This year the Messmer Catholic Schools faculty and staff took part in community service projects as a unique twist to the annual retreat. Groups with members from all the MCS schools went to different sites across the city to learn what each organization does to make a difference.
The day was spent helping those organizations fulfill their missions by taking part in projects such as cleaning, food preparation, painting, organizing office space, spending time with the elderly, and assembling hygiene packages for the homeless.
Messmer High Math teacher Mr. William Gunderson was part of the group that went to an elder care facility. He thought the experience was enlightening and loved listening to the residents talk about their past lives and careers.
Mr. Gunderson said, "Since I am always with students, it was great to spend time with members of another generation and hear their perspectives. It was also nice to bond with Messmer employees from other schools; this gave us a chance to get to know each other."
The retreat included a reflection component and allowed the faculty and staff to transfer Messmer's mission beyond the school grounds. It was organized by Messmer Campus Ministry and the Theology Department including Mr. Chad Griesel, Ms. JoAnne Hauser-Carter, Ms. Abby Vogt, and Ms. Chris Nienhaus.
Some of the organizations visited that day were: The Hunger Task Force, Catholic Charities, St. Ben's Meal Program, La Causa, New Threads of Hope, Milwaukee Center for Independence, House of Peace, and The Pregnancy Help Center of Milwaukee.
The retreat was very well received, with many faculty and staff members commenting about how meaningful the experience was. Next year's retreat will be something to look forward to by all!
