Earlier this year, a student from John F. Kennedy Catholic High School was announced as a winner in a national essay contest sponsored by the Society for the Propagation of the Faith. Kearney, now a senior, won 2nd place in the “Got Good News” national essay contest for writing about her mission trip to Honduras. Her essay was just one of thousands submitted by high school students from across the country.

On October 21, Kearney was recognized at an all-school Mass at John F. Kennedy Catholic High School. Msgr. Francis Blood, Archdiocesan Director for the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, presented Kearney with an award honoring her achievements. The award was presented on behalf of Msgr. John Kozar, National Director for the Society for the Propagation of the Faith in New York. “Kearney, you have already gained great insights about missionary work. We missioners often receive more than we give from the people where we are sent,” Msgr. Blood said. “Thank you for having a missionary heart by going to Honduras, and for sharing your insights through the essay contest.”

Kearney's essay, which focused on her mission trip to Honduras, included how she came to appreciate the goodness, generosity, and faith of the people of El Monte, a tiny mountaintop village. In particular, she reflected upon one man named Arcadio. Arcadio and several other men from his village were helping to build a library when there was a terrible accident. Two men were severely injured, and Arcadio was killed. He left behind his wife and ten children. Kearney was touched by the outpouring of love and support for Arcadio’s family. “One person told us that they’d give their only day’s meal to help the family of this man who helped to do so much for their community,” Kearney wrote. “It was amazing to see the strength that the family received from the people of Monte Verde.”

Kearney went on to describe how her mission team and many people from the village kept working amidst the tragedy. “We continued to work on the church and many men helped us with the construction of the library. As we all had gloves and shovels to make the foundation and walls, these men only had their bare hands and feet to work with. Some walked many hours to come and help us with the construction of the library.” She was amazed by the generosity of these men and all the people she met while in Honduras. “The people of Honduras are a more kind and generous people than we are in the United States,” Kearney stated. “When we showed signs of needing help, they weren’t afraid to lend a hand. I will never be the same from my experience in Honduras, and I am hoping to return some day very soon.”

Kearney, we congratulate you and thank you for sharing your mission experience with us! You truly have a missionary heart, and we are grateful for all you have done for the people of Honduras. Congratulations! Special thanks to the entire John F. Kennedy Catholic High School community for hosting this special Mass and for celebrating Kearney’s achievements with us!

Kearney was featured in the November 6, 2009 edition of the St. Louis Review. Click here to read the article. (Must have a subscription.)