VT Catholic Campus Ministry 2026 Issue 1

“The Louisville ASB was a powerful opportunity to encounter the heart of Jesus in the poor and most vulnerable. By setting aside one week to focus on completely giving of myself and my gifts for the sake of others, I experienced who I have been created to be: a man in service of others. I got the chance to step out of my busy, often monotonous, daily schedule to focus on simply bringing Christ to those in need. For one, it was awesome ASBs ASBs Each year Hokies participate in Alternative Spring Break trips (ASBs), serving both domestically and abroad during spring break. These experiences give students the opportunity to put their faith in action by serving others, living in solidarity with the community they serve, and deepening their faith life. Below are two students’ personal experiences:

to know I was able to meet these people’s physical needs, whether feeding the homeless, helping build community gardens for immigrant families, or teaching English as a Second Language to refugees from Africa. Even more, however, it was amazing to know that I also provided food for their souls and became a ray of hope in their day. This is truly what I loved about ASB–being able to meet those we serve on a personal level as well as being for them an encounter with Jesus Christ. Additionally, encountering their joyful appreciation of our small acts of charity was such a beautiful thing to experience. Doing this with a small group of friends also makes a big difference. Working and living so closely with these people allowed me to create new friendships and deepen existing ones. Yes, this happened in serving and praying together, but also in the little moments like driving to pick up Aldi cream puffs, sharing meals, and making fun of our drivers for missing turns. Finally, ASB was an opportunity to grow in personal

relationship with Jesus. There were plenty of opportunities for personal and group prayer, Adoration, and Mass. Also, as I said earlier, serving those in need also helped me to realize just how awesome his merciful and loving heart is to share and give to others.” - Ben Rubinich, Student Campus Minister