Teens participate in Night of Poverty event at St. Mary of the Lakes Parish
A group of 30 teens and young adult leaders spent a night outdoors at St. Mary of the Lakes Parish in Eustis, experiencing conditions similar to those faced by people without homes. The event, called Night of Poverty, took place in late February and was intended to help participants better understand the challenges faced by homeless individuals.
Monica Vega, catechetical director for the parish, explained that the goal was for participants to “safely experience poverty so we may become more aware of the struggle (and) sufferings of our fellow man, which might be ours one day.”
Participants slept on the concrete floor in sleeping bags as temperatures dropped to 63 degrees. They had only bread and water during the night. The event also served as a fundraiser for St. Luke’s Medical Clinic and the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry at the parish. Activities included guest speakers, Eucharistic Adoration, prayer sessions, Scripture reflections, and games.
One speaker recounted his own experience with homelessness after losing his wife to cancer and facing financial difficulties. He described living in his car and relying on donations from strangers before converting to Catholicism. His story made an impression on those present.
Andrea R., one of the participants, reflected on her experience: “Just sitting on the concrete was uncomfortable and then laying on it to sleep was even more,” she said. “I couldn’t imagine sleeping through those conditions every night.” She added that spending a night outside helped her appreciate what she has and inspired her to help others.
Deacon Jim Shelley assisted with Eucharistic Adoration from 8 p.m. until 8 a.m., offering participants a place for quiet reflection if they could not sleep or wanted time for prayer.
“If we couldn’t sleep or we just wanted to be there, we were able to go and just sit before Jesus,” Vega said. “At 3 a.m. I found myself with a couple of teenagers there praying for them, and it was very nice.”
Kenya L., another participant, valued this time: “I really loved Eucharistic Adoration,” she said. “It was a peaceful time to just sit, pray, and reflect.”
Emily L. commented on seeing faith at work among her peers: “how our Heavenly Father works in everybody’s life no matter the timing (or) place. It was amazing to see everybody’s heart overflow with the love of Jesus Christ.”
Participants noted lessons learned about hardship and compassion for others facing homelessness.
“This retreat opened up my eyes more on how the world truly is and how people actually struggle,” said Karina J. “Now I somewhat understand the suffering people go through every day.”
Event volunteer Ana Navarrete observed that participants were willing to sleep outside in solidarity with those who are poor: “They were open to sleep outside in solidarity with the poor,” Navarrete said. “(Although) they lacked sleep and comfort they were full of joy centered in the Lord.”
Deacon Shelley shared his perspective: Participants “experienced (a) very moving and challenging look at a part of human life we rarely have a chance to understand and experience.” He added that he saw another side of young parishioners — their care for each other, others in need, and their faith.
Yareli V., another attendee, spoke about breaking down judgments: “we need to stop judging a book by its cover and realize we are all the same.” She emphasized that everyone is called to help their neighbor: “God wants us to help each other out.”
Jason O., referencing one speaker’s message, stated: “The only thing truly promised is God’s love and that is something we can spread and share.”
The Diocese of Orlando was established in 1968 and today includes 79 parishes across several counties such as Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole, Sumter, and Volusia. The diocese is led by Bishop James Noonan (https://www.orlandodiocese.org/).
