Howdy! Let me tell you a bit about myself. I grew up on a farmstead with my aunt and uncle. My life was pretty unremarkable until I met a very wise old teacher who helped put me in touch with a great spiritual truth. And although I soon had to leave home indefinitely, I met two good friends from unlikely places. With their support, and with guidance and strength from the great truth I mentioned earlier, I made it through some very difficult times - seeing my old mentor die, incurring a painful arm injury, being hit by lighting multiple times - to finally find fulfillment, reconcile with my estranged father, and overthrow the Galactic Empire.

Okay, so maybe that was Luke Skywalker. But still, I’m told we look very much alike…

So for real this time: my name is Griffin Tyree. I am currently a third-year Human Biology major from Revelle with a minor in Chinese studies and a passion for theater, music, and creativity. Unlike Luke Skywalker, I was born and raised in the bustling, overcast city of San Francisco. Like Skywalker, though, I was put in touch with something important later in my life, something that granted it a direction and fullness that had previously been missing (I don’t care what George Lucas says, I call that something God). And just as Luke would never have become a Jedi were it not for Obi-wan, I would not be on the journey of faith I am now were it not for the incredibly caring and life-giving teachers, individuals, and communities that have helped me along the way. Case in point: ever since I found the Newman Center my freshman year, this community has provided me with support, love, and training in the ways of the Catholic.

Although I don’t have an evil empire to topple, I feel called to struggle with a world of stark contrasts and unfair inequalities in wealth, service, and dignity afforded to different people - many issues that, frankly, I’d rather ignore. And here’s where Social Justice ministry comes in: the call to serve is challenging, but we’re in it together. If you feel called to serve one another, or you want to use your talents to make the world a more loving and inclusive place (and have a great time growing in friendship with others while doing it!), check out the Social Justice committee.