Article by Phoenix writer Lauren DeRiggi ’24:
On January 26, 2023, the Kellenberg Memorial family gathered to celebrate Mass for Founder’s Day. This is a day for students and faculty to remember Kellenberg’s founders: Blessed William Joseph Chaminade, Blessed Adele de Trenquelleon, Bishop Walter P. Kellenberg, Bro. Joseph Fox, and St. Agnes.
The Mass for Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors took place in the auditorium and was celebrated by Fr. Chris Heller. Fr. Chris is the youngest priest in the Diocese of Rockville Centre and is a graduate of Chaminade High School.
Fr. Chris’ homily focused on the Wedding of Cana and the message from the Blessed Mother to “Do whatever He tells you.” The founders of Kellenberg truly lived out this message by revitalizing a closed high school and turning it into a school deeply rooted in the Marianist tradition.
Jacob Ospina ‘24 stated, “I enjoyed this Mass since it was a great opportunity to hear the stories of the individuals who founded Kellenberg. Although Blessed Chaminade lived in a time of Christian persecution, he still spread the faith and listened to God’s vocation for him.”
Mrs. Strauss noted, “I found the Mass to be a terrific reminder of how blessed we are to be a school in the Marianist tradition. Fr. Chaminade, along with Blessed Adele, exemplifies courage and strength. The Mass was a beautiful way to commemorate their lives!”
This Mass was a wonderful opportunity for students and faculty to reflect on the vocations of Kellenberg’s founders.