We serve and teach, we receive and learn.
During another year of uncertainty, challenges and obstacles, St. Joseph’s Indian School is proud to say we can look back on 2021 and know it didn’t break us. While schools across the country closed or implemented a completely e-learning structure, St. Joseph’s opened our doors safely and securely to Lakota (Sioux) children. With added safety … Continue reading “2021: A Year in Review at St. Joseph’s Indian School”
The following is a personal reflection by LaRayne, the Native American Studies teacher at St. Joseph’s Indian School. The smell of čhaŋlí pȟaȟtá — tobacco offerings — made my heart feel many emotions as I quietly tied the prayers of the St. Joseph’s Indian School students, staff and donors together for the All Souls Day … Continue reading “St. Joseph’s Indian School Remembers Loved Ones on All Souls Day”
Mimicking the movement of the birds circling above Wisdom Circle on October 4, students and staff at St. Joseph’s Indian School did the same below on the dewy morning grass. At the center of the circle stood Fr. Greg Schill, St. Joseph’s Chaplain. He announced the purpose of the gathering was to celebrate the Feast … Continue reading “Animal Blessing: Blessing the Four-Legged Who Bless St. Joseph’s”
To the Lakota, a šúŋkawakȟán — horse — is a relative. A four-legged friend and companion that provided transportation, friendship and pride. The horse is revered for its grace and bravery. Today, many Lakota people still look to the horse to provide healing from trauma, anxiety, and mental and emotional distress, among others.
People’s physical scars are often easily spotted. The visible wounds catch your eye, as if yelling to be noticed. But what about the hidden scars people – especially children – carry with them inside? What about the hurt within their hearts and minds? Those are more difficult to see … which makes them easier to … Continue reading “Celebrating ‘Mental Health Awareness Month’ by Fighting for a Future of Change”
Watch this time lapse video for a look at how the new mural was created! Bringing beauty to overlooked places is the driving force behind Br. Mickey McGrath’s paintbrush. In fact, he quotes Pope Francis, “An artist is an apostle of beauty, who helps others to live.”
A young Lakota girl takes her hand and gently brushes the brown fur of her new friend, who she’s named Charlotte. For a moment, no words are spoken between the pair, but there seems to be a connection – a quiet understanding – between them.
Greetings from St. Joseph’s Indian School. Things were a bit hectic here Monday as students began returning from Christmas Break. Due to the recent snow storms and cold snap in the upper Midwest, we are still missing a few students who have been unable to return. We hope all students will be here by Sunday,
I just Love St. Joseph’s in the spring time. The campus is blooming both figuratively and literally! We can finally go outside without freezing (the younger ones don’t mind the cold, but us older ones sure do!) My, this year has flown by, there is still so much I want to do with my students. … Continue reading “Caring, Nurturing, Teaching at St. Joseph’s Indian School”
Good afternoon! My name is April and I greet you with a warm and hearty handshake. I work with our Lakota families at St. Joseph’s, along with many other roles. I would like to take this opportunity to share with you about why I am at St. Joseph’s Indian School. I guess I can start … Continue reading “April’s journey to St. Joseph’s Indian School”