Friends of Catholic Education (FOCE) is a ministry that was created many years ago to assist students and families attending our former parish school, St. Vitus School/Holy Spirit Academy.

• Anchors our parish's Catholic School families by providing spiritual experiences throughout the year in the form of 3 special FOCE Masses at Holy Spirit Parish churches.
• Provides encouragement to our Catholic School students throughout the year, offering back-to-school gifts and social gatherings such as last year's FOCE Fiesta.
• Encourages service in the parish and community by arranging service projects.
• Fundraises to offer transportation reimbursement, making the commitment to Catholic Education easier for families.
• Acts as a liaison between the parish and families, area Catholic Schools, and community organizations.

• FOCE currently supports approx. 45 parish children attending Catholic Schools.
• FOCE has assisted the local American Legion Post 343 since 2021 in an annual Flag Swap, switching out old and tattered American Flags for new ones at Veteran gravesites in Greenwood Cemetery.
• FOCE members attend 4 area Catholic Schools.
• 11 of our FOCE children participate in the parish as altar servers, readers, ushers, and/or cantors!
• We have a talented crew! FOCE members have won State Championships, Carson Scholarships, medals in various sporting events, excel in their schools, and participate in countless activities.
• The FOCE-sponsored Parish Christmas Parade float won 1st Prize in New Castle's 2021 Hometown Holiday Parade.