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The Love of Christ
Compels Us

We exist to share the Gospel with inner-city teenagers by equipping young adults to serve as Catholic missionaries

A Mission of Love

When Bob and Kate Lesnefsky took their first positions in youth ministry at a parish in Schenectady, NY, they were surprised to find an inner-city community. They were even more surprised at how much fulfillment they found in bringing the Gospel to those on the margins. After four years in New York, Bob took what he believed at the time was the “dream” youth ministry job at a wealthy parish in Texas, but it only took a few months for him and Kate to realize that God was calling them back to the inner city.

Teens in the inner-city face a cycle of neglect, violence and broken family life. This destructive environment has dire consequences for them and society. Vagabond Missions intervenes during this time of crisis by inviting them into a relationship with God and others. Through outreach and mentorship, teens experience hope for their lives and a place to call home. When teens tangibly experience Jesus, lives are transformed.

Grow with Us

8+

Cities

4000+

Teens Served

150+

Teens Became Catholic

9

Cities

5000+

Teens Served

200+

Teens Became Catholic

Grow with Us

We currently serve in 14 missions across nine cities: four sites in Pittsburgh, PA, three sites in Wichita, KS, Steubenville, OH, Greenville, NC, Mobile, AL, Oklahoma City, OK, Indianapolis, IN, Philadelphia, PA & Baton Rouge, LA.

HELP US GROW

Meeting People Where They Are

What Happens At The Underground?

Breakout

A night filled with fellowship while introducing the teens to the Underground and the Gospel.

Worship

A night that dives deeper into the Gospel and allows for more discussion between missionaries and teens.

Jesus Class

This is our version of RCIA, designed specifically for our teens to understand our faith and apply it to their lives.

Retreats

A life changing week or weekend that facilitates personal encounters with Christ.

Breakout

A night filled with fellowship while introducing the teens to the Underground and the Gospel.

Worship

A night that dives deeper into the Gospel and allows for more discussion between missionaries and teens.

Jesus Class

This is our version of RCIA, designed specifically for our teens to understand our faith and apply it to their lives.

Retreats

A life changing week or weekend that facilitates personal encounters with Christ.

WATCH VIDEO

Become a Missionary

Meet Real Needs with the Love of Jesus

  • Dedicated leadership training and development
  • Staff Retreats and community building
  • Experience sacramental life together
  • Dive into mission with your team
APPLY TODAY

– Brian McCarthy – Donor

"The Church must continue to find ways to share the Gospel with people outside the walls of the Church. The missionaries of Vagabond Missions do this beautifully, and my family is blessed to be a partner in this mission."

– Joni – community supporter

" Vagabond Missions is a ministry that has a great impact on our community, on the most basic and important levels: our under-served and forgotten youth."