Encountering Christ through Service WITH JESSICA NAHMIAS, SERVICE COORDINATOR

Can you share how the service program is unique at MDSA?

The service program at MDSA is unique because it focuses on encountering Christ in each person served. We encourage students to engage with the poor or with those in need directly through the corporal works of mercy. The service program challenges students to use their gifts, talents, and passions to give joyfully and put their faith into action.

What are your goals for this program?

My goals for the service program are for students to develop relationships with those whom they are serving by consistently volunteering with a program that they are passionate about. I hope students not only serve the poor but also know the poor. Building relationships takes showing up—again and again. My ongoing goal is for each student to open their hearts to encounter the Lord in the person they are serving. My bigger, long-term goals are to establish yearly domestic and international mission trips over spring break and summer break.

How has your work as service coordinator impacted your own faith?

I went on my first mission trip when I was a high school student. That weeklong mission trip sparked something within me: to keep going back, to keep giving my time, to keep serving others. That spark from one week in high school was the first light that slowly affected the rest of my life in high school and college, ultimately leading me to be a missionary for a year in Ecuador. Accompanying my neighbors in Ecuador through suffering, poverty, and injustice, I encountered the vastness of God’s presence, love, and mercy. As the MDSA service coordinator, I have witnessed the way that God meets students beyond the chapel and beyond the school building. I have been able to see and hear students’ hearts be moved, just like mine was back in high school, and reminded that our call to serve the poor is a lifelong mission.

How have you witnessed the Holy Spirit working in the lives of the MDSA students?

I have witnessed the Holy Spirit moving students through their passions and the realization that service can be fun! When students realize that it is more than a requirement for graduation, they allow themselves to connect their passions, interests, and hearts to their service, and they look forward to serving again.

What are your interests and hobbies?

Beyond the walls of MDSA, you can almost always find me outside rock climbing or hiking. I absolutely love dancing Lindy Hop and Balboa, too! Through all my interests, I enjoy bringing friends together to be present to Christ’s joy and beauty around us in both the extraordinary and ordinary.