The Ministry & Life Enrichment for Persons with Special Abilities Program at Catholic Charities of Corpus Christi recently hosted the Fr. Walsh’s Annual Summer Camp and Fr. Walsh’s Children’s Vacation Bible School at St. John Paul II High School. This year’s theme was “SCUBA – Diving into Friendship with God.” Five lessons were explored over the camp’s duration, allowing campers to see God as a friend in many ways. (God is a Friend Who is Real; God is a Friend Who Loves; God is a Friend We Can Trust; God is a Friend Forever; and God is Everyone’s Friend). This year, 100 campers attended, with 23 take-home kits sent to campers who could not attend in person.
Fr. Walsh’s Annual Summer Camp, a special day camp for adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, was held June 5 and 6. This camp offers opportunities for spiritual growth, social interaction, and lots of fun. “It was a great experience for Marian Rose and me, being new co-directors for the ministry,” said Isabel Hernandez, Ministry & Life Enrichment for Persons with Special Abilities Program Co-Director. “I loved seeing all the smiles and joy on the campers’ faces as they rekindled their friendships, and witnessing all of the volunteers’ love and dedication was amazing.” Co-director Marian Rose Swetish said several campers told her they were having so much fun that they couldn’t wait until next year. Lively activities that corresponded with the lessons were held throughout the day, and as a special treat, each day ended with a bubble dance.
On Thursday, June 6, long-time Program Director Celia Mendez, who retired in December 2023, was recognized for her 35 years of service. Dr. Michele Johnston, Catholic Charities of Corpus Christi Executive Director, and Susan Taft, with Tejas Management Systems Inc., presented her with a gift and plaque. Volunteers and friends of Mrs. Mendez, Karol Light, Tim Mulinx, and Luis Salinas shared kind words and memories. Campers, who were overjoyed at seeing her again, surrounded her with hugs. Following the recognition ceremony, the annual Summer Camp Talent Show commenced with approximately 25 campers participating with a short piano recital, singing and dancing.
Fr. Walsh Children’s Vacation Bible School, for children ages 4 to 13 with special needs and their siblings, was held on June 7. Seventeen children attended and enjoyed learning about how to have a friendship with God. Even though the VBS was only one day, the children were immersed in the same unique experience as the adult campers, including a bubble dance at the end of the day.
Staff from Catholic Charities and numerous volunteers have been working diligently for several months preparing for this yearly event, and 33 volunteers assisted over the three days to give the campers an exceptional experience. Sponsors also provided food and support.
Thank you to the dedicated sponsors who helped make this happen: Catholic Charities of Corpus Christi; Diocese of Corpus Christi; The John G. & Marie Stella Kenedy Memorial Foundation; Tejas Management Systems Inc.; Czech-Mex Bakery; Knights of Columbus Council 11107; Order of the Alhambras Baza Caravan #78; Betty & Ed Rotter; Randy Balderas’ First Responders Charity Toy Bowl & LULAC Council # 1; Vallejo-Loza Family in Memory of Maria S. Villarreal; Karol Light in Memory of Kathryn McGee; Jaime Elizabeth; and Mr. & Mrs. Isabel Jr. Saenz.
The Ministry & Life Enrichment for Persons with Special Abilities Program is a program for adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, or blind and/or visually impaired. For more information, please call Isabel Hernandez or Marian Rose Swetish at (361) 884-0651.