Discover the Difference: St. Pius X students serve the community during Lent
by Diocese of Des Moines | April 17, 2024
This past Lent, a group of determined middle school students at St. Pius X Catholic School made a significant impact on their community by teaming up with the Urbandale Community Action Network (UCAN) and a St. Pius X parish group to coordinate a food pantry. Led by Alex Baranosky, school administrator, and inspired by their faith-driven commitment to almsgiving, fasting and prayer during Lent, these young changemakers collaborated to help combat food insecurity in Urbandale.
"As a product of Catholic education, my strongest faith-filled memories are those rooted in service to others," said Baranosky. "When Fr. Matthew shared that the food pantry would be set up in the parish basement, I knew I wanted to involve students."
Every Friday throughout Lent, the students came together to unload, set up and distribute food, sacrificing their lunch and recess time to make a difference in the lives of others. Their actions serve as a powerful reminder that no act of kindness is too small, and that even the youngest among us can make a meaningful impact on the world around them. In the end, the program's reach extended to over 30 families each week, providing vital support to those in need.
Beyond the distribution of food, what truly set this endeavor apart is the spirit of camaraderie shared between the student volunteers. After distributing food items, students would gather to share a meal followed by prayer, reflecting on the significance of their service and the blessings they've received. For many of these students, their involvement in the food pantry initiative is deeply rooted in their personal faith journey and the teachings of their Catholic education at St. Pius X.
The student-led food pantry at St. Pius X Catholic School is a testament to the transformative power of faith, community and the boundless potential of young hearts dedicated to making a difference. As these middle school students continue to serve with love, they inspire us all to do likewise, reminding us that together, we can create a brighter, more compassionate future for all.
St. Pius X Catholic School, founded in 1956, serves students in preschool through eighth grade. Building on the foundation of Catholic values, St. Pius X Catholic School provides students the opportunity for spiritual growth, the development of moral character, and academic success.
The Diocese of Des Moines includes 16 schools in central and southwest Iowa. Catholic schools in the Des Moines Diocese build Christ-centered, collaborative, inclusive partnerships with parents, students, and parishes to provide students with innovative academic excellence and inspirational faith formation. To learn more about Catholic schools in the Diocese of Des Moines, visit dmdiocese.org/grow or email grow@dmdiocese.org.