On Friday, October 2, 2020, the St. Joseph School community gathered to celebrate their first, First Friday Mass since returning to in-person learning for the 2020-2021 academic year. The practice of celebrating Mass on the First Friday of each month originated in 1673 when a French Visitation nun named Margaret Mary Alacoque had visions of Jesus. In her visions, Jesus asked the Church to honor His Most Sacred Heart by receiving Communion on the First Fridays, for nine consecutive months, so they grow closer to His Heart. Celebration of Mass on First Fridays at St. Joseph School allows students to encounter Jesus more than just on Sundays and deepen their love for Him.
Although only 7th and 8th Grade students could be seated in the Basilica to celebrate Mass (due to social distancing requirements), the school’s remainder participated by watching the LIVE stream in their classrooms on interactive Promethean Boards. During Mass, 8th Grade students Lauren Gingo and Samantha Keller led the school in the Liturgy of the Word. The 8th-Grade student and altar server, Dale Boudreau, prepared the chalice for Pastor and Headmaster, Rev. Grzegorz Chodkowski. Also, 7th Grade students Maeve Sullivan, Matthew Zdrok, and Aleksandra Parafinowicz led the school in the Prayer of the Faithful, and Adam Podgorny and Treyton Dery served on the altar.
October 2 was also the Feast of the Guardian Angels. During his homily, Fr. Gregory reflected on guardian angels. He reminded students that they will always need help no matter what their age and should never hesitate to seek assistance from others. Following the Mass, 8th Grade student Maya Podskarbi led the student body in reciting the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. Praying the Chaplet is a glorious way to experience the Mercy of God and another example of the continuous and close interaction of St. Joseph School with the Basilica. This relationship helps the students acquire good habits that will shape their spirituality for years to come.
To view additional photos from the Mass, please click HERE.
