Commitments and Goals

Here are the Commitments and Goals that we ask each of us to acknowledge

SUMMER SERVICE COMMITMENTS AND GOALS:

Commitments:

- Emails and phone calls: I will do my best to answer emails and phone calls from the trip coordinators asap or within 24-48 hrs. (We cannot stress this enough. It makes the coordinators’ jobs so much easier. Text or email are the best and quickest methods to communicate. However, if these are not the best methods for you, let the coordinators know this right away.)

- Stock sales: I will work at least one shift at our week-end stock sales after the masses. (This is important not just to divide the work load but so that our churches see us as part of the larger community, sent as delegates.  We also each benefit from these donations. Otherwise the cost of this journey would be much higher. We ask that team members do their share to support this trip). 

- Other fundraiser: If there is another fundraiser, I will participate in the activity and promotion to the extent that I am able. Post the Go Fund Me through social media. Spread the word about the coffee fundraiser. 

- Meetings/Potlucks: I will participate in our Service Team introductory meeting tbd and final meeting before the trip on tbd, and in our Saint John XXIII community presentation after the trip (usually in the Fall or Winter) to the extent that I am able.

-Essential Enrichment: Besides the meetings described above, I understand that there are some  readings, films and gatherings. (This is considered an essential part of the trip experience. It begins our learning process and also prepares us to enter the communities we visit with respect.) I commit to participate in this ESSENTIAL pre-trip experience. If I have to miss an event I will do the reading, or watch the film, and discuss with a team member.  

- Send-off blessing: I will show up for the St. John XXIII send- off blessing, on Sunday, July 20th at 10:30 a.m. mass at St. Nicholas if I am able.

- Writing postcards: I will participate in writing postcards to Donors while on the trip.

-Reflection moderator and journal writing: I will participate in our program of prayer and reflection to the extent that I am able.   

- Self-care and Flexibility: I will be flexible, understanding that this trip may not be perfect, or meet all of my personal expectations. I understand that I may address any concerns directly with the trip coordinators. (We will work together to resolve any conflicts in a spirit of cooperation.) I will remember to take care of my health. If I need to take a day off or I need to excuse myself from an activity in order to remain healthy and well-rested I will do so.    

Goals:

Mission and immersion trips are designed to provide real-life, justice–oriented experiences rooted in simplicity, community, prayer, and service. It is important for each member of the team to understand and support this mission in order for the program to be successful for all.

Simplicity: I understand that this experience will require me to step out of my comfort zone. I agree to live this week in simplicity, without some of the conveniences to which I am accustomed. I understand that food choices are made to serve a large group and may not always be my preferred choice. I agree to limit my use of electronic devices so that I may be fully present. 

Community: I understand that traveling with a group will require me to be patient and kind toward all members of the group. I also understand that I will be visiting an area where the culture and the customs may differ from my own.  I will treat all people on the trip and in the surrounding community with respect.

Prayer: I understand that this experience will involve prayer and reflection. I am open to this experience of prayer and reflection and will actively participate to the degree to which I am able. 

Service: I realize the importance of following a schedule. I understand that being present to the people I am working and traveling with is an important form of service. I will work hard to complete each task given to me with pride and humility.