Do you like to get your hands dirty? Does the smile of a young child touch your heart? Do you share Franciscan values like Solidarity with the Poor, Cross-Cultural Bridge-Building, Justice, Peace and the Integrity of Creation, Simplicity of Lifestyle, Community, Humility, Mission, Ecumenism, and Contemplation? Do you like making new friends and having fun?
If the answers to these questions are yes, then we may just have the service trip for you. St. Francis Builds is a opportunity to explore, live out and reflect upon Franciscan values in the context of a Habitat for Humanity Global Village trip to Latin America.
COCHABAMBA, Bolivia (St. Anthony Messenger) – The Bolivians were a bit baffled, trying to imagine what the gringos were doing in Cochabamba. “We thought, 'Who is going to pay their own expense, for their tickets for the trip, pay for their food, only to come here to help a Bolivian family?'” said Elías Agreda Dia.
It is hard to narrow down my feelings about the trip. There were so many events that left me without words -- the grace and gentleness of the people, the joy of the children, the warmth and outreach of our group. Being part of all that was a tremendous gift. The image that keeps coming back to me, however, is that of Angelita with her children, as she saw the house rise. There was wonder in her face as she saw what would be her new home becoming a reality. She was Everywoman, yearning for a place of her own where she could raise her children. Why should others make such a trip as ours? I never enjoyed so much hard work so much. There was a feeling of fulfillment that can only come from seeing something wonderful taking place. There are few needs more basic than that of having a home for ones family, and being a part of making that happen was one of the happiest experiences of my life. Jean Cook
