VOL. XIII, NO. 4
May 2008
Associates help rebuild Gulf Coast after hurricane By Carol Alvey, OSUA
S
aints Joseph and Paul Church, Owensboro, sent its second group of 10 volunteers to Pass Christian, Miss., March 1-7, and I have been lucky enough to be a part of this on both occasions. Last year, we worked on two homes where much work had already been done, but this time was an entirely different matter. When we drove up to the 125-year-old house that had been in an unimproved state for 2 1/2 years, the only thoughts that came to mind were “hopeless” and “this should have been condemned.” Ursuline Associate Carol Alvey But by the end of the first workday, those thoughts repairs a porch during her March Ursuline Associate Penny Burns nails trip to the Gulf Coast of Mississippi began to change. I think faith became hope and hope boards to frame a house in Biloxi, with a group from Sts. Joseph and became reality, all of which were driven by love and Miss. SEE STORY ON PAGE 3. Paul Church, Owensboro. determination. As a person with no building experience, I can say without a doubt that EVERYONE can contribute something to rebuilding the Gulf Coast. It’s important to be part of a team and to have someone with experience to give direction. However, whether it is doing the actual building or carrying items so that those constructing can avoid wasting time getting supplies, everyone’s job is valuable to the finished product. At this particular work site, I was able to use a crowbar to help remove the old wood siding. After that, I may not have been able to actually hammer on the new siding, but I could relay the measurements for the cutting and bring the materials to the team members who were on the ladders. I then helped make sure the boards were level before the nails went in. In other words, in my own way, I helped make a difference! I think it’s impossible to make one trip to that devastated area and not want to return. In fact, before the end of this trip, talk turned to what we would do the next time we came. When that happens, I know I will be part of the team! n
V
Celebrating 25 Years of Associates and Sisters! Associates and Sisters Day 2008 Saturday, July 19
• Opening Prayer by Sister Marietta Wethington and Sister Fran Wilhelm • Keynote Presentation by Sister Cheryl Clemons: “Scrapbooks, Lighthouses, and Spaceships: Angela Merici as the Foundation and the Promise of Holiness and Service for Today’s World”
• Lunch in the Motherhouse Dining Room • The Ursuline Associate Story:
Recognition of Former Directors • Jubilee Year Presentation • Action Steps for the Future Liturgy and Commitment Ceremony with Fr. Tony Shonis, Presider