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Third Grade Girls Raise
Money for Oceans of Mercy
Mark A. Altman, Principal
I had the pleasure of attending a dinner
fundraiser put on by Sacred Heart School's Third Grade girls
this past Sunday evening. The candle light and quiet atmosphere
was a welcome relief from what had been a hectic weekend for
my wife and me. Our own personal waitress took care of us
with a maturity far beyond her years while her classmates
took turns providing background music on the piano. As guests
slowly arrived we were able to enjoy some relaxed conversation
and read the information at our table that explained the purpose
of this event, "Children Helping Children" by raising funds
for Oceans of Mercy,
an organization dedicated to helping those left orphan
by the AIDS epidemic in Africa. As the last guest was seated
we were shown a video which educated us on the inconceivable
effects of this disease, and the mood of my evening was drastically
changed.
I was vaguely aware of the AIDS problem
in other parts of the world, but had no idea of the devastation
it is causing. A whole generation has been literally wiped
out by this disease. Thirteen million children have been left
orphaned and many of those were born with HIV. The statistics
are horrific, but the visual image of toddlers and infants
covered with the sores of AIDS brought tears to my eyes and
a lump to my throat. I couldn't help but feel a bit of shame
first for not knowing that these conditions exist in other
parts of the world, and secondly, for not always being thankful
of the many blessings my family and I enjoy every day.
I would like to thank the Third Grade girls for making me aware of this situation,
for their hard work in preparing the meal and rehearsing the entertainment. But most of all
I thank them for providing me with a wonderful example of how we can be Christ's love for
others and for making me mindful of how blessed my family and I are to be a part of the
Sacred Heart community where we are surrounded by people who provide His example everyday.
As we look forward to another Thanksgiving holiday, I hope that everyone will take the time
to truly give thanks for the many blessings we enjoy here in the United States and to realize
that with those many blessings come many responsibilities.
If you would like more information about
how you can help with the Oceans
of Mercy project you can contact Schaun
and Becky Colin, of Lenexa at 913-888-2218. The project
aims to provide homes for abandoned babies and AIDS orphans,
a school, a health clinic, and a community center for education..
Thomas and Lori
Clouse, a young couple from Shawnee, will be leaving for
Africa soon to do missionary work and would greatly appreciate
not only your monetary support but your prayers as well.
May God continue to bless you and your family,
Mark
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