Dress-down day themes, sports games and bingo all contributed to the excitement of Catholic Schools Week; however, the most cherished tradition of all fell at the end. As the festivities of the week came to a close, the true star of the show entered the stage: All City Mass. Students from the schools of St. Agnes, Christ the King, Holy Spirit, St. Lambert, St. Mary, St. Katharine Drexel, St. Michael, O’Gorman Junior High and O’Gorman High School all gathered together for a special celebration of the Eucharist. This year, Bishop DeGrood focused on the teachings of Italian St. John Bosco, particularly his theories on the education of young students. His preventive system included three pillars: reason, religion, and kindness. With the support of these pillars, education came to be built on mentorship rather than punishment, a model based on the Creator and His creations. Connecting these teachings back to God’s ultimate plan for His children, Bishop DeGrood reminded students of the ways in which they must recognize His presence throughout everyday life.

As year after year passed, All City Mass quickly took a crucial role in the bonding of the Catholic school community. Junior Brenna Kestel shared her thoughts on the lasting impact of the Mass: “I think that the tradition of the All City Mass reminds the Bishop O’Gorman community of the privilege we have to share our faith and celebrate Mass in school,” Kestel said. She expressed the importance of attendance, saying, “It also brings us all together and focuses us on the mission of the system.” 

All City Mass has become a significant part of Catholic Schools Week, and each year has proven to be more special than the last. The tradition is not only cherished by faculty, but also by new and returning students alike. As the Bishop O’Gorman system continues to grow, the comfort of reuniting with past teachers and students during All Schools Mass remains the same.