While some students went home or relaxed on the beaches in places south of Indiana over fall break, one group of seven Saint Mary's College women went on a pilgrimage to Monterrey, Mexico.
Supervised by College Campus Minister Sr. Veronique Wiedower, the group met consistently over the fall semester in preparation for their journey. The goal of the pilgrimage was "to witness another culture … and let their reality dialogue with our own," Wiedower said.
Since the group stayed with the Sisters of the Holy Cross during their stay, they were able to interact with people from several "chapels" or mission churches. Senior Mallory Price said she met people from all walks of life there.
"We met about 130 children … who attend the Kids' Club after-school program," stated Price. "Teenagers … who have their own club … [and] about 15 women who have a women's club."
The women also visited different neighborhoods or "colonias" to partake in mass and other ministries. Price said a memorable highlight was when the group also ministered to people and visited the sick.
"I learned that when you set out to change things or help the world, it is never just the people you are serving that are changed, but you, yourself are forever changed."
The group encountered cultural barriers such as customs and languages, but these differences did not hinder the women from learning from those around them.
"I had the opportunity to go with an elderly woman," said Price. "Marcia inspired me, even though I didn't know everything she said."
Not only were current Saint Mary's women involved in making a difference, but an alumna as well.
"It was like a mini-reunion," Wiedower said as she discussed the graduate student who is volunteering a year of service in Monterrey.
