Article by Madison Callinan, ’18:
On Friday, February 26, 2016, the Kellenberg Memorial High School cadet, tyro, freshman, and sophomore classes had the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. During religion classes, students left their books and backpacks in their locker to release their emotional and spiritual “baggage” that they often carry. With the help of numerous priests from surrounding parishes, students were able to confess and be absolved from their sins. While students waited in the auditorium, members of the Gregorian Consortium used their incredible voices to add reverence, singing beautiful hymns such as “Amazing Grace” and “10,000 Reasons.” An examination of conscience was projected on the screen in the front of the auditorium, displaying various questions on different topics to help students prepare for the sacrament. The reverent and prayerful atmosphere helped sophomores delve into their repressed, maybe embarrassing sins, or broken Lenten promises.
The ARK, located on the second floor, displays daily Lenten messages with a different challenge for students to attempt throughout the school day. Some of the challenges have been wearing your uniform perfectly the whole day, listening only to Christian music, and not using any extra apps on your phone. Mixing up the Lenten challenges encourages students to continually refocus every day on something that is meant to bring them closer to Christ. Talking with your friends about the daily challenge spreads the word, encourages, and reminds others to focus on their Lenten promises. Even if we haven’t been completely faithful, we should always strive to model our lives after Jesus.
Once receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation, many students felt relieved and in harmony with the Lord, which was the perfect way to end the school week, start the weekend, and to continue with a clean slate so we can rededicate and motivate our lives to glorify the Lord.