Each day since Monday, stacks of envelops, most hand addressed, many containing a brief note, one containing two seed packets of forget-me-not flowers, have arrived at the offices of the Diocese of Kentucky. All contain donations for one or both funds established to help pay the funeral expenses for Claudia Wadlington and Riley Lawrence, the two little girls killed by a hit-and-run driver on July 25 in Louisville. Most of the donors are individuals from the Louisville area, but donations have also come from large corporations, small businesses, church organizations, and even a middle school class. Donations have also been mailed from Bardstown, Greensburg, Lexington, Mount Washington, New Haven, Nicholasville, Nortonville, Paducah, Shelbyville, White Plains and Union in Kentucky as well as from Denver, Colo., and several communities in Ohio and Tennessee.

All told, as of 2 p.m. today (Friday, Aug. 1), 201 contributions have been received, totaling $11,999. 

The generosity of spirit that arrives with these envelopes is moving. Along with the checks, which have ranged from $7 to $1,000, many contain loving, thoughtful notes, cards, prayers and small gifts.

Today an envelope arrived with two embroidered handkerchiefs and the message: "My heart breaks for the tremendous loss you all have suffered. My brother-in-law is a police officer for the Louisville Metro. I am giving this donation in his name. I hope it helps a little. These handkerchiefs are to dry your tears, and to remind you that you are loved. Also that you are thought of in my prayers."

Today's mail also brought a sympathy card from the inmates at a state prison. It began, "We hope we haven't offended none of you by paying our respects in sending this card to let you know that your daughters are in our prayers."

Some notes are brief but nonetheless filled with depth of heart. One contributor noted, "A tear for Claudia and Riley: tears are prayers without words." Another wrote, "I wish I could send more but times are very tough right now."

The following prayer was sent by another contributor:

"Father, sustain the families and friends of Claudia and Riley and keep them in your loving care. Through your gracious light, the Holy Spirit, open their hearts to receive your special love that is every nod, gentle touch, warm smile, strong hug, handshake, nourishment or good deed.

Fill every heart in this community with love and courage to help one another through this trying time. We ask this through your son, our lord, Jesus Christ. Amen."

 

[The Diocese of Kentucky has established funds to help defray the funeral costs. Checks should be made out to "Trustees and Council, Diocese of Kentucky" with a clear notation on the face of each check or an accompanying letter identifying that the contribution is to go to the Claudia Wadlington Funeral Fund and/or Riley Jane Lawrence Funeral Fund. Donations should be sent to the Diocese of Kentucky, 425 S. Second St., Suite 200, Louisville KY 40202.]