Our Final Thoughts

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

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Tearing Down Walls!

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...

Our first day

What a day! Our trip left right on schedule this morning at 10 am and it is now close to midnight as we finally settle in for bed. Our group had the opportunity to explore Georgetown and visit a local Walmart to grocery shop today. We are already becoming more aware of the poverty that exists even in affluent areas like Georgetown. Ned, the Father McKenna Center Volunteer Coordinator met us and showed us the place. He explained their food pantry, clothing donation, hypothermia, and day shelter programs. The group is exhausted, but excited to start our journey tomorrow as we fully immerse ourselves in this eye-opening experience! And it all begins with sleeping on pews tonight.... The DC crew will be ready to rock n'roll tomorrow! Good night. Sweet dreams. -Maggie McKernan

Gannon ABST Washington, DC

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