What does it truly mean to serve others? The Xaverian senior class sought to answer that question during a service retreat where they explored the importance of compassion and humility.

During a period of reflection, a quote from St. Oscar Romero read: “You cannot reap what you have not sown. How are we going to reap love in our community if we only sow hate?”

St. Romero, a voice for people experiencing poverty, is the inspiration for the Romero Center Ministries, where the Clippers stayed for the weekend. The trip began with an introductory meeting and a time for reflection. The evening featured a meeting with Teresa Garibay C., director of the Romero Ministry, who shared her knowledge of Camden's history and the challenges its people face. The night concluded with a reflection period, during which students asked themselves questions such as "What was today’s gift?” and "What was today’s challenge?”

The next day, the Clippers embarked on a full day of service. One group headed to a neighborhood center to clean out a classroom in preparation for an upcoming party for students. They mopped and swept floors, moved furniture, and cleaned toys and books. Their teamwork and determination did not go unnoticed.

During recess, children who attend the center praised the students, calling them "superheroes.” Volunteer coordinator Valerie Cooke thanked the Clippers for their dedication and hard work, saying she was amazed by their effort to make the classroom shine again.

The next stop for the Clippers was the Cathedral Kitchen, an organization that serves hot meals and warm smiles to hundreds of people facing food insecurity. Meals were served, tables were set, and snack bags were given out to families. Conversations blossomed between students and guests, many of whom expressed their gratitude for being there. Talking to people in the kitchen opened the students’ eyes to the realities of poverty and changed their perspectives.

On the second day, the seniors visited the Abigail House, a nursing home and rehabilitation center. Students spent time with residents, painting nails, playing board games, and coloring together. The residents were eager to share stories about their lives, filling the room with laughter and warmth.

By the end of the retreat, the seniors left Camden with tired hands but full hearts — having lived out Xaverian's core values of serving with humility, leading with compassion, learning with zeal, living with simplicity, and praying with trust.