Messengers of Hope Gala a Success
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April 19, 2023Redemptorist missionaries in Baton Rouge joined friends and faculty on April 2 for the second annual “Messengers of Hope Gala,” a fundraising event for Redemptorist St. Gerard (RSG) Elementary School. Chef John Folse generously hosts this annual event to support our mission of educating the youth at White Oak Estate and Gardens in Baton Rouge.
As pastor of St. Gerard Majella Church, I started the event with a message of hope, love, and encouragement leading to our Mission Statement and how we are striving to fulfill it: Redemptorist St. Gerard School provides Catholic formation in which students enhance spirituality, pursue academic excellence, and create a caring community as they develop their God-given potential. We were honored by the appearance of two St. Gerard Alumni: Jim Chenevert (’66) as a keynote speaker, and a distinguished alumnus, Eddie Rispone (’67).
We were inspired by how their lives were shaped by faith, compassion and the love and education they received at RSG, and how they have shaped the lives of their children, grandchildren, and many others over the years.
We are very grateful to all the 248 gala attendees this year. We felt blessed and happy to meet and greet all of our faithful sponsors and new friends!
Currently, 221 students are enrolled at RSG. With the support of our faithful sponsors – who contributed more than $102,000 this year – our goal next year will be 250 students with a 100% graduation rate! We truly hope that all the attendees will share the “Messengers of Hope” message as the Redemptorists strive for the next six years.
