Opening Up

Our first night out, we met Bear. He kept his distance, sitting way atop these pictured steps near St. Bernard's. As the weeks passed, Bear became more and more willing to talk to us. Last week, we met up with him along the rails where he rested. He was quite happy to see us. Last night, Bear opened up more than ever, revealing his real name:

"Bear talked to us today and told us his real name!! When I introduced myself, he told us his name was Ralph and shook our hands."
--Grace Kaucic, scribe for 10-28-09

It's truly amazing when we build these relationships and see them evolve. Our friends expect us to show each Wednesday and rely on us for spiritual support.

Maurice

Driving down Main Street by Canal Park, we spotted a couple of people we know. We stopped to serve them. Before we knew it, dozens stopped by for clothing and food—the hot dogs proved to be a popular item. One of our new friends was Maurice. He made it a point to address the group, “Your spirit is carried with every person you help. You guys have already helped more people than you know. Your spirit is probably with a million people already and you don’t even know.” His words touched the students, and we stayed awhile in order to talk more to our new friends.
The picture shows our time in the Chapel before departure.

HOPE

The Hoban students take an active role in participating in our community to assist the people who are homeless. Beginning with the preparation of the food (peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, pizza, tomato soup, chips, cookies and whatever else is donated), the students then congregate in Hoban's chapel for prayer and focus. Then it's into the van for the trip downtown. Students take an active role in treating each person with dignity and respect, bringing with them a positive message of hope.

Following each night's work, the group reflects on what they saw and who they met. Led by the scribe, who dictates the night, each student listens intently to the story.