Viatorians love to collaborate with one another, especially at their various parishes and schools. That was the case Thursday when students in the youth ministry group, Viator Youth, at St. Viator Catholic Community paid a visit to nearby Cristo Rey St. Viator in North Las Vegas.
Br. Carlos Florez, left, and Fr. Dan Belanger are ready to pass out donuts at CRSV.
The visit was timed during Catholic Schools’ Week and it was the second one this week. On Monday, Viator Youth members visited Bishop Gorman High School, connecting with St. Viator graduates at the school. It also occurred during the year when Viatorians are celebrating 70 years of ministry in the Las Vegas region.
At both schools, they came with donuts to hand out to students and staff, and while the treats sweetened the visits it was the chance to connect with Viatorians and young people from another Viatorian institution that underscored their meeting.
“Their visit was another way to emphasize the importance of our focus as Catholic and Viatorian,” said Br. Carlos Florez, CSV, who serves as Director of Catholic & Viatorian Identity at Cristo Rey St. Viator.
Bishop Gorman students enjoy their donuts.
The day was especially meaningful for Fr. Dan Belanger, CSV, in his first year as Parochial Vicar at St. Viator Parish. While he has immersed himself in parish and school activities, he was eager to visit Cristo Rey St. Viator and meet students there.
“It seemed particularly appropriate that during Catholic Schools Week, we as Viatorians were able to work together to connect with students at both schools through the Viatorian ministry,” Fr. Dan said..
Associate Rosy Hartz planned the events. She serves as Coordinator of Youth Faith Formation at St. Viator Parish and she works to involve teens in parish life and social justice ministries.
Associate Rosy Hartz with a CRSV student
“The visit allows us to promote our Viator Youth group and staying involved with the parish,” Rosy says, “but at the same time it’s a fun way to walk with teens in a small way.”
The visit also reaffirmed the Viatorian mission and identity with students, and just how much they enjoyed seeing associates from their parish. Snacking on donuts, with familiar adults from their parish, well, felt like home.
“It was all about Viatorian hospitality and being present,” Rosy says, “and living out the charism.”