A group of 14 Newman University students spent their spring break serving others during a mission trip to Memphis, Tennessee.
The trip, which included both service and community-building experiences, provided students with an opportunity to deepen their faith while working at Alpha Omega Veterans Services’ Urban Farm, a program that helps rehabilitate homeless veterans.
Adventure-filled days
The journey began Saturday, March 15, with a drive from Wichita to Memphis, making a stop at Christ the King Catholic Church in Fort Smith, Arkansas, for Mass and lunch. Students settled into their accommodations in the Cooper-Young District and immersed themselves in the local culture and neighborhood.
On March 16, the group attended Mass at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception before a music bus tour of the city and sightseeing on Beale Street. The service portion of the trip took place on March 17 and 18, as the group worked at Alpha Omega’s farm, helping prepare the land for agricultural use.
On March 19, the students returned to Wichita and were greeted by an unexpected snowfall upon arrival.
In the evenings during the trip, the group explored Memphis, including a visit to a local taco truck and participation in a trivia night at Huey’s Burger, where Newman Chaplain Father Ed Herzog’s team secured second place.
Herzog emphasized the significance of mission trips in students’ personal and spiritual growth.
“At its essence, a mission trip is more than just travel; it’s an opportunity to live out our faith in service, deepen our understanding of God’s call to love our neighbor and transform both ourselves and the communities we serve,” he said. “These experiences equip students with the compassion, knowledge and leadership skills necessary to make a meaningful impact on the world.”
Unexpected rewards
The mission trip was not only about service but also about strengthening faith and building relationships. Junior theology major Nathan Galicia, who has gone on three mission trips with Newman University, found deep spiritual fulfillment through the experience.
“I know what it’s like to be in a vulnerable state and not have a place to call home, and the majority of the veterans we served are or were homeless and the organization helps house them,” Galicia said. “I lost my home to Hurricane Harvey in 2018, and I found God through people who served my family and helped us rebuild. Whenever I get to do the same thing for others, that’s when I feel closest to God.”
Galicia described his experience working outdoors in service as both challenging and rewarding.
“I mainly helped with broadforking both days,” Galicia said. “It was awesome. We did four fields and it took both days. It was tiring, but definitely worth it.”
Connecting with veterans
Grace Hertel, a sonography major, also expressed her love for the community and people she met during the trip.
“Even those I didn’t know before the trip, I ended up getting really close to,” she said. “Plus, Memphis was so cool, and I got to check off another state on my list.”
During their breaks from service, students had the chance to connect with the organization’s leadership and meet some of the veterans who benefit from the program.
“Veterans are a population that can struggle and be very vulnerable,” said Hertel, whose brother is currently serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. “Knowing that at least these veterans have this resource and that we’re helping them was really meaningful. It made me think about how easily my own brother could be in that position.”
Reflecting on the trip, Hertel encouraged other students to consider joining a future mission experience.
“Even if you’re not involved in Campus Ministry, it’s such a great opportunity,” she said. “You meet new people, make lifelong memories and get to serve others. If you want an unforgettable experience, sign up. You will always remember these moments.”
Spring Cor ad Cor (‘heart speaks to heart’) retreat
From April 11-13, Newman students can enjoy a restful weekend in Reading, Kansas, to develop community and grow spiritually before the Easter season.
The cost is $50 to attend. To inquire about payment, please contact Assistant Director of Campus Ministry and Administrative Assistant for Mission Integration Nika Sykes.
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