By St. Mary Catholic Secondary School students Kellan Sneyd and Matteo Rocchetta
As many people know, over the March Break, a group of 37 DREAMS students, including us, embarked on a journey that took us far beyond the comforts of home and deep into the heart of the Dominican Republic. This wasn’t just a trip. It was a mission, a calling rooted in our Catholic faith, a time to live out the Gospel through love, service, and community.
We came with open hands and open hearts, ready to help build homes for families who had little to call their own. What we didn’t realize was how much we would receive in return.
Every brick laid, every nail hammered, and every wall raised told a story, not just of construction, but of hope. We worked alongside the local people, laughed with children who had so little but gave so much, and shared in moments that transcended language and culture. We were not just building houses, we were helping build dreams.
Our faith was our foundation. Each day began and ended in prayer, reflection, and gratitude. We saw Christ in the eyes of those we served and in one another. The Gospel came alive in the dusty roads, the humble homes, and the joy of shared meals. We were reminded of Jesus’ call to serve the least among us and to be His hands and feet in the world.
DREAMS changed us. We returned with sunburnt skin and tired muscles, but with fuller hearts and renewed spirits. We learned that true joy comes not from what we have, but from what we give. And we carry home with us the powerful truth that faith without action is incomplete.
The people of the Dominican Republic taught us resilience, faith, and generosity. They showed us that even in the most modest circumstances, dreams can flourish, and that when we work together, grounded in love and faith, we can help make those dreams come true.
