Youth Immersion Programs
Diocesan Youth Immersion Programs 2010
Mission Statement
The Immersion programs of the Diocese of San Jose educate teens on issues of social justice and involve Catholic teens from the Diocese in meaningful service activities that address the issues of poverty and immigration in Santa Clara County and along the U.S.-Mexico Border region. Special emphasis is placed on Catholic Social Teaching, and on developing a faith that does justice.
New Mexico Immersion, July 22-26, 2010
Cost: $600. Includes airfare, housing and food. Northern New Mexico is one of the most culturally distinct areas of the United States. It is the home of both ancient Native American communities and towns founded by Spanish settlers long before the inception of the United States. Visitors serving Northern New Mexico will learn about the ancient acequia irrigation system, work on an organic farm, and contribute to land and cultural restoration efforts in local communities and on the regional native pueblos. This trip is a partnership between the Diocese of San Jose and the Shinnyo-en Buddhist Temple. Participants from both groups will be involved in intra-religious dialogue in and will have a chance to learn about each otherʼs faith tradition.
San Jose Justice Awareness Week, July 26-30th, 2010
Cost: $150. Includes all program costs. Students will be involved in assisting Catholic
Charities of Santa Clara County with various programs including serving meals at
homeless shelters and working with low-income children. This program takes an in-
depth look at poverty in our local community. You will provide direct assistance to the
needy, learn why people are poor and learn about Catholic teachings on social
justice.
For more information about these opportunities check out the Diocese Immersion website at: http://web.me.com/immersiondsj/
Who can apply?
Only current High School students may apply for the New Mexico Trip and the San Jose Justice Awareness trip.
How will people be chosen?
The adults supervising the trips will review the applications. The criteria for selecting participants will take into consideration the timeliness of submitting the application, the essay explaining your reasons for wanting to participate, balancing of males and females and the recommendation form.
What are the deadlines for submitting applications?
There is no deadline; first come first served.
When will the participants be chosen?
You will be notified of your status within a week of submitting your application.
How can I find out more information?
E-mail Deacon Steve Herrera at immersion@dsj.org, or call 408-832-7666.
What will be my commitment if I am chosen?
1. You will be expected to turn in a non-refundable deposit to hold your spot. The acceptance materials will outline the payment schedule and due dates.
2. You will attend at least one mandatory preparatory meeting for the trip, to be held in the May 11th at 7:00pm of 2010 at Transfiguration Parish.
3. You will turn in all paperwork and make payments toward the trip according to schedule.
Where do I turn in my Application?
The preferred method of turning in your application is to give it to your Youth Minister at your parish. If your parish does not have a Youth Minister you may mail it directly to the address at the bottom of the application. If the recommendations are turned in separately from the application they may be sent directly to the Diocese.
Click here to learn more about the justice experiences.
Click here for an application form.