How do students at the Academy start off their year on the right foot?  With an uplifting Mass, of course. As is the spiritual tradition here at AHN, on Friday, August 19, students from every grade participated in the first mass of the school year-the Mass of the Holy Spirit.

Older and younger students filled the Brady Center with their brand new uniforms.  An important part of the Academy traditions, the opening mass is a crucial part of the Academy. It spiritually energizes the school and provides an official opening of the year. “The spirit of community was palpable,” commented Sister Ann Regan, theology teacher.

The opening mass spiritually energized the school and provided an official opening of the year.  Sister Mary Patricia Plumb, the campus ministry officer, viewed the opening mass as having even more significance.  “It reminds everyone that we’re one school. It’s not just the high school or the middle school.”

Before Mass began, new Academy President Art Raimo welcomed the group to a new beginning at Academy. The opening song, “You Are Holy,”  inspired students, faculty, staff and guests to experience a shared sense of joy and mission.

Despite short notice, the worship band, under the leadership of Ms. Linda Ruescher, added extra enthusiasm to the mass with the addition of a tambourine and drums to their usual stellar vocals.  “They did an excellent job,” said Sister Mary Patricia Plumb, Campus Minister.

A senior, Josie Little, provided a pertinent reading about learning from the book of Sirach. The homily, delivered by Father Bruce Craig, visiting celebrant from Mary Help of Christians, reminded the Academy community of the importance of keeping a positive frame of mind.  “Some people like to focus on the bad things that happen to us, but the saints focused on the positive.”

Students ended the mass by joyfully singing, “Go Make a Difference, ” setting the challenge for all Academy students. There is no doubt that these driven students will accomplish this goal together.