Upon the news of my partaking in Gospel Roads, many of my friends and family questioned my decision. Before this trip, I was a stagnant member of the parish. I had never attended a mission trip, much less served in my own community. It was unlike me to choose to participate in something I was so clearly inexperienced with. It was such a radical decision that I often doubted myself. But in the months of our preparation for the trip it became apparent: He was calling me to find my way back to Him. This was His way to rekindle with me. This was my chance to know Him through service.
Each day during Gospel Roads was a milestone in my journey to a stronger faith. Each day, we would spend in the streets of Toronto either handing out food to the hungry, making beds for the homeless or simply playing with young children. The work sites we visited would often leave me physically exhausted. But each night, as we reflected in prayer I would come to realize how spiritually "rested" I've become. The "work" was not work but an experience in which Christ was encountered. The volunteers and Salesians I came across exemplified Christ in their selfless actions. Those we served reflected Christ, humbling us with their happiness. Serving has taught me the fullness and joy of acting with the love of God.
One particular work site called Aid for Women made me feel a strong presence of Christ. The pro-life organization opposes a well-known clinic in the area. That day, we stood in the streets holding signs supporting life. And with our rosaries we stood united in prayer. Despite the noisy streets of the city, I had never felt so at peace. This was because we were spreading the gospel to choose Christ.
Gospel Roads propelled me to a better understanding of my faith. It has shown me the beauty that results when we choose Christ in our lives. It has humbled me and enlightened me in ways I could not have imagined. I am so thankful to St. Benedict's parish for welcoming us into their community. I am also thankful for those who helped make our trip possible. The hearts of those I encountered, of whom I served and served with will remain my inspirations and in my prayers as I continue my walk on the gospel road.
[This reflection is written by Stephanie Kaye Miflores who recently went on a mission trip with Gospel Roads in Toronto, Canada.]
Each day during Gospel Roads was a milestone in my journey to a stronger faith. Each day, we would spend in the streets of Toronto either handing out food to the hungry, making beds for the homeless or simply playing with young children. The work sites we visited would often leave me physically exhausted. But each night, as we reflected in prayer I would come to realize how spiritually "rested" I've become. The "work" was not work but an experience in which Christ was encountered. The volunteers and Salesians I came across exemplified Christ in their selfless actions. Those we served reflected Christ, humbling us with their happiness. Serving has taught me the fullness and joy of acting with the love of God.
One particular work site called Aid for Women made me feel a strong presence of Christ. The pro-life organization opposes a well-known clinic in the area. That day, we stood in the streets holding signs supporting life. And with our rosaries we stood united in prayer. Despite the noisy streets of the city, I had never felt so at peace. This was because we were spreading the gospel to choose Christ.
Gospel Roads propelled me to a better understanding of my faith. It has shown me the beauty that results when we choose Christ in our lives. It has humbled me and enlightened me in ways I could not have imagined. I am so thankful to St. Benedict's parish for welcoming us into their community. I am also thankful for those who helped make our trip possible. The hearts of those I encountered, of whom I served and served with will remain my inspirations and in my prayers as I continue my walk on the gospel road.
[This reflection is written by Stephanie Kaye Miflores who recently went on a mission trip with Gospel Roads in Toronto, Canada.]