Youth rally: High schoolers urged to 'Go against the grain'

	Participating in a workshop called "Keeping the faith while at college" are, from left, Joe Zola of St. Andrew Parish, Verona, and Season Wales and Christy Pullara, both of St. Joseph Parish, Madison. (Catholic Herald photo by Richard Schauf)

By Julianne Nornberg
CATHOLIC HERALD STAFF

WISCONSIN DELLS -- When high school sophomore Chris Yoakum of St. Peter Parish in Madison was asked what he learned at Resurrection 2003, a high school youth rally, "Going against the grain!" was his enthusiastic reply.

Indeed, that was the theme in terms of justice and service at this rally hosted Jan. 17-19 by parishes of the Eastern Dane region of the Diocese of Madison.

Yoakum was one of about 250 people attending the rally, which took place at Chula Vista Southwest Resort here.

Helping the homeless

As the youth breakfasted on the morning of Jan. 18, some of them noticed two apparently homeless people who came into the hotel and slept on couches and the floor.

During a morning prayer service, Fr. Felix Oehrlein, pastor of St. Cecilia Parish in Wisconsin Dells, asked the youth participants: "How many of you welcomed them in from the cold?"

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By Pat Casucci
CATHOLIC HERALD CORRESPONDENT

BELOIT -- Due to extensive vandalism and burglary, there were no classes held on the first day of Catholic Schools Week at Our Lady of the Assumption School here.

Beloit police were called to the building Monday morning, Jan. 27, when a break-in was discovered by school staff. Principal Arlene McMorran said the break-in occurred either Sunday evening, Jan. 26, or early Jan. 27.

Building vandalized

Vandalized were the school building, several classrooms, and offices. Classroom furniture, files, and science laboratory supplies were damaged; items were scattered and thrown about. Due to the chemicals involved, an environmental clean-up company was contacted to ensure the building is environmentally safe.

"Our building was determined to be environmentally safe. There are no hazards for students or staff," said McMorran.

The school building is attached to OLA Church, but no damage was reported to the church proper.

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