Lunch and laughter for Loretto Leaders and Loretto Community members

A delightful lunch in January was a much-anticipated opportunity for the fourth- and fifth-grade Loretto Leaders at St. Mary’s

Academy in Denver to enjoy the company of 10 sisters and co-members who are their buddies.

As part of the lower school Loretto Leaders program that I run with three teachers, students are paired with a Loretto Community member as a buddy. Even though it was their first face-to-face meeting, the strong bonds established through letters, holiday cards and occasional videos were visible in the easy, engaging conversation.

The hour passed quickly, with hugs and smiles and the Loretto members relishing the chance to be back in a school setting. The excitement for the next group of Loretto Leaders is palpable, with plans for this new tradition of a Buddy Luncheon already in motion, promising to further strengthen the bonds of friendship and camaraderie between the students and the Loretto Community.