The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth invite volunteers to join an upcoming immersion experience in Philadelphia Oct. 15-19, 2026.
This will be our third immersion trip in partnership with the Community of St. James. While previous teams concentrated on home repairs, this year’s volunteers will focus on supporting The Welcome Table and its outreach to families in North Philadelphia.
About The Welcome Table
The Welcome Table is a community resource hub where neighbors can access food, clothing, health coaching, educational opportunities, home-repair assistance, legal support and resources for economic mobility.
The ministry works with residents to identify local needs and develop community-led responses. Its programs include a farmers market, neighborhood refrigerator, adult education, health services and opportunities for neighbors to gather, share resources and build relationships.
Volunteers may assist with food distribution, meal preparation, organizing supplies and other activities that support the ministry’s daily work.
Continuing Our Work in Philadelphia
The SCN Lay Mission Volunteer Program previously brought a team to Philadelphia in 2024. Seven volunteers, led by Sister Luke Boiarski, worked with St. James School and The Welcome Table. They completed six major projects, including yard cleanups, awning repairs and painting. Each day also included prayer, reflection and time with students and neighborhood residents.
During a later immersion, volunteers continued serving families near St. James School. They replaced a damaged fence, built and repaired retaining walls, installed insulation and drywall, repaired ceilings and added lighting. The team also learned more about The Welcome Table’s farmers market and neighborhood refrigerator.
These projects improved homes and quality of life for residents, but the mission extended beyond construction. Volunteers shared meals, listened to residents and formed meaningful relationships. Through prayer and service, they encountered Christ in the people they met.
This year’s shift to The Welcome Table offers volunteers a new way to continue that work. Participants will serve alongside local leaders and neighbors while helping families access food, resources and community support.
Trip Information
Dates: Oct. 15-19, 2026
Trip fee: $700
The fee includes:
- Round-trip airfare
- Basic meals
- Lodging
This immersion is an opportunity to step away from daily routines, serve with others and put faith into action. No matter the task, each volunteer can contribute to a ministry built on dignity, hospitality and care for one’s neighbor.
Space is limited, and applications close Sept. 11.
Ready to serve with us? Request an application today.