Mission Statement
Campus Ministry of Boston College has a longstanding and deep commitment to integrate faith and justice – a vision of spiritual life articulated in the gospel message and in the church’s call for a “preferential option for the poor.” We in Campus Ministry have a tradition of offering students the opportunity to spend time in other countries to learn about the realities, hopes and struggles of those living in situations of economic, political or social marginalization. We believe that everyone has a real responsibility to learn about the suffering of our sisters and brothers throughout the world, to understand the structures and practices that create suffering, and to seek constructive ways to change what oppresses them.
Additionally, we believe and recognize the inherent value in building relationships of respect and mutuality in which learning can take place. The goal of the Arrupe international immersion programs is for student participants to deepen their relationships with God through:
- Sharing in the lives of those living in poverty through short-term service projects and living experiences;
- Reflecting critically on issues of faith and justice;
- Being exposed to the wonderful diversity of God’s creations through an encounter with those living in a culture different from their own;
- Offering their skills, resources and gifts for the purpose of creating a more just world.
Vision
The Arrupe International Program, sponsored by Boston College’s Campus Ministry, is comprised of a number of faith-based international service and immersion trips which are conducted during the winter break and the summer vacation period. This program provides Boston College undergraduates – and the faculty, staff and graduate students who accompany them – an opportunity to encounter and learn from the lives of people who struggle daily for basic human rights, for justice and peace, and oftentimes for their very survival in Mexico, the Caribbean, and in Central and South America. Grounded in the Ignatian ideal of a “faith that does justice,” the Arrupe program challenges participants to critically evaluate and reflect upon the complex reality which they encounter. They are encouraged to examine and come to understand the many factors which affect the lives of individuals and communities – economic, political, social, and religious. Throughout this experience, the Arrupe program calls participants to explore a deeper relationship with God, to discover their own gifts and passions, to develop a sense of responsibility for those who suffer in the world, and to offer their talents and abilities to a world in need.
Program Overview
Winter break trips run approximately seven, eight, or nine days, and summer trips run about two weeks. The application process for participants (non-student leaders) begins several months prior to each trip’s departure date, allowing each team of 13 to 16 to meet regularly, typically once a week for two hours, as well as for retreats and other activities. Besides meeting to learn about the particular country they will visit, participants build community and participate in various fundraising and educational events and activities for the campus community. Since Boston College’s Campus Ministry sponsors these faith-based international immersion experiences, prayer, journaling, and sharing with each other – all influenced by Boston College’s Jesuit Catholic tradition – are vital components of each program. During the preparation process and during most days of the trip, participants meet to share their thoughts and impressions, their struggles and joys. Then, upon returning to campus, they continue to meet to process the experience and discover ways in which they can live in solidarity with the people they met and with others who suffer throughout the world.