In the wake of Hurricane Helene our communities have experienced tremendous loss but have shown incredible resilience. “This past week, we have been blessed to witness countless acts of love, sacrifice, and compassion,” stated Ross Bubolz, President of St. Petersburg Catholic High School. “The tremendous loss of homes and property has been a deeply traumatic experience for many of our families. Yet, those who were spared have risen to the occasion, offering their support in countless acts of Christian service. It has been profoundly inspiring to witness."  

This storm was not only traumatic for adults, but also for children. In addition to being displaced from their homes because of rising flood waters and unsafe conditions, many children have also been displaced from their communities, parishes, and schools including children from one of our Catholic schools and one early childhood center.  

St. John Vianney Catholic Church and School on St. Pete Beach was deeply affected by the storm surge brought on by Hurricane Helene. Elevated levels of flooding have left the campus buildings unusable for an indefinite period. In response to this devastation, the diocesan Office of Catholic Schools and Centers, parishes, and Catholic school leaders came together to explore options for temporarily relocating the St. John Vianney students and faculty.  

When faced with adversity, the true spirit of a community shines through. Chris Pastura, Superintendent of Catholic Schools and Centers, was amazed by the outpouring of support. 

“Before we could even ask, we had offers of assistance from other Catholic schools, our fellow dioceses in Florida and across the country, and even the National Catholic Educational Association,” he said. “We are blessed to have so many people praying for and helping us. That’s the power of our Catholic faith in action.”  

Beginning Monday, October 7, Pre-K through Grade 5 students will be housed at the Cathedral School of St. Jude the Apostle, while middle school students in Grades 6-8 will be accommodated at St. Petersburg Catholic High School and the Pastoral Center located next to the high school. The generosity of the school communities and Pastoral Center staff will allow the children of St. John Vianney Catholic School to learn with their own teachers in these temporary locations.  

In addition, other Catholic schools in the area stepped up, providing the necessary technology, furniture, and curricular materials to continue. 

Despite the challenges of relocating students, all are dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and prayerful environment for the students, faculty, and families of St. John Vianney Catholic Church and School, many of whom are also grappling with personal loss. 

"Supporting St. John Vianney Catholic School during this challenging time offers us another meaningful opportunity to live out the Gospel. This past week, we have truly embodied our motto, ‘Fortes In Unitate’ (Strength in Unity), in every sense,” shared Bubolz. 

Inspired by this example, let us continue to support one another and spread kindness throughout our community. 

For more information about Catholic parishes and schools displaced by Hurricane Helene, and to find resources for assistance, please visit www.dosp.org/stormupdates.  

For those able to financially assist, please donate to our Diocesan Disaster Relief Fund to allow the Diocese to direct funds to support and supplement all affected communities directly, www.givecentral.org/dospdisasterrelief.