Growing up and then
living as a Catholic has most certainly had its challenges. It also had its
blessings. St. Charles Borromeo was one
such blessing.
The church and school were built in 1939. By 1954 the parish had grown to 1200 families and 852 students. It was the largest parish and one of the largest schools in the state. As such, a separate building to house the church was built and dedicated in 1959.
The convent, housing the Sisters
of St. Joseph of Carondelet, who educated St. Charles Kids for 32 years, was
updated and expanded in 1952. A rectory
was finally built in 1961.
It was during this period of expansion and construction (1954 – 1962) that I was educated by
the good sisters.
The sisters along with Father Doran, Father Flarety and Father
Peterson provided guidance and values that have had a lasting
positive impact. As imperfect an era
as it was, there is one reality that should NEVER be
forgotten - they committed their lives to others. Their personal desires never made
it to the top of the priority list.
I only experienced
love and devotion from these extraordinary individuals.
