A quilt made by Cindy Murphy and members of the St. Martin Quilting Club, founded by Rosemary Krampe and Becky Krampe. COURTESY OF NICOLE GRAY
In the spirit of Lent, St. Martin parishioners share time and talents to make beds and quilts for kids in need
BY NICOLE GRAY, SPECIAL TO the WESTERN KENTUCKY CATHOLIC
Sleep is more than just rest; it’s a fundamental aspect of a child’s wellbeing, essential for physical health, emotional stability, and mental development. However, for many children across the United States, the luxury of a comfortable bed remains out of reach, affecting their overall quality of life. Enter Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP), a national organization dedicated to bridging the gap between children in need and a good night’s sleep. Originating in Idaho, SHP has blossomed into a widespread movement, driven by volunteers committed to ensuring that “No kid sleeps on the floor in our town!”
Sleep in Heavenly Peace of Owensboro also recognizes this profound need, and mobilizes volunteers to build, assemble, and deliver bunk beds to families facing housing instability.
Cindy Murphy, a parishioner at St. Martin Parish in Rome, builds a bed at Sleep in Heavenly Peace of Owensboro. COURTESY OF NICOLE GRAY
Led by Debi Hopkins, director of religious education at St. Martin Parish in Rome, several young parishioners decided to lend their hands and hearts to this noble cause. On a cold day not long ago, Breylan Clancy, Katie Knott, Addy Simmons, and Jimmy Simmons epitomized the spirit of community and generosity by spending three hours building beds for children in need.
Together, with a few other volunteers, they crafted 30 beds that will offer comfort and solace to children facing uncertain nights in Owensboro and the surrounding communities. The turnout underscored the unwavering support and dedication of these volunteers, recognizing the importance of ensuring that every child has a safe place to rest their head. In addition to building beds, parishioners Cindy and Steve Murphy have dedicated their time to deliver beds for SHP. Cindy expressed the joy of witnessing children light up when they received a bed of their own.
Moreover, Cindy, as well as other members of the St. Martin Quilting Club, (founded by Rosemary Krampe and Becky Krampe), have contributed to the cause by crafting quilts to accompany the beds being delivered. Bellevue Baptist Quilt ministries is also a big contributor to SHP. Cindy said there is an ongoing need for sheets, pillows, comforters, and quilts to support SHP’s mission.
As we enter the season of Lent, a time of reflection and renewal, let us heed the example set forth by these volunteers. Let us embrace the spirit of compassion and service, sowing seeds of kindness and empathy in our communities.
Nicole Gray is the director of communications at St. Martin Parish in Rome, Ky.
Originally printed in the March 2024 issue of The Western Kentucky Catholic.
