What are Mission Trips?

St. John XXIII Parish sponsors Mission Trips to areas in need including Native American Reservations, Appalachia and along the border with Mexico.  Our delegations work in solidarity with the local community, engaging in whatever work is needed, and connecting with and learning from the communities that we serve. 

The Results
Understanding and empathy grow as our delegations stand on another’s sacred land and with their community. News stories now come with faces and lives. Through these pilgrimages, our participants live out their faith as members of a church of encounter and return transformed. Their witness is direct, credible and effective as they share their experiences with our faith community.

Specifics
  • Sign ups generally begin in January.
  • Trips last about a week and usually take place at the end of July/beginning of August. 
  • Groups generally travel together in rented minivans. In some cases a flight may be part of the trip.  
  • Trips are multi-generational. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible chaperone. Some organizations that we work with have minimum age requirements. 
  • Many trips include light construction work. However, all ability levels are usually welcome. Organizations are good at finding skill-appropriate and meaningful work for everyone.
  • Pre-trip activities take place in the spring and early summer to prepare the group for the journey. These can include movies, readings, discussion, field trips or guest speakers. Participation in these activities is considered part of the trip experience.

Learn More About Our Trips

2025 Service Trip: Pine Ridge Reservation Pilgrimage, July 26-August 4
Theme: The Holy Land is everywhere.
"To walk the Red Road is to look for beauty in all things."
Additional Information on Past Appalacia Trips
Additional Information on Past Border Trips
Additional Information on Past Reservation Trips
  • 2022: Rosebud Reservation - Mission, South Dakota
  • 2019: "Honor the Treaties: Indian Lands in Indian Hands" - Spirit Lake Reservation, North Dakota
  • 2016: Rosebud Reservation - Mission, South Dakota
  • 2014: Spirit Lake Reservation, North Dakota
Additional Information on Past Justice and Equality Trips

Need More Information?

Please contact one of our Mission Trips coordinators.