A Few Words From Jenny

Jenny Campbell, 2004

I whole-heartedly recommend the Peace Builders Initiative. This wonderful program has changed how I view the world. Prior to Peacebuilders, I was unaware of many problems troubling the Catholic Church. Thanks to the support and encouragement of the mentors, Bart, Angie, and the various guest speakers on my retreat, I have developed a passion to address justice and peace issues.

My summer retreat at the Catholic Theological Union marked the beginning of journey toward peace building. All through the week-long retreat, the welcoming, loving atmosphere set the mood for the retreat. Several guest speakers addressed us, giving us insight on particular aspects of our faith. I learned a lot about serving others and issues concerning social justice. Another part of the retreat was volunteering at service sites. My group and I volunteered at St. Francis Catholic Worker where I witnessed communal living. At this service site, I transported plants, hand-washed clothes, walked cans and newspapers to a recycling site, produced homemade compost, sorted through dumpsters for useful items, and made a solar oven. I learned about a way of life that I never knew existed before.

The most beneficial aspect of Peacebuilders is that the people who started me on my journey as a Peacebuilder are and will continue to be supportive. I know that while I am out in the world seeking to maintain peace and justice, my wonderful mentors, Bart, Angie, and my fellow Peacebuilders will keep on giving me support and encouragement. What I learned and experienced through Peacebuilders has helped me to build peace in my community. This knowledge and understanding will remain with me forever. I hope that more teens will be able to have the amazing opportunity to be a part of the Peacebuilders Initiative.