Miss Kaitlyn Cartone contacted our office to see if Fr. Charles, Chaplain for the Deaf Community, could visit St. Francis de Sales and talk about his vocation journey. Fr. Charles arrived in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati on the feast day of St. Francis de Sales, patron saint for the Deaf, so of course he said “yes!”
Fr. Charles and I visited a few classrooms by request of the principal, Mrs. Sarah Bitzer. Our first stop was in first grade. The students were very welcoming and enjoyed showing off their knowledge of the ASL alphabet. Fr. Charles talked about the Deaf Community then shared a few important signs with the class as part of a mini-lesson on Jesus and love. He stopped by fifth grade and showed the class how to sign the Divine Mercy Chaplet and talked about his vocation and desire to serve the Deaf. He encouraged the class to learn ASL so they too can communicate with our deaf brothers and sisters.
His final stop was in 7th grade where his primary focus was on his vocation as a priest. He talked about his time away from his family starting at the age of 10 and how he discerned to become a priest. His journey was like many, and he stressed to the young men to always be open to where the Lord is calling.
It was a blessed day at St. Francis de Sales. Thank you for inviting us!
If your school or parish would like to schedule a visit and learn more about the Deaf Community, please contact Lisa Averion, [email protected]
