Hey fam,

Hope you’re all doing great and soaking in the spring sunshine—it’s a good time to be alive! With so much happening at St. Matthew’s, I wanted to share an important update about summer mission trips. 

I know the annual Mississippi trip is a beloved tradition around here. Unfortunately, we won’t be able to make that one happen this year. BUT—I didn’t want the summer to slip by without offering something meaningful, fun, and community-building for you guys.

So here's what I've been cooking... 

Catholic Heart Work Camp (CHWC)

These camps are an epic blend of service projects, team bonding, faith growth, and fun adventures. Shoutout to the legend Mark Polny for the recommendation!

Here are two solid options we’re looking at:

• July 6–12 – Cumberland, MD (13 spots available)
• July 20–26 – North Haledon, NJ (33 spots available)

Cost:

• $475 – Next Level Track (ideal for first-timers)
• $510 – Elevate Track (for those wanting deeper leadership & reflection)

This includes meals, housing, t-shirts, supplies, staff support—plus tons of joy, growth, and impact.

Learn more about CHWC here

Need-to-Know:

• Open to students entering 8th grade through age 20 (college freshman and sophomores can pull up!)
• Min of 2 students per trip (looking for at least 5)
• 1 adult chaperone (age 21+) per 5 students

Bonus Option: Local Service Week + Diocesan Retreat

If CHWC doesn’t work—or you’re looking to double up on impact—we’re also planning a local service week right here at home.

Top week to flag: June 23–29

That’s likely right after school ends, and here’s why I’m especially excited about it…

We’ll serve in the community Monday through Thursday—and then wrap up the week with a Diocesan Youth Retreat at Anna Maria College from June 27–29. I’ll actually be one of the keynote speakers at that retreat and leading the men’s session too. I’ve been blessed to speak at retreats, conferences, and youth camps around the country, and I’d love for you all to experience this one right here in our own diocese. Come rep St. Matt’s, support me, and most importantly—experience a life-changing retreat with fun and fellowship. Registration for this retreat June 27-29 is due May 23rd, so fill out the form ASAP if you're interested. 

Other local service week options (if June doesn’t work):

• July 14–18
• July 28–August 1
• August 11–15

What’s Next?

Please fill out this quick Google Form to let me know which weeks you’re available/interested. Based on your responses, I’ll finalize plans and set up an info meeting/call! 

[Google Form Link Here]

One Last Thing:

I know summer gets wild—vacations, summer homes, all the things. So seriously, no pressure or guilt if you can’t make it. But I didn’t want you to miss the chance to do something real—serve, grow, have fun, and make memories.

And I want to share that this goes both ways because church isn’t the only place God shows up—He’s in the bleachers, on the field, at the concert, wherever life happens.

So keep me in the loop and Fr. Flynn and I will roll up to games in the Beamer and embarrass you from the stands. Fair warning. 

With that said, let me know if you have any questions, or if I missed something. Grateful for you. 

Peace + blessings,

Rick

Director of Youth Ministry

St. Matthew’s Church

Cell: 774-519-8741