Alternative Break Experiences (ABE)
"ABE is a chance to experience a new view on life,
to learn from those who you thought you would teach,
to question your faith and have it grow stronger
after experiencing God's creations and love in the world."
~San Lucas Mission Participant, 2010
What is ABE?
ABE is an ecumenical program offered through CSB Campus Ministry that works hard to provide meaningful, service-oriented trips, both nationally and internationally. We firmly believe that exposure to other cultures, places, and ways of life will enhance the lives and perspectives of trip participants. We differ from mission trips in that our purpose is not to spread the Word of the Lord but rather to attend to the needs of the site and serve them, while also learning about the issues that each site faces. Each year, we strive to provide quality experiences that will complement academic experiences and inspire hearts.
2012-2013 Theme
"Turning to One Another"- Margaret Wheatley
"There is no power greater than a community discovering what it cares about.
Ask: 'What's possible?' not 'What's wrong?' Keep asking.
Notice what you care about. Assume that many others share your dreams.
Be brave enough to start a conversation that matters. Talk to people you know. Talk to people you don't know. Talk to people you never talk to.
Be intrigued by the differences you hear. Expect to be surprised. Treasure curiosity more than certainty.
Invite in everybody who cares to work on what's possible. Acknowledge that everyone is an expert about something. Know that creative solutions come from new connections.
Remember, you don't fear people whose story you know. Real listening always brings people closer together.
Trust that meaningful conversations can change your world.
Rely on human goodness. Stay together."
Five Pillars
Students, co-leaders and staff combine the 5 Pillars of ABE as a framework to guide their trip experience. Alternative Break Experiences are not typical mission trips, and our participants are not typical tourists. By embracing these pillars, our participants grow in values-based leadership and develop a more integrated global vision. Derived from our Catholic and Benedictine heritage, the concepts of Social Justice, Community, Reflection, Learning and Intentional Living merge, offering participants an experience to inspire their lives.
ABE Trips
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Have questions? See our FAQs page or contact us with questions or comments at abe@csbsju.edu