 |
|
| Fr. Tom Coyle, pastor of St. Francis of Assisi in Jefferson, blesses Kena Eighmy, a fifth grade student at St. John the Baptist School in Jefferson, battling leukemia. (Contributed photo) |
JEFFERSON — Inspired by the Year of Mercy declared by Pope Francis, Margarete Schels’ eighth grade class at St. John the Baptist (SJB) Catholic School organized a “Basketball FUNday” in honor of Kena Eighmy, a fifth grade student battling leukemia.
Extended care teacher Katie Warpinski, whose own husband, Josh, is fighting cancer, suggested that the students do something for Kena.
With the guidance of their teacher and school principal, Susan Loof, they planned the all-morning event that offered a variety of activities.
The “FUNday” brought together the St. Francis of Assisi Parish and St. John the Baptist School communities.
It included student basketball games, face painting, pictures and messages for Kena, concessions, T-shirt sales, raffle prizes, a “Chuck-a-Duck” contest, and performances by the SJB student band and pom squad.
There was also a special prayer of blessing for Kena, led by Pastor Fr. Tom Coyle.
At the end of the event, Kena shared her heartfelt thanks for everyone who has offered prayers and love for her and her family.
The eighth graders concluded their “Mission of Mercy” by expressing their gratitude to all who supported them in their efforts to be the “hands and feet of Christ” for a member of their school family.
The students hope their class service project will inspire others to perform works of mercy for those in need.