From the remote village of Yalpemach, Quatemala, to The Working Boys Center in Quito, Ecuador, to the Archdiocese of Castries on the island of St. Lucia to La Sagrada Familia Parish in Sabana Yegua, Dominican Republic these Milwaukee Archdiocese youth will carry out Jesus' message of serving others.

They will dig holes for fence posts while fighting off mosquitoes in Guatemala. In Quito they will help with tutoring and recreational activities for the families involved in the Center. Sixteen of the youth will provide Bible study to children that are part of the parishes of Fond St.Jacques and Souffre, St. Lucia. In the DR, a unique experience of a "mutual exchange" music camp with the Dominican youth will culminate in a concert for the entire community.

Their commitment to this experience does not first begin when they board the plane. Since January they have been part of several training meetings including an overnight Retreat. They have initiated fundraising efforts such as speaking to their parishes, selling cotton candy to fellow students, writing letters of requests and speaking to area organizations such as Rotary, Lion's and other clubs. Donation requests include money to support their expenses as well as needed supplies for the mission sites.

Accompanying them to the mission sites are several adult leaders. They include Jenny Blahnik, Chris Daniels, Mike Heimbach, Fr. Jerry Herda, Connie Kriewaldt, Ricardo Martin and Tom Tomachek. These dedicated adults help to make the trip a safe and meaningful experience.

Please keep them in your prayers over the summer months. GYM is part of the Office of World Missions. Should you want more information regarding Global Youth Mission please contact the coordinator, Cathy Pinter at 414-962-8155.