News Post

St. Joseph’s Academy gathered as a school community on December 8 to celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Father Josh Zelden, SJA’s chaplain, was the celebrant.

Freshman Belle Camp welcomed the large gathering in the Academy Student Center. “On this holy day of obligation, we look to our Blessed Mother Mary for courage to say yes to God’s will as she did, for faith to trust in God’s plan as she did and for the virtues of humility and gentleness that she modeled,” she said.

Senior Clare Valluzzo lit the memorial candle to remember the members of the Academy community who have passed away, especially since the last mass. 

Junior Abby Eldredge read from the book of Genesis. Freshman Julia Downs read from the letter of Paul to the Ephesians. Freshmen Ainsley Hoover and Brennan Butler offered the Prayers of the Faithful. 

A combined choir of SJA and Catholic High students was under the direction of Danielle Laird. Cantors were senior Camille Funes and CHS senior Baker Brooks. Angela Sneed played the keyboard. 

Following mass, the choir treated those gathered to a stirring rendition of Rejoice Israel featuring soloists Allison Riley and Baker Brooks.

Principal Stacia Andricain thanked those who planned the mass. She said it was a beautiful day to celebrate Mary, our mother, as we prepare for the coming of Christ this Advent season. “We can ask Mary, who was born without sin, to guide us and help us to keep our focus during this busy season,” she said. “We can find peace in prayer during this time of year.”

Dean of Academics Aubrey DeJohn announced that the Mothers’ and Dads’ clubs will serve hot chocolate and donuts on Thursday of exam week and that the Counseling Center will host the annual visit by therapy dogs on Tuesday and Thursday of exam week. 

DeJohn also said this is a great time of year to reflect on those who mean so much to us. “This should be a time to show our appreciation for all of those around us and not just with a wrapped gift,” she said. “Take time to tell others they are a gift to us.”

She also asked faculty and staff to stand and for the students who show their appreciation with applause. 

The gathering closed with the singing of the alma mater led by senior Camille Funes.