Posted: January 12, 2017
Over the Christmas break, three current students – Samantha Cabrera, Cesar Cruz Martinez, and Cameron Henderson – and HIU’s Director of Campus Ministries, Bryan Sands (BA ‘01) answered the call to “create justice” at Amor’s 2nd Global Gathering. From December 31st to January 7th they gathered with individuals from around the world to build homes for families in need, conduct community outreaches, attend justice workshops, and engage in global conversations.
The Global Gathering theme for 2017 – “Create Justice: Sacrifice Privilege” – is based on the conviction that our privileges are not meant for us to use for our own good, but instead, are meant to be used for the good of others.
During their week in the Yucatán Peninsula, participants attended morning and evening sessions along with over 150 young adults representing 15 countries. Among the speakers during the week were civil rights activist, Dr. John Perkins, and President of Urban Saints, Matt Summerfield. Following each morning session, attendees were given the option of helping build a home, leading a sport outreach, prayer and healing outreach, medical outreach, or hosting a Vacation Bible School for local children.
Global Gathering participants constructed five homes over the course of the trip. These homes not only provide shelter, but also create a safeguard against human trafficking and kidnapping of homeless individuals.
“I feel as if I've lived in a bubble my whole life, and this was an incredible opportunity for me to break out and how to respond to some of the major issues going on around the world,” says Samantha Cabrera, a HIU senior studying Social Science, of her decision to participate in the Global Gathering.
“The most inspiring moment on the trip was definitely meeting the family for whom we built the house. By the last day of the trip I was feeling tired and weary. But as soon as I saw the the joy they had on their faces, I knew that I'd do it all again in a heartbeat,” Samantha reflects. “That moment watching the family receive the key to their home gives me chills every time I think about it. I am so glad I was able to be a part of that.”
For more information about HIU’s student outreach opportunities, contact Bryan Sands.
