Encountering Christ on the Streets
The Junior Street Retreat at St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School is a transformative experience designed to help 11th-grade students encounter Christ in a profound and personal way. This faith-driven retreat takes students beyond the walls of a traditional retreat setting and into the streets of downtown Austin, where they meet and engage with individuals experiencing homelessness. The retreat begins in Eucharistic Adoration, grounding students in prayer and inviting Jesus to work through them. With hearts prepared, students travel in small groups, guided by senior leaders and adult chaperones, to meet and listen to those living on the streets. Rather than offering food or money, the students provide something even more valuable—their time, presence, and genuine attention. Through these encounters, they hear personal stories of struggle, resilience, and faith, gaining a new perspective on human dignity. In the evening, students visit Community First! Village, a master-planned community for formerly homeless individuals. Over a shared meal, they listen to the stories of residents who have overcome homelessness and discovered hope. The retreat concludes with reflection, where students share how their perspectives on poverty, faith, and service have
deepened. Many leave with a renewed understanding that, even with nothing material to offer, they can always share the love of Christ. Through this retreat, students witness firsthand the power of faith amidst suffering and learn that simple human connection is a gift in itself. Written by Gian Gamboa, Director of Formation & Ministrys Junior Caleb Kyburz shares about his group’s encounters in downtown Austin.
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