“Every school year is a new beginning,” Bishop Edward Malesic told the St. Bernadette School community as he prepared to celebrate the Mass of the Holy Spirit on Sept. 6. The liturgy marked the start of the new academic year for the 438 students in Pre-K to grade 8.
Also celebrated that day was the school’s designation as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2023. The bishop congratulated the school community including the faculty, staff and parish leaders – as well as the students – for their hard work in achieving Blue Ribbon status.
He encouraged students to renew their relationship and friendship with Jesus, whom he said “wants to be your best friend.” One of the reasons they attend a Catholic school is to learn more about Jesus, the bishop explained.
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He talked about the presence of the Holy Spirit throughout the school. “Our heads may feel so full that we think we can’t fit anything else in, but then God opens a space. The Holy Spirit is hovering over this church and school reminding us who we are." He said as the students strengthen their bodies and minds, and when they breathe in the Holy Spirit, he strengthens their souls.
“The Holy Spirit teaches us to be people of love following Jesus, who fills us with love,” Bishop Malesic said. “You can be filled with knowledge, but only God’s love will turn you into saints,” which, he said, is the goal.
The bishop told the students to be respectful and kind to one another, pointing out “the Gospel is the greatest anti-bullying program.” He also said they should pray to the Holy Spirit to help those in need and to help them learn how to be the best students possible.
Reflecting on the day’s readings, the bishop encouraged the students to “dream big and act on those dreams to make the world a better place. Each of you has special gifts so you can help others," he added.
Bishop Malesic told the students their teachers love them and have made sacrifices to teach them at St. Bernadette School. He said they should thank both their teachers and their parents for the sacrifices they make to provide the students with a Catholic education.
After Mass, the Blessed Sacrament was exposed and the congregation spent some time in adoration.
“Jesus is here. Remember that. Those who receive Communion take Jesus with them in a special way. You are a tabernacle, the breathing, living hands and feet of Jesus. Always take him with you to help someone else. That’s what love is and that’s how you will grow up to be good Christians and keep the faith,” he added.
The current school principal, Mary Beth Sullivan, and three past principals – John Stipek, Maureen Goodwin and Monica Dietz – attended the Mass and brought up the offertory gifts.
Father Phil Racco, pastor, thanked each of them for their dedication and contributions to the school.
In addition to Father Racco, Father Joe Menkhaus, parochial vicar, concelebrated the liturgy. Deacon Mark Cunningham assisted and Deacon Kyle Rosser served as the bishop’s master of ceremonies.
After Mass, the bishop visited several classrooms in the school, chatting with students, saying prayers and offering a blessing.