The National Evangelization Teams select fewer than 100 young adults from all over the world to lead nine teams on retreats and community service across the country. Since 1981, NET teams have lead over 22,000 retreats and ministered to 1.6 million youths. NET Ministries also has full-time programs in Australia, Canada, Ireland and Uganda, and has sent mission teams to numerous countries throughout the world. NET’s mission is to “Challenge young Catholics to love Christ and embrace the life of the Church.”

Lopez, who graduated from UST with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, currently works in the Office of Residence Life. She will depart in August for NET Ministries headquarters in West St. Paul, Minn. She will undergo five weeks of training before she begins the nationwide mission with 10 other dedicated volunteers in a 12-passenger van.

Lopez  says that her strong Catholic upbringing and her time at UST have both contributed to her desire to serve.

“I was greatly blessed during my four years at St. Thomas,” Lopez said. “My psychology classes were great – they really prepared me for graduate school and my future career. However, it was my theology and philosophy classes that led to my decision to apply to NET. At St. Thomas, I learned how to share my faith in an intellectual way. NET will give me the opportunity to share my faith and the chance to practice what I’ve learned.”

All team members are required to raise $4,000 to support their work as missionaries. Lopez admits that the the amount can be daunting, but knows she is up for the challenge. She is planning various fundraising activities to try and reach her goal.

NET is still accepting applications for 2010-2011 Team Members. Learn more at www.netusa.org.

Lopez may be contacted at lopezaa@stthom.edu