Living away from home is a minor inconvenience. My wife’s parents and her sister and husband have allowed us to live and work in their homes and try to make the being away as normal as possible. I’ve been impressed by how they have MADE SPACE for us…moving things, clearing shelves, closet space, refrigerator and pantry space to make us feel at home. That can’t be too easy or too convenient for them.

And of course, I watch Megan to see how this move affects her. She’d be starting in a new school, and as a 7th grader, that could be difficult.

Marlene and I feel so blessed that we have been able to get Meg in at St. Pius Elementary…this school community has been awesome in their response. The principal is one of my heroes in ministry from ways back, Ms. Lemaire. She is a true leader, minister and innovator. She is fearless and welcomed this chance to respond. She is joined by educators who seemed genuinely eager to respond…who have gone out of their way to welcome us and make us feel as much a REAL part of their community. The parents have come forward with everything from help with apartment and house hunting, spare uniforms, clothing for other family members, etc.

People can talk about things that are wrong with Catholic education or about the politics of the church. I know I witness(ed) a lot of what is good about Church and Catholic education in the spirit of Christian hospitality and welcome Megan and our family has received there.

To the pastor, Msgr. Mouton, the parents, the staff, Ms. Lemaire, our friends, Susan and Steve (who double as personal bus service for Meg), please know of our gratitude to you for being open to receiving us and the many others who wanted our children to continue Catholic education. You have given us a great lesson in what it means to “do this for the least of my people”.