When many people think of Kansas City, Missouri, they think of Arrowhead Stadium, Royals baseball, and flavorful barbecue. This past summer, however, a group of Jesuit students learned that there is much more to Kansas City than they previously thought. As a part of a special immersion trip, they spent a week living and serving at the Jerusalem Farm (JF), a nonprofit organization based in Kansas City. 

The group departed from Jesuit on June 2, 2024. Upon arrival, they were greeted warmly by members of the JF community serving and living there. The community members had varying levels of history with the program’s four cornerstones: community, prayer, simplicity, and service. The Marauders lived and grew in these values through daily life on the farm.

Life at JF was incredibly simple. While living simply demanded an adjustment, Jayden Canio ’25 found the adjustment to be worthwhile. 

“It was definitely different from what I’m used to at home,” Jayden said. “A vegetarian diet, limited A/C, and short showers was something that I had to adapt to, but it was great to be aware of the meaning and intent behind that.”

Jesuit students found themselves doing work that demanded being present in the moment, like working outside in the community garden. Jayden appreciated being able to “unplug” during the trip.

“Going on this trip, I wasn’t really sure what to expect,” Jayden said. “I knew that we were gonna be without our phones and [everyday] technology, though. I wasn’t looking forward to that at first, but later I came to appreciate it because I know my phone would’ve prevented me from living in that simplistic way.”

Robert Whitney ’25 believes that the relationships he formed with his fellow service members were a standout part of the experience.

“The service ended up being a really enjoyable part of the trip,” Robert said. “When we went to some of the worksites, it was cool to be able to get to know people who have such a different background from me. I specifically remember talking with a worker named Joseph, who is from the Congo. We were able to have a nice conversation about sports while painting a house, and that was a great part of my trip.”

During the trip, students were able to interact with and serve members of the Pendleton Heights neighborhood. Like with the connections he made with fellow workers, Robert values the relationships he formed with residents in the neighborhood.

“Doing work on those houses was tough, but [what made] it rewarding was getting to meet some of the homeowners,” Robert said. “My workgroup got to meet one of the older homeowners named Bobby. Bobby was a great dude and it was awesome that he wanted to make us feel at home.”

The trip to JF was a great experience for all that were involved. Jesuit students gained insight into a simpler way of living, and learned how to make a lasting impact in their community.