by Leticia Romero (M.B.A. ’25)
During Spring Break 2025, 13 undergraduate students, led by St. Mary’s University staff, embarked on a journey deep into the wild spaces of the Chihuahua Desert in far West Texas.
The University Ministry-sponsored Big Bend Wilderness Retreat started with a two-day backpacking expedition navigating the backcountry of Big Bend Ranch State Park, followed by a three-day, two-night canoeing expedition along the Rio Grande River that challenged students physically, provided an opportunity for spiritual growth and inspired the group to become dedicated stewards of the planet.
Before setting out, participants read Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’ encyclical on caring for our common home. Its call for environmental stewardship, social justice and an integral ecology became the foundation for the group’s journey and shaped conversations throughout the retreat, said Saul Polanco (M.A. ’24), St. Mary’s University’s Minister of Retreats and Spiritual Development.
The Rev. Donald Rank, O.F.M. Cap, of Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church, offered daily Mass, allowing time to celebrate the Eucharist in awe-inspiring landscapes.
“The religious experience was profound,” said Julian Ramirez, a second-year J.D. student at the St. Mary’s University School of Law. “I struggled with the tough hikes, especially in the desert, and initially regretted attending the retreat. But after morning Mass, I shifted my mindset, recognizing that many may never have this opportunity. That perspective changed everything.”
“St. Mary’s has taught me to care deeply about the world around me.”
— Anna Steck, International and Global Studies major
Campers participated in morning, late afternoon and evening prayers, drawing on the ancient rhythm of faith in harmony with nature.
“St. Mary’s has taught me to care deeply about the world around me,” said Anna Steck, an International and Global Studies major. “We saw our inner strength in overcoming physical and mental challenges in the wilderness. These experiences supported my education at St. Mary’s and instilled a deep care for the world.”
St. Mary’s students also learned the fundamentals of wilderness survival — how to pitch a tent under the starlit sky, cook a meal in the heart of nature and travel responsibly through untouched landscapes. Student participation in the retreat was free, supported by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Community Outdoor Outreach Program Grant.
Through this grant, the University Ministry team supplied the participants with tents, backpacks, sleeping bags and other camping accessories.
“I hope we can continue to repeat this experience for students every year,” said Polanco, who is also exploring more experiences closer to San Antonio in the surrounding Hill Country. “I’m convinced programs like this are critical in bridging the education gap Pope Francis talks about in Laudato Si’ in ‘educating for the covenant between humanity and the environment.’”
