I think some new pens are just the ticket for Bishop Maginn, they have very few pens at the school, and they’re pretty ordinary. I’m into lifting school spirits.

Bishop Maginn is full of energy and change, coming back from years of neglect, demographic change, Catholic Church turmoil, and declining enrollment.

There is so much new happening there – new computer lab, science lab, drama class, choir and music instructor, sports equipment, school supplies, rising enrollment.

While much of the country and our government has turned away from refugees and immigrants, Bishop Maginn has embraced them.

They are a special place with a special mission – helping the vulnerable and the needy, which is what Jesus Christ had in mind.

I try in this work to help boost the school’s spirit as well as their supplies and tuition fund. To that end, I ordered 150 new pens – ballpoint and stylus points – with custom lettering that reads:

“Welcome Friends: The New Bishop Maginn High School,” with the school’s telephone number below.  I got a good deal from the company that makes these pens (they are based in Dallas), I even talked my way into a discount because the school is a non-profit institution.

I’ll bring them to school next week when I come to take some photos and teach my Writing Workshop. The school’s new spirit is rising steadily, I can feel it when I go in there.

They are on the move, and in a good direction. The word is spreading about the school, enrollments applications are beginning to pour in. The Catholic Church, distracted by lawsuits and scandals, seems very supportive of the place, they call it a “mission” school because Mike Tolan is carrying out the mission of the Church.

I think the pens will help give them a sense of place and momentum. They are a small thing but they matter. I’m keeping several for myself, they sure lift my spirits.

Mike Tolan was happy to hear about them. Thanks for your support.