Nuns and Snow Cones

During a recent heatwave at San Diego State University, our Monday Evening Prayer became an opportunity to offer the community a little extra care. Alongside our time of prayer, reflection, and connection, we served snow cones to students, attendees, and passers-by, offering a welcome moment of cool refreshment amid the intense heat. What began as a simple gesture of hospitality became a meaningful expression of our campus ministry’s commitment to meeting people where they are, creating space for connection, and sharing God’s love in practical, tangible ways.

Nuns visiting the Roman Catholic campus ministry happened to walk by and beautifully captured the spirit of the evening when they remarked. “Way to meet the moment.” They happily accepted the snow cone then walked to dinner . Their words affirmed something at the heart of our ministry: sometimes, living out our faith means recognizing what our community needs right now and responding with creativity, compassion, and joy. By offering both physical and spiritual refreshment, we embodied a ministry that welcomes everyone, nurtures the spirit, and makes God’s love visible in everyday encounters. Even something as simple as a snow cone can become a powerful reminder that we are called to care for the whole person and to be a refreshing, affirming presence in the life of our SDSU community.

A little later, while serving other students, Mario exclaimed,

"Nuns and snow cones?! We should’ve snapped a photo!"