When Dr. Mary Jo Cherry made a donation for the elementary school library a few years ago, no one foresaw what an impact it would have. Initially, elementary librarian Elaine Jacob arranged for one online meeting so the students could thank Dr. Cherry in person. The meeting was so enjoyable that Dr. Cherry began a monthly online story time using Zoom. Over the course of the year, she and the students developed a true friendship. When she traveled from Ohio to visit her childhood home in DuBois last spring, Dr. Cherry took advantage of the opportunity to visit the school in person. The students lined up excitedly for a chance to finally meet with her face to face.
When the new school year began, Dr. Cherry’s continued her online story hours in the library. During the September read-aloud, Dr. Cherry announced that she would be going on a pilgrimage to Greece. While she was away, she sent photos to Mrs. Jacob to share with the students. The children had so many questions about Dr. Cherry’s trip that Mrs. Jacob arranged a live call in the school auditorium to discuss the trip in more detail. During the call, Dr. Cherry told the students all about her pilgrimage, “Following in the footsteps of St. Paul.” Dr. Cherry traveled to the cities St. Paul visited during his journey through Greece in 49 AD. She visited what are believed to be the actual steps that St. Paul preached from, the jail cell where he was imprisoned, and many historical and religious sites.
More lighthearted topics were shared as well. Dr. Cherry told the students about her (almost) adventure of riding a donkey, and shared memories of childhood trips with her parents and five brothers. Once she finished her talk, the children were encouraged to ask their own questions. Students eagerly lined up in front of the camera for a chance to speak directly to Dr. Cherry. They wanted to hear all about her trip and her experiences. Most of all, they wanted a chance to visit with her one on one. In addition to learning about important church history, the children delighted in the opportunity to spend time with a dear friend.