‘A Pattern of Hope’ luncheon celebrates Catholic education

Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, with Event MC Melanie Lawson, Keynote Speaker Kathryn Whitaker, and Superintendent of Catholic Schools Debra Haney at the Pattern of Hope Luncheon. (Photo courtesy of the Catholic Schools Office)

HOUSTON — The network of Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese celebrated the inaugural, in-person “A Pattern of Hope Luncheon” March 22 at the Junior League of Houston, benefiting Catholic schools.

What began as a stormy and blustery morning turned into a glorious day for the event and the legacy of Catholic education in the Archdiocese.

The event, attended by educators, friends of Catholic schools, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, Archbishop Emeritus Joseph A. Fiorenza, Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, and community members, provided a glimpse into the lives of the many Catholic school communities via a video showcasing innovative programs and curriculum pieces present in Catholic grade schools.

Proceeds raised from the event support tuition assistance and technology resources for students in Catholic grade schools.

Keynote speaker, Kathryn Whitaker, author of “Live Big, Love Bigger: Getting Real with BBQ, Sweet Tea and a Whole Lotta Jesus,” shared her family’s journey through Catholic schools and the relevance of the education and sense of connection they offer families in a world that can challenge values and character.

Assistant Superintendent Cathy Stephen said, “The gratitude that Kathryn Whitaker shared with us at ‘Pattern of Hope’ was certainly a touching tribute to the trust that can be built between teacher and student so that shouldering both personal issues and the world’s problems can be practiced by children in the safe and loving environment of a Catholic school.”

When asked why “A Pattern of Hope” was important to her, Whitaker said, “Anytime I am asked to help promote Catholic education, it is always a resounding ‘Yes!’ I have seen, first-hand, the fruits of a Catholic education in laying the groundwork for a faith you return to when life gets hard. What a joy it is to see our six children continue to lay such a solid foundation.”

Whitaker’s book is available for purchase at most major book retailers. To learn more about “A Pattern of Hope” and view the event video, visit: www.ChooseCatholicSchools.org/Hope. †