Unprecedented times call for unprecedented action – and the Designated Ministries of the CSAF are stepping up!
Catholic Schools throughout the Archdiocese are finding new and creative ways to nourish students mind, body and soul.
- Blessed Trinity Catholic School in Richfield compiled for families a comprehensive list of resources ranging from locations for free meals and grocery items and access to free internet and wi-fi hotspots to contacts for mental health professionals, unemployment insurance, and other statewide services. Similarly, Risen Christ School in Minneapolis arranged a drive-through service in the school parking lot where families could pick up groceries and needed school supplies for home, including donated laptops.
- St. Alphonsus Catholic School in Brooklyn Center created a video of teachers singing to students to uplift their spirits. Providence Academy in Plymouth plans to live-stream daily Mass and Noon prayer to nurture students spiritually, as well as announcements and the Pledge of Allegiance to help maintain a sense of routine for students during distance learning. In addition, video sessions will allow student-teacher interaction and virtual classroom discussions.
As families seek to strengthen the Faith amidst the temporary suspension of public Mass, parish religious education classes, youth group activities and more, the Office of Marriage and Family Life, and Youth Ministry have offered an abundance of online resources to parents and youth suddenly home-bound. Says Bill Dill, Youth Ministry Events Coordinator, in an article in the Catholic Spirit, “It makes a huge difference in kids’ faith when they…grow together in their faith with mom and dad.”
Catholic Charities, like some other front-line organizations, has heightened cleaning regimens and increased the use of hand sanitizer, personal protective gear and thermometers to its sites as it continues to help feed, clothe and shelter an increasing number of people in need.
These are just a few examples of the many ways the Designated Ministries of the CSAF are rising to the challenges presented during this time and adapting to continue to provide services.
To join in support for the vital outreach of the Designated Ministries of the CSAF, visit GiveCSAF.org. Thank you for your generosity!
