St. Rene Faithful Rally to Save School

Well over 100 people--and perhaps as many as 150--braved

the cold, windy weather Sunday night to show support at a prayer vigil for St. Rene Goupil School---one of two Southwest Side Catholic elementary schools that the Chicago Archdiocese plans to close after the 2014-15 school year.

The vigil was organized quickly by several parent leaders at the school, who vowed that they would find a way to reverse the decision and keep the school open.

St. Rene has been a cornerstone of Catholic education in the Clearing neighborhood for decades.

The decision to close, consolidate and re-configure certain schools in the Chicago Archdiocese was explained by Francis Cardinal George, O.M.I., in a column posted online:

http://www.catholicnewworld.com/cnwonline/2014/1102/cardinal.aspx

Video of the prayer vigil below. Organizers are asking that all friends of St. Rene Goupil School--parishioners, parents, alumni, alumni parents, local business owners, and all members of the community, attend a planning meeting set for 7 p.m. Thursday, November 6 at the school, 6340 South New England Avenue.

People of all abilities are needed to help pull together and implement an action plan to save the school and ensure its long-term survival.

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