I had an awful middle school experience that led to a pretty painful sense of loneliness and a lack of belonging.

I remember sitting at the mass at the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice (IFTJ) my junior year of high school and for the first time ever, feeling that the people who surrounded me wanted me there with them. I remember an incredible feeling of God's love, of solidarity, compassion, dedication, and belonging.

As we sang "We are one body," I truly felt for the first time ever that I belonged to that body both as a Catholic and more simply as a person. It was there and in that moment I first felt the call to be a Jesuit.

Fast forward to sophomore year of college and it was my 5th time attending the Teach-In. This time I was a Eucharistic Minister, distributing the cup. I couldn't help but smile every time I said, "Blood of Christ." I just felt at home and that I was sharing that bit of home with those around me. Although I had been thinking about it a great deal, serving at the Teach-In Mass really sparked me to take action and finally ask for the application to join the Jesuits.

My experiences in high school have framed what I want IFTJ and ISN to be for others--a place they can call home. I want students to have a place where they know they are loved, welcome, and challenged to grow. I want students, especially those from oppressed backgrounds and communities, to know that there is a group committed to their dignity and well-being. I think this is especially needed in the Church, where it is easy for many to feel like they don't belong. I think ISN does an amazing job of helping the Church's mission come alive.

I encourage you to consider contributing to ISN's End of the Year campaign. Any size gift helps this small but mighty organization continue to be a place of welcome, growth, and love for the Ignatian family. Donate today.

Peace and Joy,     

Br. Ken Homan, S.J. | Jesuit Brother of the Midwest Province


P.S. Did you know ISN has a monthly giving program? Sign up by January 1, and receive a small ISN thank you gift!