Fr. Steve’s updates

Saturday, May 15, 2010

This evening, six of our high school students celebrated the sacrament of confirmation at St. James church here in Chamberlain. They joined with the confirmandi from two nearby parishes.

All the students are classmates at Chamberlain High School, so there was already a familiarity and comfort with one another. Jesse, from our program, was asked to stand up and thank the bishop on behalf of the class. I enjoyed catching up with all the family members present at the dinner afterward.

Their choice of sponsors was an interesting mix. One picked someone from home, but the others chose St. Joseph’s personnel as someone they look up to as an example of faithful witness. One counselor sponsored two sisters. A houseparent and the college prep coordinator were also involved.

Just last year, one of our other high school students, Erin, finished her own preparation and was baptized and fully initiated. One of her classmates asked Erin to be her sponsor.

I’m glad when students can see the faith of their peers. We all prayed the Holy Spirit be strong with these young people throughout their life journey.

I saw the bishop for the first time since my diagnosis. He offered his prayers and support and got the latest update. Lots of parishioners also came up and offered support and kind words. My name is listed on many church bulletins, prayer groups and mass intentions, not just here in the area, but far and wide.

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. View all posts by St. Joseph's Indian School