The Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of El Paso held its 10th Annual Foundation Scholar’s Prayer Breakfast honoring the 2022-2023 scholarship recipients on February 2, 2022. Hosted by Father Yermo School, over 250 parents, principals, men and women religious, and benefactors gathered to celebrate the Catholic Foundation Scholars, which consist of recipients of the Faith Scholarship, Miles Scholarship for Cathedral High School, Loretto High School, and Father Yermo Schools, Bishop Scholarship, Elizabeth Weihe Scholarship, Monsignor Francis Smith Scholarship, Galvan Scholarship, Sisters Caroline and Cecilia Vasquez Scholarship, Luz Ulrickson Scholarship, William Randolph Hearst Scholarship, Notre Dame Alumni Association Scholarship, Lightbourn-Whittler Scholarship, and the Nancy Mendez-Saucedo Scholarship.

The St. Patrick’s Mariachi Campanitas opened up the event with two gathering songs, Bishop Mark J. Seitz opened up in prayer, Steward of the Year and Cathedral Class of 2021 graduate, Diego Perales read a scripture from the Book of Jerimiah and Father Yermo Senior, Ramon Holguin blessed the meal. Retired Admiral and graduate of the Cathedral Class of 1976, Samuel Perez, Jr. was the keynote speaker. Born and raised in Canutillo, Texas, Admiral Perez attended Cathedral High School through an opportunity given to him by his parents and the community. After high school, he attended the US Naval Academy and engaged in a successful naval career. Admiral Perez, delighted the attendees with his words of encouragement to the scholars to do their best, take advantage of the opportunity they have been given to obtain a valuable faith-based education and enjoy the magic carpet ride that they are on as they journey through life.

The Catholic Foundation awarded over $205,000 to 165 Catholic Foundation Scholars attending El Paso’s Catholic Schools during the 2022-2023 school year. The majority of the funding for scholarships is distributed from endowed funds, with the remainder coming from donations. The Catholic Foundation Prayer Breakfast is held each year during Catholic Schools Week and is a heartwarming event as benefactors of these scholarships and the students who receive them, are united to show appreciation and celebrate their success.

If you are interested in finding out how you can support Catholic Schools in El Paso, or if you are interested in sending your child or grandchild to Catholic Schools and would like more information about the Catholic Foundation Scholarship program, please contact the Catholic Foundation at (915) 872-8412.