Mission Trip to Caribbean Orphanage a Big Success

St. James Parish in Arlington Heights recently organized a hugely successful mission trip to Nuestros Pequenos Hermanos Orphanage in the Dominican Republic. All thirteen volunteers were deeply impacted by the hospitality and kindness of the children and staff at NPH where they stayed.

The volunteers worked on a house extension for one of NPH's staff members. Under the supervision of a local builder, the group dug ditches for the foundation, mixed cement, laid cinder blocks and were able to build up to the roof line. Two nurses from the group also joined with volunteer doctors from Finland and worked in a make-shift clinic, as well as made home visits.

Men and women from the St. James group worked at the orphanage in the 'Special Needs' house and repaired wheelchairs and bicycles too. Each night, the group gathered on the roof of the volunteer house where they shared experiences and reflected on the day. They even had the opportunity to take kids to the local pool and went to a Triple-A Baseball game.

NPH orphanages were designated as a parish sharing project by retired pastor Fr. Bill Zavaski. The new pastor, Fr. Matt Foley, has continued the effort. For more information about the St. James mission trip to the Dominican Republic, please contact Marianne Dilsner at mdilsner@stjamesah.org or contact the St. James parish at 224-345-7200 or email parishoffice@stjamesah.org