b'Without question, however, the single most impor- such a big impact, partly because it gave them a safetant catalyst that kindles faith in students, one that place to discuss their doubts, deal with peer pressuresoften reverberates among families, is the Marianist and explore social justice issues without feeling judged.LIFE program. These are powerful learning experiences.Monica has witnessed something similar. At dinner,LIFEs invitation our older kids often would share about LIFE projectsAs an administrative assistant at Daniel J. Gross and social justice issues, she says. That kitchen-tableCatholic High School in Omaha, Nebraska, Debbie talk affected all of us. Even now, our kids come homeRice has seen lots of parents find their way back to with all kinds of questions and it helps us evaluateI remember when the Church, often spurred on by their sons or daughters what we think and believe. Its made us more openour oldest son, Anton, involvement with Marianist LIFE (Living in Faith and keeps us growing in our faith.returned from the Experiences), a student-led faith formation program.Parents see changes in their children, and it ignites A larger mystery at workLIFE summer program. something in them, she says. Debbie Mendez, whose son, John Patrick, is a seniorHe was a different I remember when our oldest son, Anton, returned at Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory in kid. His faith was so from the LIFE summer program, says Debbie. He Hollywood, Florida, says his faith has grown byalive, and it opened was a different kid. His faith was so alive, and it leaps and bounds since his involvement with LIFE.up discussions about opened up discussions about faith with the rest of But John has been on an accelerated spiritual pathfaith with the rest of our kids.for some time.our kids. Debbie and her husband, Bill, have nine children. Born with Alport syndrome, a condition that causes Debbie Rice, parent, Daniel The three oldest are graduates of Gross Catholic. hearing loss and kidney failure, Johns young life hasJ. Gross Catholic High School Elizabeth, 15, a freshman; Luke, 16, a sophomore; been marked by multiple surgeries and hospitaliza-and William, 17, a senior, all attend the school. The tions. Its been rough, says Debbie. As a parent,three youngest are in elementary school. its hard to see your child in pain. Although I neverLooking at my older kids, I know their faith is abandoned my faith, I have been angry with God atwhat it is today because of LIFE, says Debbie. It had times, mostly because I felt so helpless.Debbie Rice enjoys watchingPHOTO: ERIC FRANCISher children play a board game.12 Call 1.800.348.4732'