Outside St. Lawrence Catholic Church on Sunday, January 13,  the weather was as if spring had already come with warm weather and sunny skies.

However, inside the church, the altar was still aglow with sparkling white Christmas trees and poinsettias to welcome Academy staff, students and their families, who traveled from their parishes to worship as an AHN community.

AHN President Mr. Arthur Raimo spoke before the Mass to a packed congregation, thanking  Fr. Morgan and his parish for their hospitality.  He explained how AHN students serve Christ and the Church in their service to others in the community and on mission trips to Appalachia, Mississippi, Dominican Republic, Ruskin and local service needs.   “I encourage all families to learn more about our high school.  Your students will be making the best decision of their lives if they decide to attend the Academy.”

Fr. Thomas Morgan, Pastor of St. Lawrence, celebrated the Mass. His homily included one directed at first to the small children in the parish who joined Father in front of the altar for a sharing of their faith.  Father Morgan followed with a homily that touched on the importance of answering the call to vocations, whether they be as priests, sisters, parents, or single people who serve God. “I recognize the dedication of Academy teachers, families and students  to One greater than themselves – Jesus Christ.”

The Academy Worship Band joined the St. Lawrence Youth Choir in leading the congregation in song.  After the Mass,  Academy guests and St. Lawrence families enjoyed refreshments in the parish hall.