This month’s reflection has been contributed by Cecilia Dueñas, a 2007-2008 Peacebuilders alumna from Our Lady of Tepeyac Parish in Chicago.

When I applied to Peacebuilders, I did not know what I was getting my self into. Many of us referred to it as "Jesus Camp", but we found out while we were there that this was something that would really test us. As I sat with my Theological Reflection group that summer, I knew that my mission was to do something about gangs. I grew up in Pilsen and I saw gang activity all the time.

Before I realized anything, my friend Cynthia and I were having our own retreat for thirteen and fourteen year-olds. With the help of my partner contact, Sister Rayo, we reached our goals. It wasn't easy. Cynthia and I had to worry about the activities we were going to do, the food, and the entertainment. Sister Rayo would provide us with the guest speakers. Before we knew it, “Builders of Peace in the World” was on. It did not have a great name because for a while we forgot about the need for a title. It was difficult because we were running back and forth or we were either behind or ahead in schedule. It was a challenge getting to know the young adults and to develop close relationships with them.

Besides all the small tribulations, the worst thing that happened was that a guest speaker did not show up on the last day. Then the team and I gave the last speech, which was about gang violence. I think that it was better that way, because they already knew us and the stories that we had to tell. They could relate to them better than a stranger coming and telling them not to join gangs because they will go to jail.

Our main topic was violence, broken down into certain categories: domestic violence, teen dating, gang violence, and we also had an open section were we got to know them better. Overall, it was a great experience for me and it turned out well for me and the young adults. Now, when I go to Little Village and see the people who were on the retreat with us, I notice the necklace that was given to them as a symbol of their experience, and they still tell me that they have great memories. That thought always brings a smile to my face and I am happy that I was able to help them.

My advice for anyone who has no idea what to do for a peace project is to do something simple, such as having bake sales and sending the profits to an orphanage that needs money, or having a toy drive and donating them. For me the project doesn’t have to come with fancy activities or a great amount of money. Your peace project has to come from your heart.