Thursday, September 3, 2009

Regina Catholic Schools Opening Mass

Our Lady of the Rosary
Patron of the Archdiocese
Centenery Icon

The educational community of Regina Catholic Schools gathered last week in the Cathedral to begin the school year by celebrating the Eucharist. We gave thanks to God for the blessings of Catholic Education in our Archdiocese and we sought strength and guidance through Communion with our Risen Lord and the grace of this Sacrament of Love for all who teach our children and youth.

Holy Rosary Cathedral was filled to capacity and beyond with teachers spilling out into the foyer and onto the steps.

It was very pleasant to see an excellent turn out of the Pastors of the Regina area to concelebrate this Mass, to pray for all those involved in Catholic education and to indicate their support and encouragement.

There was a full voiced and praise filled choir who led the assembly in joyful praise of God


"Let my prayers rise before you like incense, O Lord."


The Centennial Icon of Our Lady of the Rosary was in a prominent place for the Eucharistic Celebration. On my left is one of the concelebrating priests, Msgr. Don Bolen, V.G.


Deacon Joe Lang raises the Book of Gospels after he has proclaimed the Gospel to us all. This is an important part of the ministry of Deacon.


At the conclusion of the Liturgy of the Word, I blessed copies of "100 Faith Stories" a book published on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Archdiocese taking place this year. This very interesting and at times moving book contains faith stories from people throughout the Archdiocese.


"Through Him, with Him and in Him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honour is yours, Almighty Father, for ever and ever. Amen


The Mass concluded with a special blessing for the teachers and those involved in Catholic education.



Following the Mass recognition was given to those with special landmarks in Catholic education. Here are the 15 year group.



And those with twenty five years.




We all owe a great debt of gratitude for this great number of teachers who understand that their work with our children and youth is a vocation given them by God and carried out in love for Him and the children God has placed in our care.


The Mission Statement of Regina Catholic Schools clearly expresses our understanding of this great treasure which is Catholic education:



The Regina Catholic School Division is dedicated to working with the community and the local church to provide a quality Catholic education that fosters academic excellence and the development of informed, responsible citizens.

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