Catholic Campus Ministry at Virginia Tech 2025 : Issue 1

“They weren’t just visitors; they were role models,” said Hughes. “Their presence reminded us that following Christ isn’t just about words — it’s about how we live, how we serve, and how we connect with others. They showed our students that faith isn’t boring; rather, it is the foundation of a meaningful, joy-filled life.” Meanwhile, at Elder Spirit, Hokies connected with residents by sharing life stories and laughter. “I was told countlessly that our group made their days just by being present,” said O’Kane. Evenings during the trip were filled with reflection, adoration, confession, and daily Mass, making the trip feel not only like a service project but also a spiritual retreat. “These Hokies embodied what it means to live a life of faith in action.” – Hughes

Andrew O’Kane Class of 2028

“The presence of the Holy Spirit on our ASB brought a new light to the task at hand. I’m sure it was due to God’s help that we touched so many hearts.” – O’Kane

The students stayed at the Jubilee House Retreat Center — fittingly named for the Jubilee year in which it was completed. This sacred space has long been cared for by Catholic Hokie alumni Bob and Karen Vaughan, who retired this year after more than a decade of dedicated service. Bob managed bookings and maintenance, while Karen oversaw cooking, cleaning, and landscaping. Together, they live the mission they preach: “We believe Jesus is present in every human, and we receive the real presence of Christ at each Mass,” they shared. “We are always working for him.” Their legacy of hospitality and quiet faith continues to bear fruit. Since the trip, students have visited Abingdon to cultivate the relationships they built with St. Anne’s and the Jubilee House community — proof that this was not just one week of service but the beginning of something enduring.

Bob and Karen Vaughan Cornerstone Hokies

“I think service is a very important aspect of our faith that is often overlooked,” O’Kane reflected. “Jesus called us to go and serve the hungry, thirsty, homeless, naked, sick, imprisoned, and deceased... and that’s a challenging thing to do. But this trip helped me grow in so many virtues. I am extremely excited to see what fruits will come from my next three ASB trips.”