As many of my friends know, last week the Diocese of Camden issued a decree that our school was closing. The reason was for "lack of funding" and "decreasing enrollment," but our school's bookkeeper and several independent audits show that these are patently false. The Diocese set for strict parameters for an appeal to be launched, and we followed these rules. Unfortunately, they decided to change things mid-way and after agreeing to a meeting have rescinded this opportunity. They have threatened the staff with removal if they attempt to give the children hope and behave in any way other than a manner the Diocese decides is consistent with shutting down the school in June.
The children are, in a word, devastated. They are trying to understand something for which we have no explanation to give. They are stunned that one person can decide the fate of so many without accepting the facts of the situation. They are despondent at losing their friends and the community that they are part of.
People are asking, "What can we do?" First, pray. Pray for the children, who need God's comfort more than ever. Pray for the teachers who have to carry on as if it was a normal school year. Pray for the parents, that they will be able to discern what the right thing is for their children. We are all hurting now. And pray that the Bishop's heart may open and that he will listen.
Second, show the Church how much these children need this school. I know many have issues with the Church hierarchy. Honestly, I do too. But for now, set it aside, and please, write a letter to the Apostolic Nuncio. He is the Papal representative to the United States, and has the power to declare that this be reopened. Write to him and tell him what this school means to the children, to their families, to the Church itself. Ask that he prayerfully consider what is being presented to him. These letters need to be sent the "old-fashioned" way -- on paper and via US Mail, Fed Ex, etc. If you can get to a post office and send it certified or return receipt, even better because it means it must be put directly in someone's hand and signed for. We are hopeful for him to receive about 250 letters by Wednesday, February 2. His mailing address is:
If you have a few pennies in your pocket to spare, donate. All monies are being held in a separate account, and will be returned if we are ultimately closed permanently. You can donate via a secure Paypal link at www.notre-dame-standing-strong.com.
I'm posting copies of the children's letters. I'm so proud of what they've written. Each is well thought, in his or her own words, with minimal revision beyond grammar and punctuation. (I know the scans are not the best quality, but I will revise this post when I figure out a better way to do them. If you click on the images, it should bring them up larger on your screen so they are full size and easier to read.) These are proof of the quality of education they are receiving.
When our beloved Dr. Alimenti had to break the news to the children, she told them it was OK to be sad, it was OK to be angry, and it was OK to hurt. We were all hurting. But with the next breath she reminded them who we are -- whether in the school, on the street, in a new high school because we've moved on, or in a new school because we have been moved. She reminded us that we always will be...
NOTRE DAME STANDING STRONG!!
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