Mission Trip to Casa Hogar in Peru & All Saints Reflections

Father James Kurzynski introduces himself as a new monthly host of Connecting the Diocese and interviews St. Olaf Parish staff members Dennis and Michelle about their 10-day mission trip to Casa Hogar Juan Pablo Segundo in Lurin, Peru, a diocesan-sponsored children’s home modeled on the Boys Town family-unit system. They discuss motivations for going, expectations versus realities, experiences of poverty and hospitality, relationships with children, and the idea of “reverse mission,” where residents minister to visitors. They describe visiting homes, a local funeral, daily Mass, and faith growth, including a visit to St. Martin de Porres’ tomb. The episode highlights support for Project Milk and closes with prayers for Pope Leo after lung cancer surgery, followed by a separate segment reflecting on All Saints readings, the Beatitudes, and holiness through the Eucharist.

01:26 Opening Prayer

02:27 Meet The Guests

06:45 Why Peru Mission

10:43 Expectations And Reality

17:38 Casa Hogar Family Model

19:41 Surprises And Stories

27:35 Dennis’ Memorable Moments

30:51 Translate Like a Local

31:31 Faith Growth in Peru

32:40 St Martin de Porres Visit

34:17 Rose Bud Thorn Reflections

36:20 Inspired by Forgiveness

38:23 Support Casa Hogar Mission

39:52 Project Milk Impact

41:31 Life at Casa Hogar

42:49 Tsunami Path Rock Project

46:27 All Saints Readings Overview

50:37 Communion of Saints

52:45 Eucharist Makes Saints

56:00 Everyday Holiness Story