Office of Catholic Schools and Centers at 6363 9th Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33743 US - Homeless Perception
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Homeless Perception |
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DAY OF DISCIPLESHIP & SERVICE FOR THE 8TH GRADE STUDENTS OF ST. CECELIA SCHOOL
Friday, September 25th turned out to be a steaming hot day, but a grace-filled one for the 8th grade students of St. Cecelia Interparochial School, who gathered in the school Chapel to be blessed and sent out with an open heart to love and serve the Lord.
Armed with an extra lunch to share with a homeless person, and cartons containing flashlights, umbrellas, socks and backpacks, the 8th graders, teachers and chaperons headed for PINELLAS HOPE, a project of Catholic Charities, in partnership with the interfaith community, local government, businesses and other non-profit agencies. Pinellas Hope is a transitional project under the auspices of Bishop Robert Lynch and the Diocese of St. Petersburg, whose mission it is to alleviate and hopefully eliminate homelessness. After touring the facility, packing a shelved trailer with foodstuff, sorting & boxing shoes, Ms. Angelia Mosley, (Facility Manager), gave an eye-opening talk on the plight of the homeless, and the resources with which they are provided to lift their spirits, restore their self confidence and regain their independent living.
Students left Pinellas Hope with much to think and pray about, as they moved on to the final sessions with Mary Russell (Director of Faith Formation), and Brandon Horn (Director of Youth) at St. Cecelia Church. In evaluating their experience, students were asked several questions, including: Did you see or experience the presence of Jesus at Pinellas Hope? Almost all of the students answered in the affirmative, stating that they saw Jesus in the volunteers who gave their time freely, and were happy to do it. With maturity and further reflection, hopefully everyone will also see Jesus Himself in the poor and homeless. To the question - What did you gain from your experience at Pinellas Hope? The majority said that they had gained a better understanding of the plight of the homeless; and the fact that it is not always their fault. Our students were also appreciative of what they personally have such as family, friends and all that they own; and the need to share, help and bring hope to those in need.
Mrs. Cho
Campus Ministry
