2024 Immersion Trips

For information contact Zahira Sandoval or 773-493-3367 ext. 263

Life grows by being given away, and it weakens in isolation and comfort. Indeed, those who enjoy life most are those who leave security on the shore and become excited by the mission of communicating life to others.   Pope Francis, Joy of the Gospel

May 8 - 14, 2024

Go on an adventure with us beyond the stunning beaches and reggae music of Jamaica.  Make new friends as you hear the stories of challenge and hope that have  laid the foundation for the vibrant and diverse island.  We will be hosted by the small but dynamic Catholic community in Montego Bay. They will share with us their ministries on the streets, at the hospice, youth with developmental disabilities, schools, care of creation and more.  We will learn about the social, political and economic challenges, many of which are interconnected to us here in the U.S. We will eat, celebrate and pray with them as we build the bonds of global solidarity with our brothers and sisters on this fascinating Caribbean island.  Contact Zahira Sandoval if you are interested in knowing more. 

Postponed, stay tuned for more information!

June 4 - 12, 2024 

Answer the call to mission by going beyond your typical boundaries. Encounter the presence of God in a unique way by venturing to a place rich in history, culture, and ecosystems: Yucatan, Mexico. This trip will explore the history threaded both within the city of Merida, and throughout the lush Yucatán peninsula. The region boasts around 8,000 cenotes, or natural freshwater sinkholes, ancient Mayan sites, and the awe-inspiring Maya jungle.


This immersion trip will delve into the profound connection between indigenous spirituality and ecology under the theme of “care for creation”. You will engage with local communities, learning ancient ecological practices, and embracing a holistic approach to care for creation. You will be immersed in the vibrant tapestry of Yucatec culture, and the resilient world of sustainable agriculture that draws inspiration from ancient Mayan wisdom while learning about the challenges faced by farmers today. Build community by forging connections with one of Mexico’s largest indigenous communities and learn how they continue to struggle for their fundamental rights. Contact Zahira Sandoval if you are interested in knowing more. 

Come join us for an immersive experience delving into the challenges and joys of North America's indigenous peoples within the broader context of Maryknoll's mission work with indigenous communities worldwide. These communities are rich in ancient traditions and culture, yet often marginalized in society. Nevertheless, they have invaluable teachings to share about nurturing life in all its forms. Experience a sundance ceremony, opportunity to explore the issues regarding residential schools, and a deeper look at the connections with indigenous spirituality and care of creation. We will visit Wounded Knee ,Crazy Horse, Badlands National Park and Black Hills on this adventure through the plains of South Dakota. Contact Zahira Sandoval if you are interested in knowing more. 

July 9-17, 2024

Encounter Christ in our Guatemalan sisters and brothers as you explore the breathtaking beauty of this fascinating Central American country, adorned with a chain of 27 volcanoes and known as the "Country of Eternal Spring." Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Mayan culture, where traditional dances, music, and religious rites endure in rural regions. Share meals and stories to learn how Guatemalans, especially from indigenous communities, overcome their challenges with faith and hope. Visit impactful programs and projects that address human rights, care of creation, gangs and migration.   Trip includes visits to Iximche, Panajachel and Antigua Guatemala. Contact Zahira Sandoval if you are interested in knowing more. 

Kenya August 1-16, 2024

Embark on a transformative journey to Kenya, where Africa awaits. Immerse yourself in the joy of this captivating land, connecting with its rich tapestry of culture, history, and landscapes. Engage with heartwarming stories of resilience and hope from local communities, delving into the cultural diversity of indigenous ethnic groups and uncovering the challenges of climate change, sustainable agriculture, and debt confronting East Africa today. Our adventure begins in Nairobi and then continues to Mombasa and Malindi, offering glimpses into a hopeful future. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of nature with a safari in the iconic Masai Mara, witnessing the raw majesty of wildlife in their natural habitat. This expedition is an opportunity to appreciate our interconnectedness with the people and land of East Africa, fostering global solidarity and building meaningful connections that transcend borders.  Contact Zahira Sandoval if you are interested in knowing more. 

Postponed to 2025, stay tuned for more information!

Embark on a week-long transformative pilgrimage retreat to El Paso, Texas, and Juárez, Mexico, where you'll immerse yourself in the pressing realities at the US/Mexican border. Engage firsthand with immigrants seeking refuge in the US, sharing meals and listening to their stories, while gaining insights from Church workers, Border Patrol, and others. Guided by principles of social justice and spirituality, this unique trip encourages participants to reflect on their beliefs through prayer and the Gospel. We will stay at a retreat center with daily opportunities for prayer, liturgy and faith sharing. Explore the intricacies of migration, better understand the impact of U.S. immigration policies, and discern meaningful responses to these urgent issues. Join us on this meaningful journey of learning, compassion, and advocacy at the border. Contact Zahira Sandoval if you are interested in knowing more. 

November 8-19, 2024

Immerse yourself in Bolivia's unique cultural and spiritual tapestry, where history and mission converge for an extraordinary experience.  Embark on a captivating journey to a vibrant landlocked country in the heart of South America, boasting a diverse population of Amerindians, mestizos, Europeans, Asians, and Africans. Explore the enchanting Chiquitos territory in eastern Bolivia, where two or three meticulously preserved historic missions, founded between 1691 and 1760, earned UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1990. From there we will travel to the cultural richness of Cochabamba to meet and listen to the stories of resilience and hope.  We will visit Missionary Services Maryknoll to learn about their innovative missionary formation to Latin Americans and beyond through transformative programs that provide education, counseling, spiritual accompaniment, as well as addressing care of creation and ecological spirituality. Contact Zahira Sandoval if you are interested in knowing more. 

El Salvador

NEXT IMMERSION IN 2025


Maryknoll invites you to come to El Salvador and walk in St. Oscar Romero's footsteps, visit where he lived and worked and learn about others who were martyred protecting the people. Celebrate Mass in the chapel where his ministry came to a tragic end and discover how he has lived on in the people of El Salvador who carry on his mission finding love and joy in the face of daily struggle and challenge. Experience the food and culture of Central America. Contact Zahira Sandoval if you are interested in knowing more.

Walk in the footsteps of modern day martyrs in this 10 day spiritual journey for bishops, priests, brothers and permanent deacons. Learn why these courageous women and men, caught up in situations of civil war in which the people they served and the Catholic Church itself suffered persecution, were able to give their lives as witnesses of Jesus Christ. Contact Zahira Sandoval if you are interested in knowing more.