The All Saints School and Mater Dei Academy communities gathered on Aug. 16 at St. Justin Martyr Parish in Eastlake for Mass and a picnic to celebrate the beginning of the Lake County Catholic School Network, LLC.
Bishop Edward Malesic joined parishioners, students, faculty and staff to mark the milestone for Catholic education in Lake County.
(See photo gallery above.)
“The Lake County Catholic School Network is the first creative endeavor launched from the hard work and commitment of many stakeholders who participated in a multi-year study as part of the Keeping the Faith Strategic Plan,” the bishop said.
“This new network represents a vibrant partnership between six parishes: Immaculate Conception (Willoughby), Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Wickliffe), St. John Vianney (Mentor), St. Justin Martyr (Eastlake), St. Mary Magdalene (Willowick) and St. Noel (Willoughby Hills). The network will operate All Saints School and Mater Dei Academy on behalf of these six parishes,” he added.
Alongside Bishop Malesic, Father Josh Cochrac, St. Justin Martyr administrator, Father Tom Johns, St. John Vianney pastor, and Father Steve Breck, St. Mary Magdalene pastor, concelebrated the inaugural network liturgy.
“The Lake County Catholic Schools Network is a model of innovation and collaboration that helps the Diocese of Cleveland preserve, enhance and grow Catholic education in Lake County — ensuring it remains a vibrant, faith-filled option for future generations,” Bishop Malesic said. “Thanks to all involved in the Keeping the Faith Strategic Plan and making the dream of helping our children become saints a reality through the Network we are celebrating today. Thanks to our pastors and educational leaders and all who helped to make this Network of Schools in Lake County not just a possibility, but a reality. I am grateful.”
The Lake County Catholic School Network serves 600 students in grades pre-K through 8.
Click here to learn more about the Lake County Catholic School Network, LLC, All Saints School and Mater Dei Academy.