CCS Casa Hogar Juan Pablo II Mission Team
Every 2 to 3 years, Columbus Catholic High School Spanish students have the opportunity to travel and make a pilgrimage to Casa Hogar Juan Pablo II in Peru for ten days of service, language immersion, cultural exchange, and a faith-filled experience of a lifetime.
So far, the team has traveled in 2014, 2016, 2018, 2022, and 2024. (The 2020 trip was canceled due to COVID-19.) Our next trip is planned for August 2027.
Most people at Casa Hogar and in the surrounding community do not speak English, making this an ideal opportunity for students to practice their Spanish while living out their faith through service. Mission Team members act as positive role models, assist with hands-on work projects, and build meaningful relationships with the children.
They also learn about the inspiring life of Servant of God, Father Joe Walejewski, and the founding of Casa Hogar Juan Pablo II, discovering how one dedicated Christian can make a lasting difference in the world.
The Mission Team typically includes up to 12 Spanish students and at least three adult chaperones, including one adult male, one adult female, and a Spanish teacher. The team is often blessed with the presence of a chaplain who provides spiritual support throughout the journey. The adult chaperones are often parents of student participants.
Between mission trips, the team hosts a variety of fundraising events to help cover travel expenses, which are approximately $1,500 per student. Fundraisers include but are not limited to:
- Alpine Holiday Dessert Cart
- CCS Christmas and Spring Concert Bake Sales
- 50/50 Raffles
For more information, please contact the CCS High School and Middle School office, and you will be connected with a Mission Team leader.
Learn more about Casa Hogar Juan Pablo II at frjoesguild.org/casa-hogar-juan-pablo-ii.