On September 21st, the Saint John School community participated in the annual Saint Vincent De Paul Walk.  It was a day of charity and connection, where everyone gathered together as a community to walk and pray in solidarity for the poor. The walk was held at the parish campus with periodic stopping points along the way. At each stop, participants took out a saint card and said a special prayer in their honor. Eventually, participants congregated at Mary’s grotto behind the church to pray the rosary. This was a particularly meaningful moment, where everyone took a moment to reflect and acknowledge how blessed we are by God to be able to stand together, especially for those less fortunate. 

Saint Vincent De Paul inspires us as a community to think of others. Throughout his life, he served the poor, gave up everything he owned for others, and lived the life that God called for. In honor of his extraordinary service, the student-led “Minnie Vinnies” were also on site, selling bracelets to support the cause. In total, they raised over 200 dollars this year. Participants were also joined by Father Kibaki, Mrs. Burke, and Mrs. Roberts. Our middle school math teacher, Mrs. Smith, was also in attendance. Mrs. Smith has been attending the walk for over 2o years. “I like to show support for the less fortunate because I feel that I have been blessed in my own life by many opportunities and gifts. It is also important to support the Mini Vinnies, which is the young adult version of Saint Vincent De Paul. Showing support for our middle students is a way of reaching out and connecting with them.” Saint John School principal, Mrs. Burke, shared Mrs. Smith’s sentiments. “Although I have not been coming as long as Mrs. Smith, I have been walking for the last two years. I believe it is very important to show support for the poor and for our school students who help host this event.” 

As Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Burke, and all of this year’s participants demonstrated, it is important to embrace our connection to others and to work together to uplift those in need. Saint Vincent De Paul is an inspiration to us all, and the community was honored to walk in support of his legacy of faith and service.

-8th Grade Journalism