Since last time I wrote many there have been a number of changes. Jordan Zoroufy is now back in Wisconsin. We are so thankful to him for the dedication he gave to the Casa community both in Peru and the United States. Taking his place is Sarah Sceery, who came to Casa on a mission trip several years ago. Having worked for a number of years in development in the Boston area she comes to us with great energy and expertise. Everyone who meets her has told me that they are very excited to work with her and find her to be the ideal person to carry on all that Jordan has been helping to do.
In May, there was a very important step forward in the canonization process of Father Joe Walijewski. Bishop Callahan celebrated a special Mass at the Cathedral where we officially sent to Rome the transcripts of 40 interviews of people who knew Father Joe the best. These were individuals from Wisconsin, Michigan and other parts of the United States as well as Bolivia and Peru. Now, the Congregation for the Causes of the Saints in Rome will begin the next stage studying the documents that summarize his rich life. One component of this phase is the documentation of two miracles. For us at Casa, we believe that we have already witnessed several distinct answers to prayers and this motivates us even more to continue to pray asking for Father Joe’s intercession for the challenging situations of people that are part of our mission. Hopefully soon we will call him “Blessed”.
At Casa, we recently welcomed two new couples from Venezuela this spring as family teachers to take part in our mission. Luis, Yuliana and their son Aron share a few words about their transition on the reverse of this letter. It is through the work of Luis, Yuliana and all those who support our mission back at home that we are raising the next generation of mothers and fathers, developing young minds and providing hope.
This time last year, thanks to the support of so many generous benefactors like you, we were able to purchase an oven and now bake our own bread at Casa Hogar. Not only does this supply our everyday breakfast, it allows our children to develop technical skills that can lead to a sustainable career in the future. Two graduates have moved on to culinary school and several are considering becoming bakers!
As we look ahead to the future of Casa, our home is need of upgrades and repairs. The foundation built and started by Fr. Joe Walijewski back in 1986 still stands strong today, although it requires a great deal of upkeep to maintain a safe, healthy and clean lifestyle for our children. In order to provide these resources to develop faith, family and future for all children, we rely on your support and ask you to consider Casa Hogar in your own missionary spirit.
Thank you so much for all you have done and continue to do to help give hope to our children at Casa. Only with much faith in God’s providence and in close collaboration with you can we do this work which the Lord began with Father Joe Walijewski and now entrusts to us all.
Wishing you and your family a warm and blessed summer.
In Christ, Msgr. Joseph Hirsch