Youth Group Makes Weeklong Mission Trip To . . .

The combined youth group of St. Bernard Parish in Rockport and St. Martin I Parish in Chrisney hosted its third annual mission trip to benefit Spencer County.  The Mission Trip is called Catholic Mission Adventure.  Twenty-three teenagers, six college students and numerous adult volunteers enjoyed a week of service and spiritual renewal. 

The Catholic Mission Adventure first began when the youth group traveled to Toledo, Ohio, to perform community service. Several of its members suggested that instead of traveling to another state, the group had opportunities at home in Spencer County to revitalize the community and build relationships with businesses and residents. 

Members of the youth group not only initiated the idea for a “stay-at-home” mission trip, they continue to take an active role in much of the planning for this week of service.

During the week, the volunteers split into teams. One worked Habitat for Humanity to shingle a roof, cut down a tree and replace carpeting in a home. Another helped the Crisis Connection and prosecutor’s office create a kid-friendly interview room and move office materials.

Another team visited Miller’s Merry Manor Nursing Home daily for bingo, an ice cream social and a wheelchair car wash. This team also washed and painted a deck for an elderly lady, and completed other tasks throughout the community.  A fourth team volunteered to help a man struggling with his greenhouse, and they spent time working at St. Bernard Catholic School.

The Message thanks youth group member Kyle Varbel for providing information and photos.