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The Quality of Mercy |
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by Norma Vavolizza
Back in 1982, St. Margaret Mary School was scheduled to join the list of close-outs and lost dreams that had become daily life in the South Bronx. The Archdiocese of New York could no longer support the institution that had educated generations of immigrants and high achievers. But, as the saying goes, God had other plans.
His prime mover was Sr. Ann Veronica Bivona, RSM, newly installed principal and a woman who only deals in "yes, we can!" Working against all odds with a coalition of pastors and other nearby Catholic grammar schools also headed for extinction, Sr. Ann Veronica kept her school alive. Today, St. Margaret Mary opens every September with a waiting list and parents pleading for her to accept their child.
A values education
The story of St. Margaret Mary School is just one example why Catholic elementary education, particularly in poor neighborhoods, is thriving today: parents want their children in a safe, loving environment where learning takes place, and where the values of compassion, service, and prayer inhabit every classroom.
"Our kids today are dealing with so much," says Sr. Rita Marie Minogue, RSM, Principal of Good Shepherd Grammar School in Manhattan's Inwood. "Many come from single parent homes. Then there are parents struggling with two and three jobs so they can afford the tuition. That means children go home to caretakers, or they stay for our after school program and don't return home until 7:00 pm. That's a long day for a small child and you do worry."
But caring for society's most vulnerable is what Sisters of Mercy do. Those who have remained in education are totally passionate about their commitment. "I've stayed in this ministry because I love it," says Sr. Brian Marie Latour, RSM, Assistant Principal at St. John's Academy in Plattsburgh, NY. "I also believe that if we are going to pass on anything of value, it has to be through our children."
Sr. Sheila Kelly, RSM, Pre-K teacher at Sacred Heart School of the Arts in Mount Vernon, NY sees education as a way to touch the world. "I have worked in other ministries, but what amazes me about teaching," she says, "is that you not only impact the life of a child, but the child's family, parish, and neighborhood. Children are a prolific gift. I am happy to be in their presence."