Michael Morrisey is the executive director of the Catholic Education Foundation. You can reach him at (913) 647-0383 or send an email to him at: mmorrisey@archkck.org.
by Michael Morrisey
In my previous articles, I have used the past to help us understand the future. My style is to make comparisons to highlight the important and flavor my words with humor. If you have not read my articles, you need to, so I can lead the world in readership!
During this time of year, we are thankful for many things in our lives. We are encouraged to make sacrifices, where possible, to help the less fortunate. Why are these months any different than the rest of the year?
We all know the stories of St. John the Baptist, St. Joan of Arc and St. Peter. Most of you know the Christmas song, “Good King (Saint) Wenceslaus,” but do you know his story?
Per Pope Benedict: “Saint Wenceslaus was benevolent to the poor, clothed the naked and gave food to the hungry. He loved all people, whether rich or poor. He died as a martyr for Christ.”
St. Wenceslaus is one we all should emulate. All of these saints made sacrifices to help others!
Talking about stories, do you know the stories of Maria, Kristen, Randolph and Angelina?
Maria is a single mother of five who works three jobs to keep her children in Catholic schools.
Kristen is the mother of four whose ex-husband is an alcoholic and was abusive to the children. She left him and took on night work at the school in an effort to make sure her kids receive a Catholic education.
Randolph is the dad of a specialneeds son, in addition to two beautiful daughters. The medical costs to take care of his son are astronomical. He and his wife are now working four jobs between them to take care of their financial responsibilities and make sure their children are raised Catholic.
And last, but not least, Angelina is a single mother of two who is physically challenged. She works two low-paying jobs, night and day, so she can pay her bills and, most importantly, keep her children in a Catholic school.
Each of these four families, living in our archdiocese, has established Catholic education as a priority for their children! They are making unbelievable sacrifices to ensure this happens. They understand that a Catholic school education can be the springboard to higher education, the best way to break the cycle of poverty. They are individuals we all should emulate!
During this Christmas season, I encourage each of us to consider partnering with the Catholic Education Foundation by providing a scholarship for a child in need. It is one of the best gifts you can give during this holy season.
For more information, visit the Web site at: www.cefls.org.
Merry Christmas to all!
P.S. Just kidding on the readership thing!
