Fr. Jon recognizing the students and adults who went on the mission trip.
On Sunday, July 19 Fr. Jon recognized and celebrated the students and adults who recently returned from a mission trip to the Dominican Republic with Mustard Seed Communities.
Founded by Msgr. Gregory Ramkissoon in Kingston, Jamaica, Mustard Seed Communities cares for abandoned children from birth through the end of their lives. The organization has expanded to the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Ireland, and other locations, inspiring the involvement of high schools, colleges, and parishes across the United States.
Our group from Christ the King learned so much through this mission experience. Themes such as care, compassion, mercy, the preferential option for the poor, and human dignity were naturally woven into the reflections, service, and liturgy.
Fr. Jon welcomed the mission team and leaders to Mass for a special recognition and invited the parish — particularly high school students — to consider participating next summer. Outside, we celebrated on the front lawn with parishioners who eagerly greeted the students and adult leaders who had experienced the warmth of a mission trip firsthand.
Youth leader Robert Daly of Haddonfield Memorial High School invited many friends to join the immersion experience. Robert had already served with Mustard Seed in Jamaica last summer. Reflecting on the experience, Robert described this immersion as “Gospel-filled and life-giving.” While the group enjoyed a beach day and many memorable moments together, the true gift was the opportunity to serve and grow in faith through this mission immersion.
Robert shared that the experience has inspired both his younger brother and sister to become involved in future trips. Like faith as small as a mustard seed, this journey has already begun to bear fruit in the lives of many here in the Haddonfield community.
Sherine Green is Director of Evangelization.