Fr. Steve’s updates

Sunday, March 7, 2010

We had a smaller than usual crowd in church today.

Each of the homes has enough recreation money budgeted to take an occasional trip to one of the bigger cities in South Dakota like Sioux Falls or Rapid City. The children and houseparents attend church somewhere along the way and take part in fun, educational activities.

With a hint of spring in the air, a few homes took advantage of the improved weather and hit the road.

One of the homes still had some gift cards they got for Christmas, and the girls were looking forward to shopping for clothes and toys.

I spent the afternoon with Robert, the student I’m matched with as a mentor.

First, we went to the gym to cheer on our 7th and 8th grade girls who were playing in the championship weekend of our inter-city basketball league. About half the girls involved are St. Joseph’s students; the other half of the girls are from Chamberlain. It’s good seeing them play together while building trust and friendships.

Then, we went to Chamberlain’s bowling alley to join with others in the mentor program for a couple of hours on the lanes. At such gatherings there’s a lot more cheering on than competing. There’s little pressure and just a good time to be had by all. Maybe when I have the surgery I will see if the doctor can adjust my hook so I get more strikes instead of my usual 8 or 9 on the first ball!

On the weekends, I don’t have to get up as early as on school days. With the chance to sleep longer, my energy level has improved.

I’ve made it through the last couple of days without needing any naps. I have a few minor side effects from the medications, but for now, I’m feeling closer to normal. I start back up with treatments in about a week.

Author: St. Joseph's Indian School

At St. Joseph's Indian School, our privately-funded programs for Lakota (Sioux) children in need have evolved over 90 years of family partnership, experience and education. Because of generous friends who share tax-deductible donations, Native American youth receive a safe, stable home life; individual counseling and guidance; carefully planned curriculum based on Lakota culture and individual student needs and tools to help build confidence, boost self-esteem and improve cultural awareness. All of this helps children to live a bright, productive, possibility-filled future.

6 thoughts on “Fr. Steve’s updates”

  1. JESUS MARY JOSEPH 8 March 2010
    Dear Father Steve —
    My wife, Kathleen (Katie), and I continue to pray for you, for your complete recovery or that the Eternal Will of God be done — whichever, “the mileage or the time comes first.” (Ha!) // Quietly in the depth of your heart-mind I know you continue to pray for our (KatieJohn’s) healing and reuniting in our marriage. It’s been fully two years now since Katie left (abandoned) me and it’s been hell. I DON’T ask your TIME in prayer — only that the deep INTENTION TO BLESS be there always. I Love Katie as my wife forever .. and God tells me that Love is stronger than death. // Please have A BEAUTIFUL AND JOYOUS DAY, YOU WONDERFUL PRIEST OF GOD! John (and Katie)

  2. No Naps! That is quite an accomplishment. This week will pass to quickly with more treatments coming up. Be assured of our continued prayerful support. I really like your doing this blog. Maybe after your better you will continue as a way to communicate with your supporters.
    Be strong today and enjoy the spring weather coming our way. God bless, Joe and Sandy

  3. Father Steve, We will pray for your return to full good health. May the smiles of the children and families that you help be a source of strength through your challenging time. God Bless You. Sincerely, Julie & Victor

  4. Comment – many organizations request donations and I have given to many. But recently I realized that a good deal of the donation is spent on giving the donor stickers, address labels, calendars and other items. I have had only one organization that asks for donation without doing the above. When I realized this, I decided no donations to any organization that would spend any of it in such a way. I
    think your organization is a very good one but feel the donations are NOT being used in a proper way. Maybe someday you will change that and I will free to donate.

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