Alumni

Tucson is technically a border town. Our unit went on a border delegation trip with a Presbyterian mission called Frontera de Cristo. We went to Douglas, Arizona’s sister city, Agua Prieta, Sonora. We learned the reasons why people choose, or have to immigrate. It really expanded my knowledge on a complicated issue and I have more empathy for people who, for some of them, immigration isn’t a choice.

Something that I’ve learned a lot about is social justice and how to participate in that. Coming from a context of being a college student and hearing about all of these protests but not really being involved in any of them, it’s been really cool to learn more about that process and get involved and be able to make my voice heard in some of these actions.

Relationship is the foundation of everything. Wherever I go, visiting workers, I value the one-on-on in-person relationships. In building relationship with partners, I see God at work in various cultures, various contexts. Practicing two-way mission, we listen to our partners and receive invitation to join them in the work they are already doing.

I was placed in a nonprofit organization that serves refugees, and I found myself falling in love with the work and the people. I also really like San Antonio and all the opportunities that it has to offer young people like me willing to do service. I am very happy to stay with my placement organization and work with them for this amazing cause.

We’re here to experience the community and be part of it. I’ve learned a lot about how I experience Mennonite religion and culture through that, and learned a lot better about how to talk about it. That’s not something I was expecting.

This year of work, community and church has reminded me over and over again that the place that God consistently shows up in our society is among those who are most vulnerable. Those on the edges, and in the shadows. God offers an invitation to us to join in and amplify that movement. That is the good news.

I think MVS is a good transition place, if you’re not quite sure what you want to do. It’s a place where you can really reflect with a community who’s behind you and wants to support you. Just do it!

Service can be intimidating. It is a challenge because you are going, potentially, far from home and cultures that you’re familiar with. But I think the reason why people should do service is that it will push you out of those boundaries. I’m a more nuanced and rounded person for having pushed outside of those boundaries and finding that my normal is not “the normal” — which can refer to your faith and how you express it or even just worship styles. It’s a great time to learn more about the broader world, and also to learn about yourself.

MVS gave me the opportunity to explore a vocation that I probably otherwise wouldn’t have encountered. I was able to really help people in very tangible ways.

I remember hearing about Service Adventure all throughout high school and at my church. I thought it was a cool idea, but for the longest time, I thought I had to go straight to college after high school or I would be considered a failure. I am so glad that God called me to change my plans and that I decided to follow through with Service Adventure