Young Adult Mission Trip
FAQ
Do I have to be Catholic?
No. However, we ask that everyone be open to the teachings, traditions and practices of the Catholic Church. Our team will be attending Mass on a regular basis during the week we are there. On each of the previous 6 trips, we have had non-Catholic team members, several of whom have made more than one trip!
How much does it cost?
The cost of the trip is approximately $350, plus the cost of airfare. The $350 includes the cost of food, lodging and transportation within Honduras. Anyone is welcome to use Frequent Flier Miles to arrange transportation, but must arrange it on his/her own.
Do I need to know Spanish?
No. While knowledge of Spanish is valuable, it is not required. We work in small teams to accomplish our projects and each small group will have at least one person who speaks Spanish. It's more important to have a servant's heart than the native tongue.
How were the site and project(s) chosen?
As with previous Diocese of Raleigh Young Adult Mission Trips, it starts with an invitation. Fr. Marcos, who has formerly served within the Diocese of Raleigh and was the Spiritual Director of our 2005 – 2007 Mission Teams, invited us to come back to Honduras. In doing so, we are serving the second poorest country in the western hemisphere (after Haiti).
What if I'm not skilled in construction, medicine or education?
No problem! Anyone with a desire to get involved is welcome. Some of the most valuable spiritual moments occur when you step outside of your comfort zone! Everyone has valuable talents and abilities to put to use. Several previous mission team members have even changed careers after participating in our Mission Trips!
Do I have to be really religious to be on the team?
No. The Mission Trip is designed as a retreat with a large service component. The role of the Spiritual Director is to take each individual at whatever place he/she is spiritually and guide him/her to the next level, since no two people are in the same place spiritually. There is something for everyone!
How many people are on the mission team?
Because of space constraints at the mission house in San Juan Pueblo, the team will be limited to 16 members. A $100 non-refundable deposit will be required to secure a space.
Why the theme "Be My Witnesses?
In previous years, we have had the theme of Catholic Social Teaching in various forms. This year's theme builds on that foundation and challenges us to focus on how we are Christ to others. One of the spiritual goals for the mission trip is to become aware of our Christian values as we go out to other cultures and people, and reflect on how we take up the witness of others.
Will we have meetings before we go?
Yes. We will meet monthly starting in September to prepare spiritually and to plan our projects.
Will we do fundraising?
Yes. The money and supplies donated will pay for and support the projects we do in Honduras. This is especially important given that, with our school project, we have undertaken the biggest initiative in the history of our young adult mission trips.
In fact, we need to raise approximately $30,000 in order to build the special needs school! While this may sound like a lot of money, we have a plan called “Three to Get Ready."
Do I need a passport?
Yes, definitely. If you do not have a passport, you may begin the process of obtaining one at your local post office or on-line. A US passport is valid for 10 years.
Are shots or certain medicines required before travel?
A current tetanus immunization is strongly recommended, since we will be working around construction sites. Malaria prophylaxis is also recommended, but consult with your personal physician to get the most up-to-date recommendations and do what's best for you.
I'm interested! Now what?
Contact the trip coordinator,Lori Schweickert, MD for more information.
"God has given each of you some special abilities; be sure to use them to help each other, passing on to others God's many kinds of blessings" 1 Peter 4:10