DIOCESAN NEWS
02/09/07
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Harmony Day focuses on student issues
By Fabvienen Taylor
        NATCHEZ — “I was a good person and I became a monster,” said D. Patricia Hoggatt, a recovering drug user who is now an evangelist. “But God set me free.”
Hoggatt brought her message of drug addiction recovery and redemption to several groups of students who attended a workshop on “Avoiding Drugs and Crime” at Cathedral Middle/High School on Wednesday, Jan. 31, as part of Harmony Day.
Harmony Day is a special day held during Catholic Schools Week each year designed to give students the opportunity to learn about topics directly affecting the lives of young people today.
        Guest speakers are invited to the school to present workshops on topics from “Drinking and Driving” to Abstinence and Abortion” to “Meditation” to “Dating Violence.”
        The day started with a keynote address from Rev. Stan Buckley, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Jackson. Students could choose to attend three of the 16 workshops offered during the day.
        Students are asked to give their input in the selection of topics for the workshops.
Harmony Day is planned and presented under the direction of the Cathedral High School Peer Ministry Team. Faculty member Mike Roboski assists the team.
        The team consists of juniors and seniors who provide peer counseling to students in grades 7-12 throughout the school year.
        “In addition to helping to plan Harmony Day we plan retreats for the students during the year, pick out the themes and plan the activities,” said Chase Caldwell, 17, a senior.
        Senior Madeline Jeansonne, 17, said being a part of the team is not all work. “You have a lot of fun too,” she said. “And you get to know the younger kids, to play games with them and other activities.”
        On Harmony Day, Kristina Brumfield, 18, said her best experience was in the workshop on meditation.
        “Mrs. (Vickie) Malone gave us some practical ways to take a few moments out of your day to relax and let out the stress,” Brumfield said. “She talked about how to do deep breathing and concentrating as you breathe in and out. It was very helpful.”
        “I think every school should have a Harmony Day,” said Brumfield. “You learn about stuff you can really use.”
        Harmony Day is the center of Catholic Schools Week at Cathedral High School each year.
        Catholic Schools Week is celebrated nationwide by Catholic schools including those in the Diocese of Jackson.
        This year’s theme was “The Good News in Education.”

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