AUGUSTA---As Bishop Robert P. Deeley visited with students in each classroom at St. Michael Catholic School on Wednesday, March 4, he asked them about their studies, the Lenten season, and how things were going in their lives. For the eighth graders, who are readying to leave St. Michael for high school later this year, the bishop offered a new question.

“What is the most important thing you have learned at St. Michael Catholic School?” said the bishop, seconds before Ellie Hodgkin’s arm shot into the air.

“Compassion,” said the eighth grader.

Each day, Principal Kevin Cullen and his caring staff remind the students at the Augusta school about the importance of responding to the suffering of others, not by talking about compassion, but instead, by showing it.

At a special assembly on Wednesday, Bishop Deeley presented a check for $2,058 to Augusta Police Chief Robert Gregoire (ten pictures of the presentation and visit below). Chief Gregoire continues to recover from injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident during a charity ride for Shriners Hospitals for Children last year. The money was raised by the school at a charity basketball game on February 27, matching St. Michael teachers, alumni, and friends against representatives from local law enforcement agencies.

“Lent is not just about fasting and prayer, it’s also about doing for other people,” Cullen told the students during the assembly. “The bishop talked about that in every classroom today. All of us have the opportunity to help each other, no matter where we are. We want to do what we can to make other people’s lives better. I’m really proud of you.”

“Chief Gregoire was injured trying to help other people,” said Bishop Deeley before presenting the check. “We are so grateful that he is here today, and I am so grateful that you answered generosity and charity with generosity and charity by wanting to care for him and helping him out.”

“My strides have not been just from all the work that I have done,” said Chief Gregoire, who received a standing ovation from the students. “It’s been the well wishes, the thoughts, and prayers from you and the community that have made it easier for me to make great strides in my recovery. Thank you very much.”

During the assembly, Cullen announced that the charity basketball game between the school and law enforcement will become an annual tradition with the proceeds benefitting somebody in the community who needs the help, and compassion, of the St. Michael community.