Twelve NDA sophomores, chaperoned by Father Patrick, Father Jordan and science teacher Tonya Gerondale, ventured to Chicago for a life-changing mission trip on January 3.
Over the course of three days, the group immersed themselves in service, prayer and community life.
The Mission of Our Lady of the Angels supports a neighborhood with a high immigrant population and significant socioeconomic challenges, including a local high school graduation rate of 30%.
The mission trip began with Mass celebrated by Bishop Bob Lombardo, founder of the Franciscans of the Eucharist of Chicago, the religious order which runs the mission.
Shortly after, students took to the streets of the Humboldt Park neighborhood, enduring 12- degree weather to distribute clothes to those in need.
The Mission’s monthly clothing drives and weekly food pantry are lifelines for families in the area.
“The community has an increased population of Ecuadorian immigrants, so our students used the Spanish they learned from school to communicate with our clients,” said Father Jordan.
“It felt amazing to use what I’ve learned in school to help people in such a real and meaningful way,” said sophomore Max Janick.
The clothing drive was particularly impactful due to the challenges faced by the local community.
A recent fire had displaced many families, and they lost everything. Janick particularly remembers one individual who arrived wearing a melted coat, desperately seeking for a replacement.
“It was a testament to the lengths people will go to for basic needs and seeing it myself was humbling and unforgettable,” said Janick.
In addition to the clothing drive, the students worked in the Mission’s food pantry, assisted the nuns with clerical tasks and learned about the challenges of the neighborhood.
“The Mission of Our Lady of Angels also runs after-school programs to keep youth from joining gangs, which start recruiting children as young as seven,” said Fr. Jordan.
Despite the cold and hard work, students found joy and inspiration in their service.
“I learned that it’s good to share a common goal with people—to serve our community in Jesus’ example and help others, no matter what circumstances they’re facing,” said Alex Martinez.
The trip also provided an opportunity for personal growth and connection.
“I became friends with people I might not have gotten to know otherwise. I realized how important it is to have people by your side who share your mission and values,” said Janick.
“The work we did was hard, but it reminded me of what it means to live out our faith,” said Martinez.
For the NDA students, the mission trip was an opportunity to serve, deepen faith, communicate with others, and use the power of compassion to make a difference.
