Apr 17, 2008 4:55 pm US/Eastern
Students Watch Papal Mass From School
BALTIMORE (WJZ) ―
Children at Baltimore's School of the Cathedral watched the Pope's Mass from their classrooms Thursday.
Suzanne Collins reports students have been doing acts of charity since January in honor of Pope Benedict and as a gift to him.
Two fifth grade classes crowded in together to watch the papal Mass on TV at the School of the Cathedral. There is a sense among the children that this is a most holy event.
"I think it's great the Pope wants to spread his message all through the world. I think it's great he is visiting us," said Owen Melia.
Teachers say they've discussed the historical significance of the visit in class, and they learn more by watching.
"We were just discussing in class about different languages and different ethnic groups represented. [It's] all part of what we feel is important in our school, as well as our faith," said teacher Carol White.
In the homily, Pope Benedict mentioned the challenge is a secular and materialistic society. In honor of that message, the children gave the Pope a non-materialistic birthday gift.
"We gave him a card. We have all together 181 acts of charity just in our class," said Edina Hiser.
The principal says that charity has also been a gift for the children. The students made casseroles for "Our Daily Bread" and brought peanut butter, sugar and other supplies.
"We also collected rice bowls that went as far as Africa to our sisters in the missions," said Sister Josephann Wagoner.
"I learned a lot about how much we can help and make a difference. Like $1 can make a huge difference in someone's life," said student Michael Healy.
Many of these students had a relative who attended the Mass in Washington, D.C. They were hoping to catch a glimpse of them on TV. They also heard them get up very early in the morning and creep out of the house.
"Well, my brother is actually over there with our parish youth group, and he had to get up really early. I know he's having a good time," said Healy.
In all, the students logged 2,280 hours of charity in honor of the Pope's visit.
The children are also regularly praying for safe travel for the Pope on his visit to the U.S.
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