Reflection on My Mission Trip to the Dominican Republic – 1993 and Beyond

In the summer of 1993, I had the privilege of joining a mission trip to our sister diocese in the Dominican Republic—an experience that left an indelible mark on my heart and faith. I spent three weeks living with a family in the small town of Pedro Santana, located along the Haitian border. My Dominican mother, father, and brothers and sisters welcomed me into their home with open arms and genuine love to have me there. Though many years have passed, the lessons and spirit of that experience remain vividly alive in me today.

Our group brought with us a water filtration system to help improve access to clean drinking water in the homes where we stayed. It was a small step toward addressing a real need, but what continues to resonate most deeply is how much they gave to us. While we believed we were going to offer help and a solution to a problem, it was undoubtedly the people of Pedro Santana and San Juan de la Maguana who had the greater impact on my life.

Their unwavering generosity, hospitality, and deep faith were humbling. Though many lacked basic material comforts, they lived with a richness of spirit that taught me what it means to give selflessly and to live with purpose. I remember vividly the moment an elderly woman presented Fr. Jerry with a small gift during his silver jubilee Mass—a single bar of soap wrapped in newspaper. She lived in a home without a bed, yet gave from the little she had. It was a profound act of love, and one I will never forget.

A quote that echoed throughout our time there was: “Live simply, so that others may simply live.” That message was more than just words—it became a way of life that I have carried with me ever since. The people of the Dominican Republic, with their deep faith and simplicity, embodied this truth. They showed me that joy is not found in what we possess, but in how we love, how we give, and how we live in communion with others. It taught me humility, resilience, and the power of human connection. It deepened my faith and ignited a lifelong desire to live with greater intention and compassion.

Having had this experience as a young adult, I had quietly prayed that the call to want to go on a mission trip would come into the hearts of my kids. With God’s grace, it did. My oldest, Jacob, went for a week with BMC in his senior year. Unfortunately, COVID prevented my middle two from attending. Then Lizzy shared her interest in participating, and of course, I encouraged her without hesitation. I knew the experience would be life-changing, just as it had been for me. Watching her embrace that journey has been a gift—a continuation of the same mission rooted in love, faith, and the call to serve.