Five Glenmary novices recently returned from a transformative six months of service in mission counties in Georgia and Tennessee. Immersed in the spirit of ministry, they shared their faith through jail outreach, Bible studies, and eucharistic service.

In these rural communities they visited nursing homes, bringing companionship and prayer to the elderly. Their presence in jail ministry offered hope to the incarcerated, while Bible studies deepened their connection with others seeking spiritual growth. Through ecumenical efforts, they helped build bridges across faith traditions, embodying unity in service.

By their own report, the Glenmary novices embraced hands-on mission work, learning humility, compassion, and the power of simply being present. Their journey was not just about serving others—it was about growing in faith, love, and dedication to God’s call. “These months became a time of bringing hearts together in faith, service, and presence. It was a moment of countless graces,” shares Glenmary novice Aloysius Ssennyondo.

This article first appeared in the Spring 2025 issue of the Glenmary Challenge.