Name: Jacob Kraft
Age: 20
Hometown: Floyds Knobs, IN
College: Marian University
Major: Nursing

How did you first get involved in the “One Bread, One Cup” program?

I first came to “One Bread, One Cup” as a youth participant in the summer of 2007. I was very hesitant to come at first, because it was the first year for my parish to participate and all I knew was that I would be living at a monastery while participating in a liturgical leadership conference.

It didn’t sound like a very exciting way to spend five days of my precious summer. However, I cannot be more grateful now for saying “yes” to my youth minister when she asked me to come. My first summer was truly a life-changing experience and brought my faith to the center of my life.

What involvement, if any, do you have now?

This (Summer 2012) is my second year as a college intern. I am currently the Male Conference RA (resident assistant) intern.

Describe a memorable experience from “One Bread, One Cup.”

One of my favorite memories of “One Bread, One Cup” is my first Reconciliation service as a youth participant. Never in my life had I been a part of something so beautiful. It was the closest I had ever felt to Christ and it is a moment I will never forget.

What influence, if any, has “One Bread, One Cup” had on your life?

“One Bread, One Cup” has made my life what it is today. There is no way that I would be anywhere near the person I am today without having had my experiences with “One Bread, One Cup.” It has taught me that my faith and relationship with God should be at the center of my life, and the rest of my relationships and activities should stem from that.

What aspect of the “One Bread, One Cup” program has been most rewarding?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of “One Bread, One Cup” has been the relationships that have come forth from it – not only those that started on the Hill during the program, but also those that I have been able to create back at home because of the lessons I have learned here. I have been able to more openly share my true self with others, which has allowed me to experience Christ in others more vividly.

What aspect of the “One Bread, One Cup” program has been most challenging?

The most challenging aspect of “One Bread, One Cup” has been to continually strive for a deeper relationship with God and a better understanding of His presence in my life. It can be easy to settle with where I am now and not work to grow more, but the internship has definitely given me the push that I need to keep working at growing closer with Him.

What would you tell a high school or college student who is considering participating in the “One Bread, One Cup” program?

Do it! There is no way to put this experience into words. You just have to experience it yourself with an open heart and mind. A liturgical leadership conference may not sound like much fun, but I promise “One Bread, One Cup” is so much more than that.

It is a life-giving program that is full of the love that only comes from God. It continues to change my life for the better every day and I am so blessed to have the opportunity to be a part of it. If you have the opportunity, then you should definitely give it a shot. You won’t be disappointed.

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