December 8th was a day in which 55 young adults from different parishes of the Diocese of San Bernardino stood in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in need in the Low Desert Vicariate through a local mission organized by the Pastoral Juvenil Young Adult Office in the diocese. That day marked our lives, because through our work, all of the young adults participating in the mission found happiness and satisfaction by filling the lives of others with joy. We had done something to improve our community and the world, why not say it!
“The mission to Mecca was an unforgettable experience,” said Cristian Hernandez. “We didn’t mind knowing that we would visit an unfamiliar place, what time we would eat, how long we would be standing, or the fatigue this mission would bring. Everything made sense when we saw the face of Jesus reflected in the people who we were able to help that day.”
This mission impacted our lives in a way we did not expect.
“I always said that for me the most important thing was to find a job that pays you well doing whatever,” said Jocy Gutierrez. “After this mission, my thinking has changed. These families do not have clean water to drink, no drainage, and especially, do not have political representation. Seeing this reality just two hours from where I live, I realized that working for money is just work in vain. I discovered that my calling is to help others, especially this community; to advocate for them in Congress, in the legislature and locally.”
It is also important to acknowledge the support of the various independent donors that helped us make this mission a reality. Donors such as St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Irvine, with their generous donation of 1,000 pairs of new shoes, the San José Community & Bea Main Learning Center, Pueblo Unido CDC, and Action in Christ TODAY Catholic Outreach Young Adult Group. Without their generous support and cooperation, the joy that was brought to these families would not have been possible.
“I recognized Jesus through the smiles of the children,” said Ivan Rosales. “I felt the love of God was present in their hearts by giving thanks when they received a piece of clothing. Jesus was present through the efforts of every member who took part in this mission.”
Many times we get stuck in unavailing things such as dressing in brand names, having the best cellphone or the latest electronic item; however, we must pause for a moment and recognize that at the end of the day what really matters are not the clothes you are wearing or material things, but the courage to put your faith into action – to have God in your eyes, in your hands, and proclaim that God lives in your heart.
For more information and pictures, please check out our blog: www.pastoraljuvenilya.wordpress.com or visit our Facebook page: Pastoral Juvenil YA Diocese of San Bernardino
Maria José Garcia is the Coordinator of Pastoral Outreach to Hispanic Young Adults for the Diocese of San Bernardino.