Detroit Mercy’s University Ministry organization, fresh off a service immersion trip to Chicago earlier this month, is already planning its next stop: El Paso, Texas, in late April.
The trips include manual labor, cultural learning, relationship building and daily prayer and reflection, according to the group’s website.
“The main mission for these trips is to allow students to detach themselves from things like school, social media, and any other distractions that may come their way,” Sophomore Ally Don Jean-Francois, an intern with University Ministry, said in an interview. “It’s an opportunity to have students draw themselves closer to God and be able to be at peace.”
Jean-Franciois, a member of the men’s lacrosse team from Las Vegas, Nev., said many students refer to these trips as being a release from reality.
“I can personally say that it has definitely helped me out throughout college so far to keep my peace and sanity,” he said.
Another big theme with students attending these trips is the bond and new connections with other students who attend these retreats.
“Often, it'll be a bit nerve racking talking about the gospel because some may not believe what I believe or are probably not as into it as much as I am,” Jean-Francois said. “Although with the trips I go on with Ministry allows me to be relaxed and talk freely about my faith amongst others.”
