Article by Grace Swanson, Saint Clement 8th Grader

High School Musical Junior was performed by Saint Clement School on April 11 and 12. It was a success! Many middle school students starred in the leading roles and the whole cast was amazing and always smiling. The musical started with rehearsals in January. There were practices three times a week. All of the students put all of their effort into the play. There were also many kids on crew and who painted the set. The directors were the music teacher, Ms. Anna Bax, and the drama teacher, Ms. Alexis Randolph.

The musical is based off high school students in different cliques. One student, Troy Bolton, is a basketball player and the most popular guy in school. He meets Gabriella Montez, a brainiac, over winter break. Gabriella then transfers to Troy's school. Both have trouble adjusting after they have discovered their newfound passion to sing, especially with thespian stars Ryan and Sharpay being jealous of their talent. Troy and Gabriella's friends at first are mad at them for trying something new but then realize that Troy and Gabriella should follow their dreams. The musical was amazing and every person in the audience couldn't stop clapping.  

As part of our ongoing engagement process, we have come to realize the importance of parishioners sharing their personal stories of how they have connected with Saint Clement as an important factor in their lives. As a feature twice a month, we share the stories and reflections of our engaged parishioners who are living a stewardship life of prayer, service, and giving. This week we hear from Luana Linehart: 

"In 2006, after a tumultuous time in my life, I began the daunting task of church shopping. On Holy Thursday, I entered and sat down, unsure of what to expect. I was welcomed with such love that I never left. I wept with joy at the Easter Vigil as the Candidates and Elect became fully initiated Catholics. It was a new beginning for me as well, for I had finally found my home. Saint Clement became my anchor. With God's help, I made peace with my past, and my life changed. 

I've always had a deep love for Scripture; so, serving as a lector was a natural fit. I still get nervous every time I approach the ambo, but Scripture should be proclaimed by those who truly love it. Judging by the impressive team of lectors in our community, I think it's clear that God's Word is greatly loved and honored here. In 2010, I married my husband under our dome. Two years ago, Christina Bax asked me to join the RCIA Leadership Team, and that's one of the great joys in my life. It's such a privilege to walk with the Candidates and Elect as they follow Christ into the Church. I've learned so much from them, and we are blessed by their presence. I still weep for joy at every Easter Vigil as the Body of Christ grows before our eyes under the Tree of Life.

I see stewardship as the giving of one's time, talent, and treasure to ensure the parish continues to be Christ's love in the world, and I'm happy to contribute to the Sunday Giving Commitment and the general collection through ParishPay. I'm a social worker so my donation is modest, but I don't think that it matters. If we give as we are able, I trust that it's enough, and God will handle the rest admirably. This parish has given me more than I can ever express or repay, and I'm honored to serve with such remarkable people. We are a beautiful church."