S eptember 2 2 , 2 0 0 9
Opening of School Mass & Awards Presentation
T
he Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, Bishop of the Diocese of Norwich, was principal celebrant and homilist at the Opening of School Mass in the Arthur M. Kohs gymnasium. Bishop Cote quoted St. Augustine as a central theme in his homily, “Forgive and you will be forgiven. Give and it will be given you. These are the two wings of prayer on which it flies to God. Pardon the offender what has been committed, and give to the person in need.” He challenged the students to do more than just succeed academically, pointing out their need to grow as members of the community. Con-celebrants were Reverend Gregory P. Galvin, director of Vocations for the Diocese of Norwich and Reverend Phil Sharkey, Pastor of St. Rita Church in Hamden. Reverend Kevin Reilly was the master of ceremonies. Headmaster Brother Brian Davis, C.F.X. thanked Bishop Cote for his continued support of Xavier High School and Catholic education throughout the diocese. He also welcomed and thanked benefactors and families who were present for their contributions to Xavier. CJ Kowaleski ’10, Vice-President of the Student Activities Council, also added thanks to Bishop Cote and Brother Brian.
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Xavier Today
“Forgive and you will be forgiven. Give and it will be given you. These are the two wings of prayer on which it flies to God.” — Bishop Cote
He pointed out the “fast start” that the school has gotten off to. He told the freshmen “You may think that four years is a very long time, but it will go by much faster than you think.” He also presented the Bishop with a wrapped gift from the student body. Bishop Cote said “I asked him what it was. He told me I’d have to wait and be surprised later.” We are all hoping it was something he’ll appreciate and enjoy. At the end of Mass, Academic Dean Mr. Andrew T. Gargano, announced the names of this year’s scholarship and award recipients. Headmaster Brother Brian Davis, C.F.X personally greeted and congratulated each student as he presented them with their award.