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AROUND OUR DIOCESE

4/26/2022

CATHOLIC EDUCATORS DINNER
Superintendent Dr. Erin Barisano and the Diocese of Orange Department of Catholic Schools honored their own during the Celebrating Catholic Educators Dinner on April 8 at the J.W. Marriott, Anaheim Resort.

The top recipients were Rosary Academy Head of School Dr. Shawna Pautsch and Principal Sean Basford Guest speakers were Meghan Clem and Katie Webb, founders of RAD (Rising Above Disabilities) Camp.

The dinner, which Bishop Kevin Vann and Bishop Thanh Thai Nguyen attended, also recognized the years of service for Catholic schools personnel. Among those recognized were Sr. Teresa Lynch for her astounding 40 years of service.

Congratulations to all for their contributions to Catholic education!

FOSTER FAMILY APPRECIATION MONTH
May is Foster Family Appreciation Month, and it is important to honor the families who do so much to help those in crisis in our community. There is no better way to love our neighbors and care for the most vulnerable children among us than by recognizing these faithful families in the work that they do.

Unfortunately, not all children experience the unconditional love, support and attention they deserve. In 2021, 1,105 kids entered the foster care system in Orange County, and at any given time, there are more than 2,400 children under Social Services. Seventy-five percent of the children coming into care are accompanied by a brother or sister. These numbers are staggering and are continuing to grow. We cannot combat this crisis without your help. If you feel God calling you to make a difference in your community, there are multiple ways you can get involved:
Commit to 40 Days of Prayer.
Attend an info session to learn how you can do more.
Fill out a pre-application online to become a Foster Family by May 1 and join others at Knott’s Berry Farm on Saturday, May 21 for a Foster Family Appreciation Breakfast and a day in the park.
Sign up and find more information at https://www.olivecrest.org/foster-parent-appreciation/

COMMUNITY OF FAITH CHORAL FEST
St. Nicholas Parish, Laguna Woods, will be hosting the Community of Faith Choral Fest on Sunday, May 22, at 1:30 p.m. inside the church, located at 24252 El Toro Road.

The parish began this event back in 2015 to celebrate the collective 50th anniversaries of six of our local congregations.

This 90-minute program will feature scripture and sacred music from all participating traditions. A fellowship reception will follow in the parish hall.

Admission is free. However, a freewill offering will be collected to benefit the humanitarian efforts in Ukraine, via Catholic Relief Services. All are invited. For more information, call 949-837-1090.

ST. NICHOLAS CATHOLIC CHURCH, LAGUNA WOODS. PHOTO COURTESY OF SPENCER GRANT/DIOCESE OF ORANGE

SAVE THE DATE!
A beloved tradition is fast approaching! The priests vs. seminarians basketball game is scheduled for June 17 at 7 p.m. at Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana. Stay tuned for more information.

GRAPHIC COURTESY OF THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE