The Marist student body gathered on Monday, January 27, 2020 to celebrate mass and kick-off Catholic Schools Week. Members of the class of 1970, celebrating their fiftieth reunion, were special guests. The mass celebrated the "good fruit" of Catholic education.
Principal Larry Tucker '79 spoke before the start of mass and asked the seniors to imagine themselves in 50 years from now--the year 2070. "Will you come back to mass at Marist?," he asked. He went to say that we stand on the shoulders of the alumni and others who made the Marist of today possible, and that the Marist of tomorrow rests on the shoulders of today's students. He also recognized senior Dominic Brunius who was recently accepted into Navy Seals program. In order get into the program, while he had many qualifications, Dominic needed to improve his swimming. So he started practicing with the girls' swim team and Coach Kelly Sullivan. Mr. Tucker pointed out how this reflects the spirit of a Catholic school--helping one another out when needed.
Fr. Tom Hurley '85 shared the story of Andrew, a four-year-old boy who was inspired to run a bake sale to raise money for the poor. He gave the money in an envelope (pictured) to Fr. Hurley asking him to make sure those in need received it. Fr. Hurley pointed out how Andrew must have seen this in his life--the values of generosity and kindness--lived out by those he is connected to such as parents, grandparents, and others. It was connection that Fr. Hurley emphasized. He spoke of our connection to one another, our Marist mission, and our faith. The readings echoed this theme.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5
Following communion, senior Hannah Cleveland and math teacher Mike Reid '10 reflected on the impact Catholic education has had on their lives. Hannah has found meaning in service and liturgy, while Mr. Reid realized his experiences at Marist as a student led to his career because he asked himself, " How can I most help others?" He left students with a quote by educator Minor Myers, Jr.: "Go into the world and do well. But more importantly, go into the world and do good."
Other events and programming is planned for Catholic Schools Week.