VillaVoice_Summer_2020 FINAL | Page 13

HIGHLIGHTS & HAPPENINGS Junior High students created an inspirational video for the Villa community. services. Students were tasked with finding a positive and uplifting Scripture verse that resonated with them and then creating a drawing reflective of the words. The verses and pictures were compiled and put to music, creating a video that was sent out to the entire Villa community. Junior High religion teacher, Andrea Moeder stated, “I think the students, as well as those who viewed the video, benefited from reading such hopeful words during a difficult time.” The sixth grade Girl Scout Troop is working toward obtaining the Marian Medal. One of the highest honors given to Catholic Girl Scouts, this award spans the course of two school years and is given after an extensive study of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the completion of a community service project. Their effort began in the fall by learning about the life of Mary through Bible study, completing Marian crafts and activities, and organizing and executing a community service project. The scouts volunteered at Sweet Cheeks Diaper Bank, a local non-profit that provides free diaper to low income families. The girls will attend a retreat this fall, complete remaining requirements, and attend a celebration Mass where they will be presented with the Marian Award in spring of 2021. Although this school year brought unexpected changes and challenges, service to others and devotion through prayer remain an important part of St. Ursula Villa’s commitment to Christian service. As St. Angela Merici reminds us, “With the help of God, you will do much good for others.” Girls Scouts performed a community service project at Sweet Cheeks Diaper Bank. St. Ursula Villa is unique as the only Ursuline elementary school in Cincinnati and holds as its core values the following Characteristics of an Ursuline Education: The Christ-centered spirit of St. Angela Merici is a guiding factor in the school The recognition of the dignity and gifts of all students An emphasis on the development of the whole person Academic excellence in all subjects Commitment to Christian service An emphasis on diversity within the school Personal care for the individual A spirit of optimism and openness A strong family spirit within the school A Message About Our Larger Ursuline Community The St. Ursula Villa community holds our worldwide Ursuline family in our prayers, especially the Ursuline Sisters and members of the Company of St. Angela in Northern Italy, an area devasted by the COVID-19 virus. Sr. Margie Ekfeman, OSU, shares, “The Ursulines thank you for your ongoing prayers for the members of the Company in Italy and other members of the Ursuline family around the world. Communities and groups experience losses and adjust to this new reality while they serve in important ministries – including providing health care to COVID-19 patients – in service of the Gospel. Your continued prayers are deeply appreciated. Our Cincinnati Ursuline sisters hold you in prayer too.” 12