Diocesan Week of Service

O’Connell’s Faith-Driven Efforts during the Diocesan Week of Service

By Mairin Dziepak (Class of 2028)

Although acts of service have always been important in the Arlington Diocese, this year, all were invited to be more involved than ever with the establishment of the very first Diocesan Week of Service. From Nov. 9 to 16, parishes and their communities were called to keep in mind the theme of “Love in Action– Service in Community” in their efforts. Bishop Burbidge emphasized the value of such ministry, which continues to “remind us of the countless ways we can bring Christ’s compassion to our neighbors.” The projects “are not just good deeds. They are powerful witnesses of our Catholic faith, tangible expressions of God’s love to those who need it the most.”

O’Connell students played an important role in such faith-led efforts, specifically schoolwide fundraisers. Leading up to the week, each grade brought in categories of hygiene items, according to their class year: freshman, toothpaste and toothbrushes; sophomores, deodorant; juniors, shampoo and bar soap; and seniors, laundry detergent. The proceeds were transported to St. Lucy’s food project and, in turn, delivered to nearby food pantries. 

To kick off the week, O’Connell celebrated Founder’s Day, dedicated to the convent of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, who founded our school. Students wrote letters to Camilla Hall, the order’s retirement home, located in Pennsylvania, for the Sisters to read. 

The same day, the Hand to Hunger club held its first meal packing event of the year. During Knight Time, students met in the school auxiliary gym to prepare sandwiches for New Hope Housing, an organization that provides food, shelter, and support for those in need in the northern Virginia area. Helpers packed more than two hundred peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in total, making for a successful start to the week. 

A long-standing O’Connell tradition is the Turkey Blitz, in support of the Gift of Peace Home. First opened by Mother Teresa, the hospice is run by her Missionaries of Charity, who care for the terminally ill. Over the course of two weeks, Theology teachers collected class donations for the cause. November 12 provided another opportunity to contribute with a fundraiser in partnership with Chipotle, raising 600 dollars from purchased meals. 

A Thursday 1:25 dismissal meant students could organize and pack items from the hygiene drive. The items were shipped directly to St. Lucy’s food pantry the next day. 

As the week came to a close, the school’s student-run mobile thrift store, Shining Armor, opened on Friday. Run by Expanded Services, the pop-up shop allowed students to visit and browse the selection of quality clothes. Each purchase truly made a difference, as all proceeds and leftover clothes from the sale were distributed to Catholic Charities. 

With colder months approaching, local shelters provide hot cups of coffee for their guests. Throughout the week, staff collected packets to donate to local shelters in need of restock. 

This year’s Diocesan Week of Service brought many together in compassion for those less fortunate. When preparing for the holiday season, it is crucial to offer support to people who struggle with a lack of food, shelter, and financial stability. The O’Connell community’s efforts were united in faith and love, making for a successful week.