Sister Thea Bowman Catholic School decided to step away from the traditional activities of Catholic Schools Week this year to participate in a program offered by the National Catholic Educational Association and Catholic Relief Services.

With prayer and story and song and information, representatives from diocesan parishes gathered at St. Barbara in Okawville to meet with the Catholic Relief Services Midwest Relationship Manager.

The road to the diaconate has proved to be a bit longer for one candidate, but ordination is just a few days away. Gary Mueller will be ordained a permanent deacon for the Diocese of Belleville Feb. 26 at St. Nicholas Church in O’Fallon, his home parish.