2025 El Paso Border Immersion

Build Walls or Build Bridges?

May 12-18, 2025

Come see for yourself what the reality is at the US/Mexico border. You’ve probably heard or read many stories about what is happening there, but this is your chance to see and learn for yourself. We will stay in El Paso, Texas with a one day visit to Juarez, Mexico. You’ll have an opportunity to engage first-hand with migrants who are seeking refuge in the U.S. sharing meals with them and listening to their stories. You will also have an opportunity to learn from those who are working with and advocating for the migrants as well as listening to a presentation from the Border Patrol. Our day trip to Juarez will give you a chance to see what life is like on the other side and to visit programs that serve the people of that city. Finally, with our daily group prayer and reflections you will have an opportunity to filter what you are experiencing through the lens of the gospel and Catholic teaching.

Trip includes:

Onsite visits to various programs serving migrants in El Paso, TX, and a chance to hear from Maryknoll Lay Missioners working there.
A time to cook and serve meals at one of the migrant shelters.
A presentation from the Border Patrol and a chance to see the border wall.
Mass at the Jesuit Sacred Heart Parish
A visit with two or three programs serving individuals and families in Juarez, MX.
Orientation to the social, political, and economic realities of the border.
Opportunities for daily prayer, reflection, and faith sharing.
Ongoing missionary discipleship support and formation before, during, and after the trip

*Subject to change

Learn what others said about this trip: “Listening to the migrant mothers at the shelter in Juarez made a deep impression on me. I learned about their hopes, fears, pains, sorrows. It was intense and incredibly valuable.” - 2023 Border trip participant

Participant requirements and conditions

Trip Cost: $1,000
The trip cost includes accommodations, meals, local transportation, and entry fees during the trip. Participants are responsible for arranging and covering their own transportation to and from the trip location, as well as any required travel documents and incidental expenses. Generally, a current Passport with an expiration date exceeding at least 6 months from trip date is required. Check the U.S. State website for more information.

About Maryknoll Immersion Trips
Maryknoll immersion trips are a ministry designed to foster missionary discipleship. Read more about our trips on our website. Participants are selected based on the potential impact the trip may have on their faith journey. Trip costs are calculated based on the expected number of participants, with each individual asked to contribute at least their share. Contributions beyond the required amount are appreciated, as they support others in participating in future trips. These contributions may be tax-deductible; donors should consult their financial and legal advisors for guidance.

Financial Assistance and Fundraising
For participants unable to afford their share, fundraising with family, friends, and community members is encouraged. If fundraising does not fully cover the cost, financial assistance may be available through Maryknoll by submitting a subsidy request form.

Registration and Preparation
After registering, a trip leader will contact you to ensure the trip is a good fit. Upon acceptance by Maryknoll, participants must complete the Risk Awareness and Travel Agreement, which includes essential details and important information. Participants will also receive information on the required non-refundable deposit and full payment deadlines.

Please note: Trips require a minimum number of participants to proceed. Do not make any travel arrangements until advised by the trip leader.

For any questions or further assistance, feel free to reach out. We look forward to journeying with you!

El Paso, TX / Juarez, Mexico Border Immersion

Build Walls or Build Bridges?

May 12-18, 2025