Pastor at El Faro, The Border Church / La Iglesia Fronteriza, Tijuana, MX
Through immersion trips to the border, young people experience contact with vulnerable people. The result, according to their subsequent comments, is “touching, eye-opening, unexpected, impactful, humbling, grateful, hopeful, connected, clarified, a great experience.” This is an experience that strengthens their soul and empowers them to carry the story to others. Eventually, a sense of care for other people in vulnerable conditions develops within them.
“Touching, eye-opening, unexpected, impactful, humbling, grateful, hopeful, connected, clarified, a great experience.”
Sowing empathy in young hearts and participating in their development as human beings is essential. Such an experience leaves a feeling of confidence and stability so young people can go on to care for others. My time spent around SSP’s volunteer groups inspires a youthful impulse to continue the work carried out around fragile migrants, to foster and develop peace, hope, and love.
“A heart poured out, ready and open to be filled in new ways.”
Through the staff and volunteers’ efforts to bring young people to communities in need, a sense of unity is created by providing social impact and a ripple effect. When the summer is over and these young people go home, they leave us with a heart poured out, ready and open to be filled in new ways.
Editor’s Note: Pastor Guillermo works year-round at the US-Mexico border and is SSP’s main contact for our San Diego Adventure Wednesday activities. We are grateful for local contacts like him, who make our efforts to guide youth volunteers in advocating alongside communities not only possible, but impactful.