Instead of relaxing after a long school year, Loren Bennett, 20, devoted her summer interning with Totus Tuus — which translates to ‘totally yours’ — in her home diocese of Tyler, Texas.
“We study the glorious mysteries (of the rosary) and the Our Father and talk about the difficulties of prayer and how to fix it,” working with elementary and high school students, she said. “ … We go to daily Mass and adoration.”
Bennett, a junior psychology major at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, has loved the opportunity to work with kids, but said her most meaningful act of service to God is through music.
“I’m in charge of music ministry at the (Blessed John) Newman Center,” helping to organize the music and play at some Masses, she said. “Something I really enjoy doing is playing guitar and singing for people in adoration, or anywhere really, and just doing it for God, all while helping others grow closer to him through music.”
Bennett, a member of Sacred Heart Church in Texarkana, Texas, said campus ministry has had a positive influence on her college experience.
“I’ve definitely gotten help with tutoring,” she laughed, adding, “But the best part has been having immediate friends. It can be hard to introduce yourself in class and it’s nice always having people to eat lunch with and get support from.”
Campus ministry and music has also had an impact on her faith.
“I’ve learned so much and there is still so much to learn. It all brings me closer to heaven,” she said.
• What is at the top of your bucket list? Why?
“To be able to play guitar at a concert during adoration in front of a huge crowd.”
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