South ATX Canterbury Focuses on Building New Relationships within Non-Traditional College Students

South ATX Canterbury is a new expression of ministry. The ministry is directed to commuter, community college, distance-learning degree, and first-generation college students. South ATX officially launched its community in the fall of 2022 at host church St. Alban’s, Austin. The campus ministry is focused on building relationships, inhabiting its newly outfitted space, and learning about what young adults need from their faith community at this pivotal point in their lives.

“This diverse–in every way–group of post high school youth is a constant reminder of the deep value of relationships within intentional community,” said Lisa Perez, missioner for South ATX. “Being able to offer funds for things like gas and childcare costs has eliminated hurdles and made it an equitable opportunity for the young adults. In 2023, they are looking forward to a volunteer-focused mission trip, engaging in the parish life of St. Alban’s, and finding more opportunities to serve the community.”

Perez has a background as an educator and currently works with first-year teachers at Austin Community College’s Teacher Certification Program. She also layers that job with her work as youth minister at St. Alban’s, Austin.

“South ATX Canterbury has been a natural extension of that ministry,” she said.

When not in the classroom or at church, Perez spends as much time as possible with her husband and two children.