The SJR community came together on March 20, 2023, to celebrate the Solemnity of St. Joseph. The mass is an annual tradition at SJR and helps the students to gain a greater appreciation for the patron saint of their school. The celebrant of the mass was Father John Gordon from the Office for Evangelization of the Newark Archdiocese.
Father Gordon’s homily provided an opportunity for the SJR students to reflect on their own lives. He discussed the courage and honesty that defined everything St. Joseph did in his life as someone who put others before himself and who took great pride in helping those around him. The students were challenged by Father John to make a concerted effort to make those around them better, and to reflect on what aspects of St. Joseph’s life they would like to emulate. It was a powerful homily that undoubtedly resonated with the SJR students.
At the conclusion of the Mass, Principal Bruno took time to address the student body, most specifically the senior class. He told a story to students about a man who was unable to recall the name of his Catholic high school, and how he never wants that to happen to us. He wants us to forever remember our time at SJR as Green Knights. On that note, he gifted each senior with his own bottle of holy water, a keepsake that will always serve as a reminder of the lessons learned at SJR. Another gift was given out, this time to the whole student body, in the form of pastries. The delicious treats served as a great conclusion to a successful day at SJR.
The celebration of the Solemnity of St. Joseph truly provides a great opportunity for all those at SJR. It allows the students to learn more about the man their school is named after and ultimately grow stronger together. The mass is also a great reminder to cherish the memories at SJR and be appreciative of all those who make it such a special place.