Editor’s Note: On Nov. 17, Medford’s St. Mary of the Lakes Y.E.S. ministry, with Knights of Columbus Council 6520, traveled to Camden for a National Stop the Violence Alliance service project. The group’s mission is to work toward nonviolence by building community relationships through ministerial outreach, youth programs, law enforcement, etc. Following is a reflection from youth ministry member Matthew Mitchell about his experience.
Story by Matthew Mitchell | Special Contributor
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
The National Stop the Violence Alliance Inc. is one group that strives to live out this Gospel message daily in an effort to bridge the gap between law enforcement and those living in inner-city communities by building trust. The group seeks to provide resources and mentorship opportunities to those living among the threat of daily gun violence and crime.
On Nov. 17, I was fortunate enough to participate in the group’s annual event held at Virtua Hospital in Camden, and traveled with members of St. Mary of the Lakes Youth Energized in the Spirit (Y.E.S.) youth group and Knights of Columbus Council 6520, of which I am a newly installed first degree Knight.
The day began by picking up turkeys and pies, which we then brought with us to Camden. Both teens and Knights worked in tandem to set up food stations, set tables, and reheat and serve food to the 100-plus guests in attendance. In addition to providing food for the meal, we also set out table games such as table tennis, Connect 4 and cards.
As more people began to arrive, I was able to sit down with many different people. I met two State Police officers who collectively had over 40 years of service. We discussed how important it is to end violence and how that could impact the future as we know it. I also met many local kids and teens, and we bonded in multiple ways. We played table games together, and spoke of the importance of our Catholic faith and how it is up to our generation to look out for one another and to make the world a better and safe place for all.
We had an opportunity to introduce ourselves by going around the room and stating one thing that we are thankful for. When it was my turn, I shared that I was thankful for being part of the day. The group and mission really touched me because I believe it is necessary to end violence. We are all connected and should strive to make the world a better place in which to live and work in peace.
I learned a great deal from this service event. Today, there seems to be a struggle to end violence, and the National Stop the Violence Alliance is a group that is trying to foster understanding and bridge the gap between law enforcement and civilians. This group, rather than keeping their distance from the men in blue, is trying to encourage appreciation for the police and to recognize that they are not the enemy.
As a practicing Catholic, I grew up learning to work differences out in a peaceful manner and to love my neighbor. The National Stop the Violence Alliance is an important group because they strive to do just that. The idea to treat others as you wish to be treated is the best way that I can describe this group. It is a vital resource to the inner-city community, especially in light of the times in which we are living. I am very grateful that I was given the opportunity to spend the day serving with such an important organization, and making new connections with young people who are not so different from myself.
Matthew Mitchell is a senior in Holy Cross Preparatory Academy, Delran. He is a first degree Knight of Council 6520, an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion and altar server. He is also a 2018 recipient of the Diocese’s St. Timothy Award.