Everybody is waiting for tomorrow and possible flights that the day will bring. That is why all your wonderful offers of hospitality we had to decline, because nobody wants to leave the airport at this time. Of course we can't blame them. We would be eager to leave the the place as soon as possible as well. They know about the invisible network of people of goodwill, however they all hope to be gone by tomorrow night or on Wednesday at the latest. Let us hope it is the case. In case the situation turns ugly, I am keeping your phone numbers and emails. Thank you again 

Tomorrow, the Terminal 4 will serve breakfast at 7:00 AM, so they will have a nice good start into hopefully a good day of travel home.

Thank you for your help and support. Goodnight from all of us at Camp Kennedy.