Gannon ABST Washington, DC

The Group arrived back home to Erie, Pennsylvania on Sunday afternoon. This experience was life changing and we want to thank you for all the support and prayers you have given us in making our trip a reality. Also, our apologies for not updating the blog throughout the week, our group had limited Wi-Fi.   –Jen “On our last at the Father McKenna Shelter I didn't want to leave. It hurt to say goodbye to the men I got so close with in such a short amount of time but that is what makes it the best experience I've ever had in my life. I changed so much as a person in so many good ways that any and everyone should experience or go on an ABST at Gannon if they ever have the chance! It's surely worth it! :)” – Leanna 

Today, we continued our mission in deepening our understanding of ourselves, each other, and the problems that poverty and inequality bring. Our day began as usual; sleepy-eyed and ready to help the Father McKenna center in any way possible. Our duties included cooking the meal and serving it, cleaning the center, organizing the pantries, and generally trying to make ourselves useful and helpful. While very important, these tasks were not the catalyst in the change that we experienced today; through talking to the many guests at the McKenna center, to those who live on the street, and to those who were willing to share their life with us, we have begun to break down the divide between “us and them.” And we have realized that we are not so different after all. While the magnitude of our problems might be different, it is what we share that makes us one family of brothers and sisters. From the infections laughter, to the stories of our homes, to our losses of our loved ones, or to the si...

We begin our journey with high expectations, feelings, and the hope that we make a life long impact. Day One: We began early as we prepared for the day ahead. All eager to help the day moved quickly ranging from services being provided at breakfast, lunch, intake, shower & laundry duty, social hour, and even in the food pantry! As the day continued there were countless moments that impacted us. It is breathtaking what the work of a few can mean in the eyes of many. As we continue to adapt to the environment we are in, we are able to reflect on how we can grow emotionally and spiritually in the days ahead. Proverbs 3:27 says "Do not pass by a man in need, for you may be the hand of God to him." With clear eyes and full hearts we plan to make a difference in the world amongst us; but what we may learn is that we may just be impacted more... Much Love, Leanna & Tiffany

Our day started by us gathering and leaving the Gannon Campus around 10AM this morning.  Most of our day was spent traveling to D.C. with a stop in Breezewood for Lunch. During our ride here our group spend time signing,laughing, and having an overall good time. As we sat and watched as the group was having a good time, it made us happy to see that the group members were forming new friendships amongst each other. We arrived at the Father McKenna, our home for the week early this evening and was provided an overview of the center by one of the staff members, Ned Hogan. Our group is looking forward to beginning our service in the morning. ~Ilya, Jen and the rest of The D.C. Squad