Fr. Steve’s updates

Today was our annual career day and Sobriety Walk. The hospital, bank and fire station were the most mentioned favorites.

Friday, April 30, 2010

Today was our annual career day and Sobriety Walk.

First, the students had fun exploring downtown businesses. The hospital, bank and fire station were the most mentioned favorites.

Heath Gourneau, an alumnus who has worked in substance abuse prevention, spoke to the students about his journey and encouraged them to remain drug and alcohol free.

He pointed out the Class of 1983 banner, which he helped design; today, the banner hangs proudly from our rec center rafters with other class banners created in the last 30+ years.

Students listen in a deeper way when they hear from someone who shares a common background with them. It’s important as we strive to help our students make good lifestyle choices.

The rains held off, and we walked in four directions around town and met up at the Dining Hall for supper.

I helped chaperone the youngest homes, and when we were walking around the campgrounds, second grader Devon found a penny on the ground.

I said, “Find a penny, pick it up and all day long you’ll have . . . what?”

“A penny,” Devon said.

I laughed, realizing Devon is much wiser than his years, and more accurate than the old saying!!

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.

4 thoughts on “Fr. Steve’s updates”

  1. Father Steve..You are JOY itself..! We had a good laugh over Devon..!
    You contribute so much to our lives..!
    We love reading your blogs..!
    Hugs to you..and please know that our Prayers and Love travel with you..
    Mia and Bob

  2. Dear Fr, Steve,

    I was just catching up on your newsletters because I have also been in the hospital and only recently got out.

    The story of Devon brought something to me that hasn’t appeared for sometime. A smile and a laugh. What a sweet child and such a cute response. He is indeed wise beyond his years.

    I was happy to hear you were back among your children again and doing things with them like before.

    I hope your cancer is going into remission.

    I had an operation on both of my legs which is going to take most of the rest of the year to heal. It is a slow and painful process but, with your newsletters and updates it takes my mind off the pain for a while. Thank you for that.

    God Bless you Fr. Steve and the children too. Our love and prayers are with you all.

    Sincerely,

    Nancy & Kenny Raymond

  3. I am so proud of St. Joe’s and of the Sobriety Walk…and of you Fr. Steve. Take care!

  4. HI Fr. Steve, I pray that your cancer is in remission and that God heals you. You do a wonderful job at St.Joesph’s Indian School. God Bless. Robin Mitchell

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