Sillar, is the white volcanic rock that has been used for buildings in Arequipa, hence "the white city." Luke, was our first student to go to Arequipa for service. He has been working with an organization called La Casa Verde that works with street children and now more chidlren that have gone through the courts who are unfit to live with their families because of mistreatment. La Casa Verde provides a refuge for battered children of all ages. Luke has been assisting children with their homework when they get home from school as well as helping prepare dinners. His latest assignment, while the children are not home, is painting a mural that has faded with time.

Luke holds a special place in the hearts of his family. They confide in him, making him part of the family. They are interested and curious about the life he comes from and show him all about theirs. While we were visiting his sister turned seven. He was the official photographer. The family delights in his presence.

After visiting his service assignment and family we visited the Colca Canyon, a canyon deeper than the Grande Canyon. A truly amazing adventure, we experienced Condors swooping overhead, held baby alpacas, hawks land on our hats, saw ancient burial sites on the mountainsides, danced traditional jigs and admired the colorfully unique costumes of the region.