The efforts at the hospice are just one area of community service the students at St. Joseph/St. John's Academy in Rensselaer participate in, said Sister Kathleen Pritty, principal. They also volunteer at St. John's/ St. Ann's Soup Kitchen in Albany and CONSERNS-U, a community based network assisting individuals and families in need in Rensselaer County.
The volunteer service reinforces what the students learn in the classroom about the corporal works of mercy, she said, and "makes it real for them."
The efforts also help students see that money isn't needed to make a difference in the world, she added. It's a lesson in stewardship for the youngsters, who see that time and talent are just as important as treasure.
Service work also helps the students recognize themselves as getting older. "It helps them see themselves as growing up," she explained. "It's an adult responsibility."
Anne Vadney, a parent, is pleased with the service opportunities provided to her son, Stephen. "It helps them identify their gifts and nurture these gifts," she said. "It helps them to give back. The more experiences they have like this, the more they will show compassion." (MM)