The Diocese of Camden’s Summer in the City program will return this August, giving South Jersey’s high school youth the opportunity to spend seven days in service, faith and fellowship.
“It’s a great week for the young Church as they encounter those in need while building relationships with and learning from their peers,” says Sister Dianna Higgins, FMIJ, one of the co-coordinators for the experience.
From Aug. 10-16, youth will reside at the Blessed Carlo Acutis Center in Cherry Hill. From there, they will be sent out each day to serve at local parishes, food banks and soup kitchens, using their talents and abilities in service of the Gospel. They will return to the center in the evening for reflections on their work, and readings from Scripture and the saints.
“[This] will get high school students out of their comfort zone and introduce them to the fact that our faith calls us to serve and to care about our neighbor,” said Lauren Adderly, fellow Summer in the City co-coordinator.
Dr. Michael Sims, director of diocesan Office of Life & Justice Ministries, is confident that as participants immerse themselves in social justice, community building and faith throughout the week, they will “develop a heightened awareness of their neighbors’ challenges, fostering empathy, humility and a desire to make lasting change.”
The initiative also builds bridges across cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, he noted, as youth “build a sense of solidarity with those they serve [as they] directly engage with local issues.”
Sister Dianna knows Summer in the City can change hearts. “When young people see those in need and help them, it can be life-changing,” she said.
Summer in the City will be held from August 10-16 at the Blessed Carlo Acutis Center, 300 Cuthbert Blvd., Cherry Hill. The week is open to incoming high school freshmen to rising seniors. Registration is $170 and covers meals, lodging and program materials. Space is limited, and registration is on a first come, first served basis.
For more information, visit tinyurl.com/48r49mbw or contact Dr. Michael Sims at 856-583-2910 or Michael.Sims@camdendiocese.org.
at the bottom and then tap “Add to Home Screen”
