Hundreds of people from Hawaii are getting ready to go to Belgium and Rome to celebrate the canonization of Father Damien.
Among them, a group of boy scouts.
Of all the tasks and skills boy scouts train for, this next adventure remains unique. Heading to europe on a pilgrimage to celebrate a saint.
"i'm just so glad that we've gotten this amazing opportunity, it's not everyday that people our age get to experience these big events," said Chris Nishijima of the St. Damien Boy Scouts Troop.
A big event indeed, and they're equipped to make the most out of every bit of it.
"They've attended journalism school, photography, cinematography, they went to video editing, we learned about customs and courtesies, dutch and italian," said group leader John Fielding.
Their focus on this trip though will be on service and selflessness and the man who exemplified both so well -- Father Damien.
"His service at Kalaupapa was that of a selfless ministry that seeded hope and inspiration for those who were banished," said Lt. Governor Duke Aiona
"It's really a perfect example for us of the kind of person who we want our young people to be," said Gary Secor, Honolulu Catholic Diocese.
In all, 9 oahu boy scouts comprise the specially formed st. Damien troop -- they'll even get some camping done near damien's belgium birthplace. And they're going high tech, posting pictures and videos all the way.
"He does plan to follow us on Facebook and Twitter and watch all of our videos"
An upfront seat as history is written.
"The canonization is probably the biggest international event in Hawaii's history since statehood."
