Kicking Off The Start of Catholic Schools Week

National Catholic Schools Week is in full swing at OLLA, starting off with an inspirational mass reflecting on what it means to go to a Catholic institution.

Mia Michele Aviles, Editor In Chief

February 2, 2022

Members of the Junior class praying the Lourdes Our Father during Monday’s mass. (Mariana Puga)

Catholic Schools Week is a national annual celebration of Catholic education here in the United States. This year is the 48th anniversary, with the theme of: Faith. Excellence. Service.

Schools across the country celebrate with masses, open houses, and school activities for students, families, and community members. The week focuses on the value of a Catholic education, and all of the benefits it provides for not only the youth, but to the Church, local communities, and our nation. With Mary in All Things, the school motto, faith is a part of everything.

Senior Valentina Villar giving a speech to the student body about how her time at Lourdes and practicing her faith inspired her service project to help the elderly. (Mariana Puga)

According to OLLA.ORG, “The mission of Our Lady of Lourdes Academy is to educate young women to face the future strengthened by our faith, prepared and confident in their abilities to achieve their goals and committed to their Catholic and American heritages.”

Catholicism is rooted in every class, every pep rally, and every school related activity in order to help students find peace and comfort guided by their faith. The goal of a Catholic education is to prepare students for life while also imparting the lessons and beliefs that we are all part of an interconnected relationship with God.

To start off such an important week, OLLA held a mass on Monday morning. Celebrated by Father Matthew, themes such as self care, patience, and acceptance of the world despite the chaos around you were presented to the students and faculty alike and provided insightful guidance to many who were struggling. The mass brought out feelings of unity and togetherness, ultimately leading back to the theme for the 2021-2022 school year: THIRVE. Not only did the mass celebrate Catholic Schools Week, but it also named the Teacher of the Year, Mr. Stephen Hernandez. For many years, Mr. Hernandez has been beloved by the students at OLLA, as he always makes sure to create a supportive and encouraging environment when learning hard subjects such as math or coding.

Sister Carmen Fernandez and Mr. Stephen Hernandez celebrating his Teacher of the Year Award. (Mariana Puga)

Aside from mass, OLLA has a lot of organizations and events to provide students and faculty with more opportunities to practice their faith. With clubs such as God Squad, Peer Ministry, as well as events like retreats, Encounter with Christ, and weekly rosaries, the Campus Ministry team is sure to have something for everyone.