Core Program Elements
Encounter
“Face of Christ” Encounters
- Visits to local communities (bateyes)
- Time with women’s groups, youth groups, and sugar cane workers
- Engagement with ministries: healthcare, women’s groups, children, union leaders, etc.
Community and Simple Living
- Shared living space and meals
- Tech-free time
- Build community with ASCALA’s staff
Social Justice and Contextual Education
Key Themes:
- Immigration: Haiti/DR dynamics
- Labor rights and worker exploitation
- Gender violence and empowerment
- Economic justice and the sugar industry
- Racism and anti-Blackness
Key Activities:
- Learn about ASCALA
- Meet sugarcane workers and local leaders, human rights activists, others
- Encounters with local women’s groups and local development projects
- Radio Seybo: a local radio station giving voice to the stories of those who face injustice.
- Visit historic Santo Domingo and reflect on the history of colonization impacting life today
Reflect
Spiritual and Faith Formation
- Daily prayer, guided reflections, and evening sharing
- Silent arrival from the airport to set the tone for contemplation
- Participation in local Masses and communal prayers
- Learn about the charism of the Scalabrini Sisters and their commitment to working with migrants and refugees
- Witness talks by RdC Fellows, partners, and community members
Respond
Vocation and Personal Call
- Testimonies from Fellows and partners
- Reflect on personal vocation
- Final group reflection and next steps:
- How do I take this experience back with me?
- How can I be an advocate for a faith that works for justice?
