New Rochelle: A Joyful Start to the Academic Year

By Julia St. Clair, Province Communications Director

(New Rochelle, NY – September 14) – Salesian High School (Salesian High) celebrated its first Mass of the academic year last Friday, September 9. The entire student body as well as teachers and staff from both Salesian High and the Salesian Provincial Center gathered at Holy Name of Jesus for the Mass of the Holy Spirit. Fr. Tim Ploch celebrated the Mass, and Fr. Gus Baek, Fr. Tom Brennan, Fr. Paul Chu, Fr. Steve DeMaio, Fr. Jim Heuser, Fr. Mike Mendl, and Fr. Lou Molinelli concelebrated. Additionally, Fr. Tom Brennan and Br. Bill Hanna renewed their profession as Salesians of Don Bosco. This year marks the 50th anniversary of profession for both Fr. Tom and Br. Bill.

During the homily, Fr. Tim reminded everyone how we are here to implore asking God to pour down His Spirit into us and for us to be. This applies to being literal and metaphorical athletes, so we receive the power to do what is necessary and always do our best to improve ourselves. Fr. Tim advised everyone to "be like athletes in the race of life across the disciplines." This includes asking the Holy Spirit to come and help us see clearly. Additionally, Fr. Tim reminded us that we must see ourselves honestly before we judge others.

Moreover, Fr. Tim remarked how we can ask the Holy Spirit to come and help us all be successful in the year, see clearly, and teach us to spell joy. The theme for the year is to live in joy, which stands for Jesus, other people, and you (yourself). Joy comes from putting this into practice while refraining from judging and criticizing others. Thus, we welcomed a year full of joy with Jesus, being of service to others, and finally knowing our true selves.