"....We learned how similar we are in so many ways: Catholicism, Scouts, laughter, and the love of family. Learning about the differences in schools, foods, extracurricular activities, and customs was interesting, and it gave us insight into a culture different than our own.
Through Inspired Gateways, we made a connection with a family in France. Our oldest son was able to visit with them last summer. He had the most amazing visit with this family and enjoyed historical sights, delicious French cuisine, and a loving, fun, adventurous, and close family. He especially found it very powerful to visit Normandy and the WWII memorials with them.
My husband and I were in France earlier this year, and we spent a weekend visiting our student’s family. It was a weekend we will never forget. The hospitality that was shown to us was simply incredible. The region, food, wine, and most importantly, conversations made us feel like old friends by the time we left. This experience enriched our lives. It was powerful, fun, and very positive...."
French Catholic friendship
Family immersion
Experiencing high-school life
Catholic bridges
Servant leadership
French department
Cultural exchange
French Club
"The partnership between Inspired Gateways and Guerin Catholic High School has been a blessing to our school. Like other exchange programs, it provides students an opportunity to experience other cultures. What sets it apart is the integration of international Catholic identity. All of the students from France who have attended our school have been devout in their Catholic faith, and have helped our students have a better understanding of the universal Church. All of our students who have visited France have been immersed in the Catholic faith of France and returned having grown in their faith. I would highly recommend a partnership with the Inspired Gateways program to any Catholic high school looking to build on its international mindedness and Catholic identity."