This story originally appeared in the June 2020 issue of FAITH Grand Rapids magazine.
Priests distribute spiritual care packages
Fathers Jegar Fickel and Michael Burt of St. Mary-St. Paul Parish in Big Rapids distributed spiritual care packages to 50 families of students of St. Mary Catholic School during the pandemic. Each contained holy water, a rosary, a blessed candle, a spiritual communion prayer card and information on how to view Masses online. Extra care packages were offered to parishioners.
“During the first weeks of the quarantine, it was placed on my heart the need to concretely make contact with parishioners,” said Father Jegar, parochial vicar of the parish. “The idea of a spiritual care package came to mind. Providentially, the very next day I was contacted by a friend of a parishioner who wanted to donate over 50 handmade rosaries. I took it as a sign, and the rest is history."
Catholic schools in the Diocese of Grand Rapids are an alliance of 31 vibrant learning communities (26 elementary and five high schools) serving more than 6,340 preschool through 12th grade students throughout West Michigan. Our schools inspire young people to grow in Catholic faith and grace, achieve more in school and life, develop creativity and character, and feel welcomed and cherished for their unique gifts. We partner with parents to awaken the whole child to a world of light and life — that grows better and brighter when children reach their potential.