Scholastics at the Oblate School of Theology (OST) in San Antonio, Texas are taught by professors with extensive knowledge of Christianity. But the students are also taught by people with a wealth of “street smarts” – the homeless people of SanAntonio.

OST recently partnered with Haven for Hope, a non-profit organization that provides comprehensive services to the homeless population of San Antonio. Students from OST are providing spiritual guidance to Haven for Hope clients at the organization’s new center that opened in April.

Brother Jesse Esqueda, O.M.I., an Oblate scholastic studying at OST, is one of the first participants in the new partnership program. He said the program provides him an opportunity to take what he learns in the
classroom and apply it to the real world.

“I feel blessed to be part of the Haven for Hope family because I am certain that the experience will help expand my view and understanding of homelessness, and it will challenge me to grow as a human being and
as a Christian,” said Bro. Jesse.

Brother Jesse is involved in direct ministry with the homeless at Haven for Hope. This includes meeting with clients at intake, in the chapel and in the cafeteria.

Haven for Hope is more than a shelter. It works to help the homeless become self-sufficient individuals on a long-term basis. Haven for Hope seeks to transform lives by addressing the root causes of homelessness through education, job training and behavioral health services.