Page 16 - The Paduan Spring 2022

Campus Ministry NEWS Tradition of Franciscan Service Continues
Service is a hallmark of the Franciscan identity. From the moment of St. Francis of Assisi’s conversion, he embraced the lepers and cared for them. Francis discovered that as he served them, his heart was filled with joy. As the Peace Prayer of St. Francis says, “It is in giving that we receive.” This mutual relationship of service is infused in Padua’s service program. In the past months, Campus Ministry has emphasized this mindset with service opportunities.
Students served the St. Peter Chanel Foundation’s annual Christmas Party for children with cerebral palsy. Padua volunteers accompanied the children and their families throughout the day. They participated in numerous activities including face painting, cookie decorating, balloon-making, dancing, and of course visiting Santa Claus. The newly-formed friendships between children and Padua students brought smiles to all faces.
St. Herman’s House of Hospitality
During the fall, Padua students regularly served meals to homeless guests of St. Herman’s House of Hospitality. The relationship with the staff and their guests has been very fruitful. Padua students also volunteered with the Cleveland Food Bank to distribute food to the hungry in the Muni Lot.
Sophomore Retreat focused on Service
In October, the Sophomore Retreat focused on service. Students prepared meals for homeless guests at St. Herman’s House of Hospitality and provided clean facilities for the Cleveland Catholic Worker drop-in center. In addition, Bruins painted fire hydrants in Parma and cleaned Edgewater Park beach.
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