Stories of Emmaus
Curious what students have to say about Emmaus?
Check out their stories:
"Emmaus has provided me with a community that I could have fun with and rely on, especially when I really needed it. I was fully introduced to Emmaus in my Sophomore year at UM. There was some drama in my friend group at the time and the whole group disbanded, and so I was left without a community I really belonged to and felt safe with. A few weeks before spring break that year, I saw a flyer advertising for Emmaus' Service Trip to Vancouver, BC for Spring Break, and I signed up. I was really anxious at first because I was the only nonresident going on the trip and everyone would know one another while I would know no one. But, luckily, those concerns were quickly put to rest. Everyone welcomed me, and I never once felt left out, which meant a lot to me especially given my circumstances, plus I was already struggling with school as I was talking 7 classes, 18 credits. Additionally, growing up, I was often bullied and excluded from groups because I didn't quite "fit in" with the rest, all of which added to my anxiety for the trip. But despite how everyone was already close to each other and had no obligation to interact with me beyond what was required for the trip, they all welcomed me and made me feel included. After that, I joined that summer up until graduation my senior year as a resident, and as the Emmaus Treasurer as well. In addition, the summer before my senior year and throughout my senior year, I was an intern for Emmaus.
Now that I have graduated, I will remember these moments with the community and the experiences I learned as the treasurer and an intern. I gained some real nonprofit and grant writing experience with the nonprofit side of Emmaus, and I greatly appreciate it as I plan to go into grant writing in the future. Furthermore, I chose Emmaus as the nonprofit I wanted to focus on with one of my nonprofit classes this school year, and that teacher then nominated and awarded me for the nonprofit administration minor student of the year. But beyond just the practical things I will take away, I will truly cherish the memories and connections I have made thanks to Emmaus."
- Lilianna
“Emmaus has been a great community that has guided me with spiritual growth. Being surrounded by compassionate and curious people has deepened my connection to the Missoula community."
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- Kobe
“I am so thankful for my time at Emmaus. This community has welcomed me with open arms and has shown me so much love, care, and friendship. The space felt so empowering and it felt so wonderful to connect to such kind humans. I have learned so much through rich dialogue on community, church, and Christianity, sharing meals in great company, and living in a collaborative living space. Moving to Montana from Ohio two years ago, Emmaus immediately felt like home.”
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- Faith
“Emmaus has been a wonderful community and I am so grateful for everyone involved who has made my time at UM so special."
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- Gannon
“I have loved living at Emmaus. I moved over in one of the most tumultuous times for my personal life, and I was met with the warmest, most welcoming and joyous communities. I always was included on fun adventures and heartfelt conversations and this has been a wonderful place of healing and light."
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- Daria