Urban Immersion

The Jesuit Vision

"The mission of the Society of Jesus is the service of faith, of which the promotion of justice is an absolute requirement, for reconciliation with God demands the reconciliation of people with one another."

-32nd General Congregation of the Society of Jesus

What is poverty? Are people poor because they are lazy? How can I help homeless people? Is there a difference between charity and justice? What are the problems and possibilities of urban life today? How do I respond as a person of faith? These are some of the questions that are explored in B.C.'s Urban Immersion program in which students engage in direct service with impoverished people, study some of the many issues confronting city-dwellers, and form a community of prayer and hope with other Urban Immersion students.

The Week-Long Immersion

students serving food at counter BOSTON, MA

During Winter break, 25 students stay at a hostel in the city. This year's program will run from January 6-12, 2008. A Boston College campus minister, and another faculty/staff person accompany the group throughout the week.

Each day, we work on a variety of projects which may include service in a foodbank, visitation with guests in one of Boston's shelters, or outreach to local elderly. During evening seminars, we study a variety of urban issues such as racism, homelessness, and theological perspectives on urban life. Various speakers are brought in to share their ministries with the students. To ground our community in the love and justice of God, we end each day in a communal multi-faith prayer service.

Selection for the program is by lottery.

The cost to each participant is $100.
(The group may choose to raise funds to help pay for those who cannot afford the fee.)

How Do I Get Involved?

Participation in the week-long Urban Immersions is by lottery. To learn more about the program and to enroll in the lottery contact:
Fr. Don MacMillan, SJ,
Campus Minister
phone: (617) 552-2422
e-mail: macmilld@bc.edu

Questions? Want to get involved?

Contact Fr. Don MacMillan, SJ,
Campus Minister
phone: (617) 552-2422
e-mail: macmilld@bc.edu