Reflections on Service and Joy

Beloved in the Desert is part of the Episcopal Service Corps with the mission of forming an intentional community for young adults that fosters beloved Christian disciples through service, study, and prayer in the Tucson borderlands. For more information click here.

Claire, a Beloved in the Desert Corps, reflects on some of their service work and the importance of taking time to dive deeply into things they enjoy. Read below for more information!

The Tucson Meet Yourself annual folklife festival held in downtown Tucson!

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“In September, I participated in the Community Food Bank’s annual fundraiser event, HungerWalk. I helped sign in volunteers at George Mehl Park. I had a great time talking to my co-workers, meeting some Community Food Bank supporters, and walking on the bike loop! I also participated in the Southern Arizona Volunteer Management Association (SAVMA) Volunteer Fair at the Reid Zoo! I got to talk to people about the Food Bank and check out other non-profits. Of course, I rode the carousel and saw my favorite zoo animal, elephants!

The past month, we as a house have gone through a lot of changes and challenges. The Episcopal Service Corps held a Resiliency training over zoom a few weeks ago. Members from Episcopal Service Corps across the country attended. I wasn’t sure what the training would entail but I found it very useful. One thing that stuck with me from the training is that one of the leaders said, “if you’re not taking the time to do things you enjoy, then something is wrong.” Something I really enjoy is swimming. I like to lap swim and swim for leisure. I haven’t been swimming as much as I would like to. I’ve made excuses like not having enough time throughout the day or the cost, but I want to build it back into my routine because it’s something I love doing.

This month I will be focusing on building a routine and doing more activities that are good for my mind, body, and soul. I joined the St. Philip’s Choir which has helped me feel grounded and feel connected to people at St. Philip’s. Not to say that I have not done things here that I have enjoyed. This past weekend, I went to Tucson Meet Yourself with a few friends. I had a blast. I’ve gone to coffee shops and hiked with friends. I’m looking forward to doing more of that.”

Claire at the Community Food Bank’s HungerWalk, walking on The Loop in Tucson!