At the conclusion of Mass, Social Studies Teacher and Fathers’ Network moderator Bill Brandstrader ’88 and Adriana Kelly of Catholic Charities spoke about the coordinating efforts at Loyola Academy as well as the needs of those benefiting from this valuable organization.

Following Mass, families assembled in the West Gym to pack Blessing Bags with food items, toiletries, socks, a blanket, hat and poncho blessed by Fr. McGrath.  Catholic Charities will distribute these Blessing Bags to families who are struggling with homelessness throughout the Chicagoland area.  Loyola Academy’s mission to “form women and men for meaningful lives of leadership and service in imitation of Jesus Christ” was undeniably delivered through the annual Family Mass and Day of Service.

Not only are we so thankful to the parents and students of Loyola Academy for their gift of time, we are also grateful to our dedicated event chair, Jen Gilroy.  Thank you also to Larry and Carrie Nicholson for providing transportation of the Blessing Bags to Catholic Charities Garfield Park facility.  Finally, special thanks to Bill Brandstrader’88 of Fathers’ Network, Special Events Coordinators Joan Schniedwind and Liam Kirwan, and Director of Special Events Sophie Streeter.