Changing the Face of Charity

Changing the Face of Charity by Living Jesus’s Ministry

At Valley Catholic High School, Gabriel Franco, Director of Campus Ministry, is helping shape students’ understanding of service and charity through hands-on experiences that go beyond traditional classroom teachings. His approach to ministry emphasizes the importance of living out the teachings of Jesus, particularly through direct service to those in need.

One of the most meaningful initiatives Franco oversees is the sophomore day of service, an integral part of the students’ annual retreat. This day brings students face-to-face with people in the community – allowing them to engage with people who are served by charitable organizations and to see the direct effect of their service for others.

“The decision to have sophomores participate in a day of service as part of their retreat is rooted in the desire to provide them with a meaningful, hands-on experience that brings the teachings of Christ to life,” Franco explained. “By engaging directly with the community, especially those most in need, students witness the effect of their actions and understand the importance of living out the teachings of Christ through service.”

A key partnership in this initiative is with St. André Bessette Catholic Church in Portland. St. André Bessette is known for its outreach to the homeless and underserved populations in the heart of Old Town. Inspired by the church’s mission of welcoming and serving the vulnerable, Franco saw this as a natural partner for Valley Catholic’s service efforts.

“St. André Bessette’s mission aligns perfectly with our goal to make a meaningful difference,” Franco said. “Their work reflects the life of their patron saint, and by working with them, our students are directly involved in proclaiming God’s love through acts of service.”

Franco’s approach to ministry is not just about organizing service opportunities; it’s about reshaping students’ perspectives on charity. Many students enter these experiences with a simplified understanding of charity as a one-way act of giving. Through their work with local organizations, however, they come to understand charity on a much deeper level.

Franco believes it is essential for students to interact directly with people who rely on charitable organizations, especially when these interactions challenge the students’ preconceived notions.

“At St. André Bessette, the students meet people who come from all walks of life, including those who may not fit the typical stereotype of someone in need,” he said. “This broadens their understanding and encourages them to approach service with compassion and an open mind.”

Franco is supported by the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon whose Charism intertwines  the call to be compassionate, joyful servants of the Lord into their daily lives. He is also encouraged by people at Valley Catholic School who share this vision. Dr. Sara Bruins, a vocal advocate for student engagement in social justice, was instrumental in proposing the day of service for sophomores. John Matcovich, the school’s president, regularly joins students in service activities. He follows Jesus’s model of leadership service by rolling up his sleeves and working alongside them.

“John’s presence at these events inspires our students,” Franco said. “Seeing a leader in the community actively serving others strengthens the sense of solidarity within the school.”

Looking to the future, Franco’s long-term goal is to see students progress from viewing service as a requirement to recognizing it as an opportunity for personal growth and a way to live out their faith. He envisions students creating capstone projects in their senior year using their service experiences to shape their understanding of their role in the world.

Franco’s approach to ministry is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus, as outlined in the school’s handbook and embodied by the Bible verse Matthew 25:35: “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” Through service, Franco hopes students will carry these lessons with them beyond high school, applying them in their careers, communities, and personal lives.

“Our faith calls us to be active participants in the world, using our talents and gifts to serve the common good,” Franco said. “I want students to ask themselves, ‘How can I be of service?’ and to strive to build a more just and loving society.”

This year’s holiday drive provided a clear example of the difference Franco hopes to make. Frances King from Second Home, an organization supporting homeless high school students, spoke to Valley Catholic students about how their contributions make a direct difference. This connection between service and the effect it makes on real people is central to Franco’s vision for ministry at Valley Catholic.

Gabriel Franco’s leadership ensures that Valley Catholic students not only grow academically and spiritually, but also helps them understand the value of service as a vital part of their faith journey.