What is Manus Christi?

Manus Christi is Latin for "Hands of Christ." Manus Christi is an active reflection of St. Teresa's words, mixing vibrant prayer, engaging catechesis and formation, and significant service with and to those in need. This week-long service and mission experience offered by the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston gives entering 9-12 graders the opportunity to encounter Christ in those in need while learning about and living the concepts of personal dignity, the common good, solidarity, and subsidiarity.*

*Personhood, common good, solidarity, and subsidiarity are the four central principles of Catholic Social Teaching -- YOUCAT p. 181

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What makes Manus Christi Unique?

Adventure
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In addition to engaging prayer experiences, service opportunities, and fun evenings, we will use the amenities of the summer camp at Bishop Hodges Pastoral Center (BHPC) like the pool with 90’ water slide for relaxation and the climbing tower and giant swing for teaching the truths of Catholic social thought. And that is just the beginning of the adventure.

Incredible staff involvement

As the Manus Christi staff, we believe that youth ministers, chaperones, and teens should have the opportunity to focus on those they're serving and on each other. We make sure to handle all the details, including sending a staff member to every worksite who knows the job and knows the family, allowing you to just enjoy being the hands of Christ.

lodging
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The BHPC is home to the Manus Christi. The Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston has turned this upscale pastoral center with hotel-style rooms into a center for youth evangelization at the service of those in need. From every room having its own bathroom to the dining room’s breathtaking views to the beautiful art on the walls, this is an ideal setting to encounter Christ.

Depth of Relationship

The Catholic Church has been ministering to the people in the Tygart Valley for over 70 years through the agricultural ministry of the Salesians and the hospitality of those who live and work with the BHPC. We partner with Catholic Charities and Habitat for Humanity to serve our neighbors, and we are in this for the long haul.