35 Years of Mercy: Celebrating a Milestone of Service and Transformation

This year, Saint Joseph’s College of Maine marks a remarkable milestone: the 35th anniversary of Spring Break Workfest. What began in 1991 with an inaugural trip to Kentucky has blossomed into a signature SJC tradition rooted in service, solidarity, and personal growth.

For over three decades, Workfest has empowered students to travel across the country, living out our Mercy charism through direct service, a ministry of presence, and prayerful reflection.

Elevating the Experience: The “Mercy in Action” Course

To honor this special anniversary, SJC introduced a new credit-bearing academic option: the Mercy in Action course. This initiative elevates the traditional Workfest experience by pairing weeklong immersion with rigorous academic inquiry.

Members of this inaugural cohort didn’t just volunteer; they engaged in weekly preparation to build a deeper intellectual understanding of social justice and systemic inequities. By blending hands-on work with critical reflection, these students are growing into ethically grounded leaders dedicated to upholding the dignity of all people.

This Year’s Theme: “Cry of Earth and Cry of Poor”

Our most recent trip was both meaningful and impactful, centered on the dual responsibility of environmental and social stewardship.

• Caring for Our Common Home: We began the week at The Center at Mariandale, preparing the “Giving Garden.” This vital resource donates over 1,000 pounds of fresh produce to the local community each season. As we worked the soil, we reflected deeply on the importance of ecological care.
• Confronting Systemic Injustice: The group visited Sing Sing Correctional Facility for an intentional walk and reflection, sparked by a candid look at the injustices within the U.S. prison system.
• Building Community: During the latter half of the week, we partnered with the Fuller Center for Housing of Greater New York. It was a special highlight to work alongside Jim Killoran ’80, an SJC alumnus and the organization’s Executive Director.
• Ministry of Presence: Our evening programs included a Midnight Run into downtown Manhattan. Students sorted clothing and prepared food, sharing tangible support and conversation with unhoused individuals.

The Question That Remains: “Now What?”

As we closed the week, we moved from action to intention by asking one simple, vital question: “Now what?” The Workfest experience doesn’t end when the bus returns to Standish. We are challenged to consider how we will carry these lessons forward into our daily lives and future careers. With full hearts and energized spirits, the SJC community remains ready to continue putting Mercy into action.