Present Day Saints

Hello everyone!

This is Lauren Durham from the University of Dayton and Samman Tyata from St. Mary's University. Our morning began with love, laughter, and a birthday celebration for Father Greg Boyle with the homies at Homeboy Industries. We had the pleasure of taking part in a surprise party for a man who believes in jobs rather than jails. It was so special to see the appreciation that the homies have for Father Boyle and each other. 

We spent the rest of our time at Homeboy Industries hearing honest, open stories from many of the homies. Our tour guide, Francisco, gave us a lively and wonderful glimpse at the massive operation. We were introduced to Lisa, a homie who shared her personal story and touched all of us. Our time at Homeboy Industries ended with a delicious lunch at Homegirl Cafe. The courageous people we met taught us numerous lessons about perseverance, hope, and the importance of family. Even though we weren't ready to leave, as a friend of ours taught us, "It's better to smile than to cry."

Our day continued with a visit to the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. After some time to reflect on the beauty in front of us, we discussed the lives of famous saints. The tapestries in the cathedral depict twelve children standing amongst some of the most holy people in the Catholic faith. As young adults, we have the power to make positive changes. All twelve of us reflected on the possibility that anyone could become a saint, and in today's world, "We need saints who are sociable and open; who are good friends and joyous companions. We need saints who are in the world who can taste the pure and good of the world, but without being worldly. These saints have to be us!" 

Between the homies we befriended and the cathedral we admired, God was present. He has been in the people and places we have come in contact with in Los Angeles. We are both so grateful to be on this immersion trip, and we look forward to what is to come!