School is in session!!
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Above: All smiles on day one at Trinity Catholic in Oswego
Diocesan classrooms come alive once again
By Charlie Young, contributing writer
Sing with us now:
“School bells ring, are you listening? In the halls, kids are whistling! A beautiful sight, faces are bright – it’s great to be in Catholic school again!”
Okay, so it’s not a Grammy-worthy tune. Tell that to students, teachers, staff and families across the seven-county Diocese of Syracuse, home to 19 schools within the diocesan system. The excitement, energy and joy that September brings is due to a foundation of faith that permeates all classes and activities.
Here’s a look at several of our schools on opening day:
St. Mary’s Academy, Baldwinsville
Catholic TV was on hand as classes got underway, as you’ll see here: https://youtu.be/GbzX5eKa0L0?feature=shared
Blessed Sacrament, Syracuse
Principal Lisa Coppola shared that “We are dedicating the 2024-2025 school year to the Blessed Mother.” There is no better way to start that devotion than with the Rosary, the Living Rosary in this case. Students gathered in the gym, forming a very rosary-like circle and sharing the Glorious Mysteries with students taking turns leading the prayers.
“We’ll be doing a decade of the Rosary every day, explaining all the different mysteries,” Coppola told us. “She [Blessed Mother] is our guide, our exemplar of behavior and love toward others.”
Trinity Catholic, Oswego
Trinity Catholic students took advantage of a photo-opp, posing in front of the school sign as a welcome back from faculty and staff.
Immaculate Conception, Fayetteville
Immaculate Conception School in Fayetteville was bustling with big smiles and excitement on the first day of school. Principal Mrs. Ferrarone welcomed all returning students, as well as new IC families. Also on hand was the pastor, Fr. Cliff Auth, with faculty and staff ready to begin the new school year. Students from Pre-K 3 to 6th grade enjoyed being reunited with their friends and meeting new ones.
Bishop Grimes Jr/Sr High School, E. Syracuse
At Bishop Grimes, students attended full-day Orientation Days where they attended our Opening Prayer Service, participated in team-building activities, went to their classes, met the faculty and staff, and received their iPads. Busy day!
Bishop Ludden Jr/Sr High School, Syracuse
At Bishop Ludden it was a welcome moment coming through the doors, meeting new friends and hugging the old ones. Lockers can still be tricky and classes (with homework, no doubt) get started right away. (Sun photos l Joelle Zarnowski)
Notre Dame Elementary School, Utica
Fr. Jason Hage, pastor of Mary, Mother of our Savior Church in Utica, was on hand as faculty and staff welcomed young students back to class after a refreshing summer break.
