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View photos from Cardinal McCarrick's visit by clicking here For the first time in Red Cloud Indian School’s 120-year history, a Cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church came to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation to learn about the important work being done everyday in the classrooms, parishes and The Heritage Center. Cardinal Theodore Edgar McCarrick, the Archbishop Emeritus of Washington, DC, met with students and administrators on Friday, April 3. “We are so honored to have had Cardinal McCarrick visit Red Cloud,” says Fr. Peter Klink SJ, president of the school. “In meeting with our students and faculty, it was a unique opportunity to share the stories of our success—and the challenges that continue ahead—with someone who has worked across the continent for the betterment of our world and people’s lives. This was a valuable experience for all of us.” During his visit, Cardinal McCarrick visited with members of the Red Cloud High School Student Council, sharing a meal with the students while discussing issues important to Lakota youth: poverty, healthcare, law enforcement and community issues. The students also talked to Cardinal McCarrick about their plans after high school. “I’m going to college,” said Charles Eagle Bull, the senior class president. “I want to finish college, and then return to the reservation with a degree so that I can be a part of the positive change that people need. I also want the younger generations of students to know that they can do anything they want to.” As Cardinal McCarrick listened to the students share their stories one-by-one, he told them how impressed he was with the interests they have and the efforts they’re engaged in to better themselves and the community. “You all have many gifts to give to society and to the world,” he said. “Share them, please.” During his visit, Red Cloud administrators gave Cardinal McCarrick a tour of the campus, including the high school and Holy Rosary Church. He also had a chance to learn about the various programs the school system offers, including the institution’s growing Lakota language program. “The language program that you are creating is a gift to the world,” Cardinal McCarrick said. “Language is so important to life and to the unity of people worldwide. When we understand one another better, we can care about one another more easily and at a deeper level. Language is a privileged window to cultural understanding. Certainly, this is a special program that will not only aid students in their lives, but also enrich the world’s understanding of the Lakota people. This will help you for the rest of your lives.” Cardinal McCarrick’s visit ended with a special Lakota honoring, as he was wrapped in a Lakota Star Quilt—a Lakota tradition—in gratitude for his visit. “I can really feel the sense of family here,” he said. “I am in awe of the work being done by all of you, as well as what is being accomplished. I truly want to thank you and let you know of my prayers and support for all of you.” Join us in our mission of educating the mind and spirit of the Lakota people, now and for future generations. Please consider an online gift. |
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Leader in Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Theodore Edgar McCarrick, visits with students at Red Cloud Indian School