In a world filled with uncertainties, sometimes we are granted the opportunity to witness extraordinary events unfold right before our eyes. The past few days have been nothing short of miraculous for The Cruising De la Cruzes, as they embarked on a journey that would test their faith, bring them closer together as a family, and reaffirm their belief in the power of prayer.
It all began when Karen received a special invitation from her friend John. Having met during their time as full-time missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the Provo Missionary Training Center, they were now reuniting at the FSY of Occidental and Oriental Mindoro. Karen was asked to teach about the responsible use of technology, guided by the theme "I can do all things through Christ which strengthened me" (Philippians 4:13).
As the plans were set in motion for the momentous event, a hurdle appeared when Royce was informed that he couldn't take a holiday in July. Unwilling to give up on the opportunity, he and Karen turned to heartfelt prayer. Miraculously, their prayers were answered, and Royce received the much-needed permission to finally take a holiday.
As the event drew near, the participants from Occidental and Oriental Mindoro turned to the power of collective fasting and prayer, seeking divine intervention for favorable weather conditions. They posted on their Facebook page, rallying their community to join them in their petition to the heavens.

True to the saying, "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find" (Matthew 7:7), their heartfelt prayers were answered. In a remarkable display of divine favor, the storm has moved north! Although it will likely rain during the week, the wind shouldn't be strong enough to stop the ships from traveling. With the weather now on their side, the Youth and their leaders were filled with renewed hope and determination as they prepared to embark on their journey. They were humbled by the realization that their prayers had been answered, and they saw this as a clear sign of divine intervention guiding them on their path. With hearts full of gratitude and faith, they set forth, ready to overcome any challenges that may come their way, knowing that they were not alone in this adventure.

On July 23, The Cruising De la Cruzes began their adventure by attending Church before traveling to Cavite to bond with the extended De la Cruz family. The following day, they set off for Forest Crest in Nasugbu, Batangas, where they had the joyous opportunity of reconnecting with old friends and introducing their beautiful families to one another.
Navigating through the adverse weather conditions wasn't easy, but nothing could deter their determination. The Youth and their leaders made it to the last trip from Occidental and Oriental Mindoro to Batangas before the Philippine Coast Guard suspended further travel for the day, uncertain of when the next opportunity would arise.
The journey from Occidental and Oriental Mindoro to Batangas involves crossing the sea, as the two regions are separated by water. There are several ways to travel between the two places, but the most common and convenient mode of transportation is through a RORO (Roll-on/Roll-off) ferry.
To start the journey, participants and leaders would have to reach a designated port in Mindoro, such as the Abra de Ilog Port or the Mamburao Port. These ports are commonly used for ferry services to Batangas. Travelers can reach these ports via local buses, vans, or private vehicles, depending on their starting location within Mindoro.
The RORO ferries operate on a regular schedule, but it's essential to check the ferry departure times in advance, especially during adverse weather conditions or peak travel seasons. The ferry ride from Occidental and Oriental Mindoro to Batangas usually takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the specific route and weather conditions.
Upon arriving at Batangas Port, participants and leaders would then proceed with their onward journey to their destination in Nasugbu, Batangas, where the event was held. This can be done by taking local buses, vans, or arranging private transportation to reach Forest Crest, the venue where they spent quality time together and learned valuable lessons about faith and responsible technology use.
Throughout this journey, the participants and leaders showcased their unwavering determination and belief in the power of prayer. Despite the challenges posed by the adverse weather conditions, they remained steadfast and reached their destination, experiencing firsthand the miracles that can unfold when hearts are turned to a higher power.
The trip from Occidental and Oriental Mindoro to Batangas not only brought them physically closer but also strengthened their bonds as a group, fostering a sense of camaraderie and a shared belief in the miraculous power of faith. It served as a testament to the idea that with determination, perseverance, and unwavering trust in a higher power, even the most challenging journeys can be conquered and blessings can be received.
July 25 marked a pivotal moment for Karen, as she took the stage to teach, supported by her Assistant Coordinator. The experience was not only fulfilling, but it also fostered a deep bond between them. As the day concluded, the coordinators and teachers shared their spiritual experiences, reinforcing their belief that this was the Lord's work and that indeed, "with God, all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26).
And so, amidst the backdrop of their remarkable journey, John, Lora, Royce, and Karen took the obligatory picture, capturing a moment of wonderful reunion. It was a sight filled with nostalgia and gratitude, for John, Royce, and Karen shared a special bond under the guidance of President Joseph F. Boone during their time at the Missionary Training Center. Their hearts swelled with joy, grateful for the opportunity to witness the power of faith in rekindling relationships and the remarkable alignment of destiny that brought them back together.
With the event now concluded, The Cruising De la Cruzes reflected on the miracles they had encountered during their journey. They had witnessed the unwavering power of prayer, the blessings of answered petitions, and the transformative strength of faith. The journey had not only brought them physically closer but had also deepened their connection to each other and their shared beliefs.
As they bid their farewells and began their respective paths homeward, they knew that this journey had left an indelible mark on their hearts. They would carry the memories of this remarkable experience, the bonds forged, and the lessons learned with them forever.
The Cruising De la Cruzes' journey had truly been a tale of faith, family, and answered prayers. It served as a reminder that in life's uncertainties and adversities, turning to a higher power and embracing the strength of unity can lead to miracles and blessings beyond imagination.
Their return journey was not without its challenges, but The Cruising De la Cruzes held steadfast to their faith. As they passed through the foggy roads of Tagaytay, they leaned on prayer and found their way home safely. Even more incredibly, their reliable car's fuel tank remained almost full, a testament to the blessings they received on their journey.
May the journey of The Cruising De la Cruzes serve as an inspiring reminder that with faith as our compass, love as our driving force, and prayer as our guiding light, we can navigate through life's challenges, finding ourselves in the embrace of miracles along the way.