The recent natural disasters in Texas, Florida, Mexico and the
Caribbean have dominated the news lately and one question has been repeatedly
asked — what can be done to help? People have been generously donating much-needed
water, food and funds to assist those in need.
Students and staff at Paul VI Catholic High School in Fairfax
have been sending another essential element to those suffering — prayer. Every
day, just after the final bell rings, groups of students gather to pray for
those in need around the world.
PVI Prays started as a few rosaries in the school’s courtyard and
turned into daily gatherings of students who come together with their teachers
and peers and pray for those who are facing adversity, especially those dealing
with the aftermath of the recent hurricanes and earthquakes.
These prayer sessions stemmed from a desire of the student body
to help those who desperately need it. Christina Zaso, James Dunbar, Thomas
Kyte, Sarah D’Esopo and several other students who served on the 2017 PVI
Bánica Mission Team were searching for ways to help those experiencing hardship
in their own community and in the world at large. After meeting with the
leaders of campus ministry and teachers, the daily afternoon prayer session was
born.
Senior Erin McLaughlin was moved by seeing her peers come
together to pray for those who need aid. “Given the circumstances of our world
today, it’s really humbling to see people at PVI come out to pray,” said
McLaughlin. “I think it speaks volumes of the generosity and compassion of the
student body as a whole.”
Joyce Krolicki, campus ministry coordinator, said the prayer
sessions, usually held in the school’s chapel, can range from two or three to more
than 20 students, but the reverence and energy never wane. “Students are
finding a great deal of comfort and a place to connect and trust in God’s
goodness,” said Krolicki.
Paul VI students annually coordinate a huge canned food drive and
attend mission trips in the United States and the Caribbean. Now, every school
day at 3 p.m., they gather in groups and recite the Divine Mercy Chaplet to
ease the world’s suffering. PVI Prays is
one more example of the impact high schoolers can have in their communities and
the world at large.
“This idea was solely the students,” said Krolicki. “It is always
powerful to hear their heartfelt and bold prayers.”