Yesterday afternoon I had an endearing conversation with a group of Eighth Class young women who signed up to have an after school goûter with me in the conference room. This afternoon I am doing the same with a group of our young men.
What struck me in yesterday’s conversation is that, over and over again, these young adults referred to this place as a second home! Given the fact that the early religious were referred to as Mothers, I was indeed delighted to hear their reflections.
Our soon-to-be graduates also enthusiastically recalled their all-time favorite traditions―some of which have already been experienced this year: Christmas Basket Liturgy, Congé, Mission Day and our Feast Day celebrations.
Today I’d like to highlight some of the precious memory-making moments coming up in the next couple of weeks. All of them create a heart-connection with this school because they evoke a sense of our history, steep us in our spirituality, highlight our desire to build community, and/or celebrate the qualities and characteristics (scholarly, socially and morally) which we want to nurture in our children. So, in the next few week we happily and hopefully anticipate the following:
FIELD DAY
With a focus on fun, Field Day is a long-running Academy tradition that celebrates student successes and builds community. Liturgy is followed by a parade, picnic lunch, games and activities and closes with an awards ceremony.
MAY CROWNING
This special liturgy in Rauch Memorial on Thursday, May 16 at 1:30 p.m. honors Mary. Students are chosen from grades P‒8 to take part in the procession that concludes with the crowning of Mary by an Eighth Class girl.
MAYPOLE
Following the May Crowning liturgy, we gather on the soccer field for the Maypole dance with our soon-to-be graduates and our Second Class girls. It’s a beautiful and memorable event.
CLOSING AND PRIZE DAY CEREMONIES
Prize Ceremony formally ends the school year and applauds students for the development of strong character traits and academic performance.
Along with our Eighth Class friends, I look forward to these time-honored activities and anticipate seeing you ‘round campus in the days ahead!
