Over the summer, 32 students and adults (many from our Prep community) traveled to Vanceburg, Kentucky, to participate in an annual mission trip. This trip began in 1972 out of the Diocese of Erie, and hundreds of young people have been touched by this life-changing experience of service and friendship.
Led by Fr. Mike DeMartinis and a team of adults from the diocese, this trip challenges young people to grow in their faith while serving others and living in an intentional Christian community for a week. The trip included daily morning masses at the Glen Springs Chapel where the group made their camp, daily service opportunities, evening revivals, and visits to nearby church communities for shared praise and worship services. The group is hosted for dinner at several of these and hosts several meals for the local community and the Holy Redeemer Catholic Church family. It's outdoor living at its best! Service projects included Vacation Bible School for dozens of children, a free car wash, work at the local animal shelter and rescue, small repairs, painting projects, landscaping, and visiting the local nursing home where the group sang and prayed with the residents. Evenings included campfires, hot dog roasts, s'mores, personal and community spiritual reflection time and sharing, and just hanging out and music with local musicians.
This trip is open to any youth who have completed their freshman year of high school, and applications are available in the early spring at school, through Fr. Mike, and at the 7:30 p.m. TEEN Mass at Blessed Sacrament Church.
