Nestled in the countryside of Abbottstown, Paradise School offers a picturesque location for students who may struggle in a traditional school setting. This Catholic Charities of Harrisburg program includes a different learning environment on its 400-acre property. The newest edition is a state-of-the-art greenhouse, which Bishop Timothy Senior blessed on August 25.
“Today we ask God’s blessing as we dedicate this new greenhouse,” said the bishop. “We ask that those entrusted with the education of the young people in this space may teach their students how to join the discoveries of human wisdom with the truth of the Gospel so that they will be able to keep the true faith and live up to it in their lives.”
“We’re so grateful to be celebrating this beautiful day and the blessing of this greenhouse, which has been a dream of Dustin (Langeheine), our program director here, for many years,” said Kely Gollick, executive director of Catholic Charities in Harrisburg. “It’s a unique opportunity provided here at Paradise School. Learning hands-on about the world around them creates adults who appreciate nature, that not only want to spend time in it, but preserve it. And to support this hands-on learning is why we built this amazing greenhouse.”
Langeheine said the project was nearly three years in the making and combined the efforts of Paradise staff and donations from contractors.
“Last summer, we spent hours and hours and hours, on the roof, on the sides, double checking, triple checking, helping each other out. It was a really cool experience for all of us to get together,” he said.
“This is more than just a greenhouse. This is a symbol of hope, growth and care for our students,” said Langeheine. “It’s a place where they will learn, families will be supported, and the values of stewardship and community will take root and flourish. At Paradise School, we’re always looking for new ways to connect learning with light. We’re blessed to have a large property, and this is just another wonderful addition to be able to involve our students with some hands-on learning.”
“On behalf of the whole Church of Harrisburg, I’m very grateful to all the Catholic Charities Board and all of our benefactors and partners in making this ministry of the Church possible,” said Bishop Senior. “Through Catholic Charities, the Church, our Diocese, is really fulfilling a very important part of our mission.”
The bishop added that Catholic Charities uniquely fulfills its mission in partnership with governmental agencies and foundations.
“And that’s just where the Church needs to be. We need to be in the world and involved in what’s happening and making a contribution,” said Bishop Senior. “So may God continue to bless the historic mission of Paradise School in a beautiful place and now with this wonderful enhancement. Thank you again to all who make it possible.”
To learn more about Paradise School and the many other programs offered by Catholic Charities for the Diocese of Harrisburg, visit https://www.cchbg.org/.
(Photos by Chris Heisey, The Catholic Witness.)
By Rachel Bryson, The Catholic Witness
