Over the last few weeks, the schools of the Prince Gallitzin Quadrant have collected nearly $5,000 to assist the Ukrainian Refugees in Poland. The schools of the Quadrant include Bishop Carroll Catholic High School, All Saints Catholic School, Holy Name School, Saint Benedict School, Saint Michael School, and Saint Nicholas Catholic School.
The funds were raised through a combination of a t-shirt sale, dress down days at the schools, and individual donations. Each school found their own unique ways to support the cause, with all schools united in prayer.
The money will be sent to the Eparchy of Saint Josaphat of the Ukrainian Catholic Church to assist the Ukrainian refugee efforts in Poland. Th efforts of the schools are particularly meaningful to Bishop Carroll religion teacher Father Andriy Kelt, a Ukrainian Catholic priest who is also the pastor of the Protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church in Revloc and Saint Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church in Northern Cambria. He commented, “In the past 6 weeks we have seen truly heartbreaking images of pure evil, when Russia invaded a peace-loving country of Ukraine. It is one of hardest things to watch especially the little children and women losing their lives, their homes, their whole way of life. While we have seen what evil humanity is capable of, we have also seen what good humanity is capable of. The neighboring countries like Poland, Romania, and others extended their arms to welcome Ukrainians into their homes, helping them, providing food and shelter. But that help does not stop there. People from around the world opened their generous hearts. It means so much to me to see the Bishop Carroll community help take care of the suffering Ukrainians. The fundraiser that we had will help countless families who are without home and food. May God bless you for your generosity and support for the people of Ukraine, as we continue to pray for peace and the end of this senseless war.”
The unity of the schools demonstrates the strength of the Quadrant. Mrs. Rhonda Seymour, principal at Saint Michael School in Loretto, added, “Our families realized the tragedy and the enormous amount of sadness all are facing in Ukraine and came together to raise funds to show our support. This small act of kindness is an example of coming together as the Prince Gallitzin Quadrant.” Bishop Carroll Dean of Students Jonathan Nagy commented, “I am so proud of the efforts of all involved, especially the students. The concern shown towards the Ukrainian people by these young people is truly inspiring. They truly care about the people, and they should stand as a model to others.”
For more information about all of the schools in the Prince Gallitzin Quadrant, please visit www.bishopcarroll.com.
PICTURES:
- Father Andriy Kelt and several BC students posing with a ceremonial check for the cause
- Students at BCCHS with their Ukraine shirts
- Students at All Saints with their Ukraine shirts
- Students at Saint Michael School with their Ukraine shirts