Letter to Educators

Letter to Parents

(Note: This is a sample letter that can be adapted by school/parish/institutional leaders to inform parents and others about the “Birthday Blessings” project.)

February 25, 2008

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Greetings to you. I am writing to announce a project to honor Pope Benedict XVI when he visits the United States April 15-20, 2008.Our (school/parish/institution) will participate in “Birthday Blessings for Pope Benedict XVI: A gift of public service from U.S. Catholic youth and students.”

To recognize this special event – and the U.S. visit in general – the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) is launching a campaign seeking service hours in honor of the Holy Father’s birthday. Students in schools, religious education programs, colleges and seminaries from all over the country are being asked to complete or pledge (for completion by May 31, 2008) community service time in the name of the pope.

Activities could include efforts in which students are already involved, or those that reflect the mission of the church to serve others. We invite your child to participate by keeping track of service hours, and to dedicate the time and effort in honor of the pope. Talking with your child and encouraging service hours will help strengthen your child’s spiritual growth and reinforce the values of our faith. One way to keep the service commitment in the heart and mind of your child is to pray with your child for the pope by asking God to bless the pope with strength and wisdom.

I will be collecting information on service hours for our (school/parish/institution). Please complete the form below and return it by (deadline).

Without a doubt, community service is a hallmark of Catholic schools, colleges, seminaries and religious education programs. In dedicating this service to the Holy Father, Catholic young people will demonstrate their love for the pope and for their brothers and sisters in Christ.

Thank you in advance for your support for this project.

Sincerely,

(Name of Administrator)
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Student’s Name:

Number of service hours:
Briefly describe the service projects: