I was assigned to Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Baltimore as part of my summer ministry. I was unsure of what to expect. Having lived in the Bronx for a year now, Baltimore seemed fairly small in comparison to New York. There were eight of us in community, including Bishop Bruce Lewandowski, Fr. Ako Walker, Fr. Mark Wise, Fr. Charles Hergenroeder, Fr. Alipio Flores, Fr. Adrian Roelly, and Fr. Jim Szobonya.

I was assigned various tasks, such as opening and closing the Church for the liturgy and parish activities, reading and serving at Mass, and serving as sacristan. I helped at the two English Masses during the weekend, usually doing whatever was needed. During the Vigil Masses on Saturday, I served and/or read if the usual person was absent. I also worked in the office for three days during the week, assisting with a variety of administrative tasks. I helped count the collections alongside three parishioners on Mondays – a tedious job, yet I felt incredibly fulfilled. I also helped with various events scheduled throughout the week. Occasionally, I helped with the food pantry that is open on Tuesdays and Fridays at St. Patrick’s, a parish connected to Sacred Heart of Jesus. Aside from the parish work and activities, I had a few household chores, such as cleaning the second- and third-floor hallways and bathrooms, tidying up the guest rooms, cleaning the kitchen and dining room, and helping Fr. Mark restock snacks and drinks in the common room.

The Jubilee Mass for the Baltimore Province was one of the highlights of my summer. This year, 12 jubilarians whose service to the mission total 580 years, were honored. I helped set up and served at the Jubilee Mass, and enjoyed meeting Redemptorists from all over the Baltimore Province. I only had a little free time, but whenever I had the chance, I used it to explore all that Baltimore has to offer. Fr. Charles, associate pastor, often accompanied me to the city. This kind, humble and gentle priest took me to the National Aquarium in downtown Baltimore and the harbor to see the ships and submarines used during wartime.

Overall, I enjoyed my summer ministry in Baltimore. Most importantly, I enjoyed the company of the kind and welcoming parishioners. Most of them only spoke Spanish, so it was important that I learned their language. It was truly a rewarding experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve at Sacred Heart.