Province News, Province Schools, Salesian Missions

St. Francis High School Participants Honored for Service in Tijuana Mission Experience

By JC Montenegro, PhD

(Watsonville, California — March 19, 2026) – During the solemn celebration of the Mass of St. Joseph at Mary Help of Christians Church, the community gathered to recognize students from St. Francis High School for their commitment and generosity in serving during the recent Tijuana mission trip.

The recognition took place in the presence of the full student body, highlighting the importance of missionary service as part of the formation of young people. Representing the Salesian mission, Juan Carlos Montenegro, Delegate for Mission Animation; Fr. Fabian Cárdenas, Delegate for Youth Ministry; and Luis Chacón, Coordinator of the Salesian Missionary Volunteer Program, presented the recognitions.

The Tijuana Short Mission Trip program, which began in 2018, continues to offer young people an experience of faith, service, and encounter. This year, 20 students participated in the mission, including 10 returning missionaries, reflecting the lasting impact of the experience. Among them, Kristie and Kyran were recognized in a special way, having participated in the mission for four consecutive years. Both students received a cross as a sign of their commitment and their growth into leaders who now take active roles in guiding others.

More than a service experience, the mission seeks to form young people as protagonists—capable of leading, serving, and responding generously to the needs of others. The witness of these students reflects the Salesian vision of accompanying the young as they discover their capacity to make a difference in the lives of others.

The community also recognized Chris Croghan, who has accompanied the students and coordinated the mission trip with dedication and care.

In his homily, Fr. Ted Montemayor reflected on the quiet and faithful service of St. Joseph, inviting the community to embrace a form of service that does not seek recognition but remains rooted in love and responsibility.

Following the Mass, the presentation of crosses marked a moment of gratitude and encouragement. The celebration continued with a time of fraternity, bringing together students, educators, and Salesians in a shared sense of mission.

This recognition serves as a reminder that missionary experiences continue to shape the hearts of young people, inviting them to live their faith through concrete acts of service and leadership.