The Show Choir performing for the staff and students in the WAC to preview their competition performances. The Irish Adrenaline and Adrenaline Rush both competed at Center Grove the following weekend.
Photo by Emma McGuiness '27.
MEGAPHONE
Executive Editors
Camila Jackson '26
Mary Murphy '25
Sports Editor
Ben Kauffman '26
Reporters
Yohali Castro '26
Jennifer Velazquez '27
Yackelin Castro '27
On the back cover
Senior Abby Beasley steps up to the free throw line against Heritage Christian. The team won 43-34 and Beasley scored 6 points in the victory.
Photo submitted by Ryan Helmen '26.
Faculty Moderator
Mr. Marc Quaranta Principal
Mr. Mark Matthews
School President
Dr. Robert Bridges
High School CEO’s
Cathedral’s New Club is teaching students how to run their own businesses.
Entrepreneurship and business is one of the fastest growing industries in the world. Over the last few years young people have become more and more involved in business and building businesses of their own. With social media, NIL, and more the opportunities for high school students to gain money, the opportunities are endless. One of the ways Cathedral is helping foster this is with a new club focused on student run businesses.
High School Hustle is being run by business educator and DECA advisor Mr. Jeff Giles. Giels said, “High School Hustle is a business competition where kids spend the first three to four months planning a hustle or side business for the summer. Kids will plan their business and meet with consultants a couple times a month between January and May. Then in June is when the actual competition starts. All the competition is making money through your summer hustle and see what kid has the most revenue over the summer.”
Giles continued, “It’s a great experience for kids not only in practical business but in entrepreneurship as well and coming up with an idea. The Students starting their business will not only be trying to win the competition, but will be gaining valuable experience in the business world. Students will have the opportunity to look at what the challenges out there are, look at the challenge and ultimately find solutions to the challenge and form a business on that solution. Solve the problem and make money from it. I think it’s a great chance for kids to look at new things through this lense and think outside the box and at the end of the day see how many sales we can get and if we can get income through this.”
Students starting their business will not only be trying to win the competition but will be gaining valuable experience in the business world. That is part of why class of 2027 student, Aiden Ernsberger, joined High School Hustle. “I decided to join this because I feel as if it will help me in whatever career I choose in the future.”
Fellow member of the Class of 2027, Christian Browning, joined the club for
similar reasons. “I feel like any chance at doing something in business gives me experience and something like this can have a large impact in my business future.”
High School Hustle will also give students an opportunity to be mentored. Outside consultants will be helping students with their business and giving them advice. Mr. Giles believes this is one of the most valuable parts of the competition saying, “We’ve got consultants from multiple different industries that are working with us that have very successful business. So it’s not just me consulting students as their teacher with my business background, but with consultants in all types of industries.”
These mentors also provide students at Cathedral a chance to make connections that otherwise would not have existed. Being able to work with successful people in business across all different kinds of industries is invaluable to all students looking to join business.
Browning is looking forward to the idea of having these mentors. He said, “Business is mostly about connections and knowing people and we have a great opportunity with these guys. Whether it’s with our hustles now or later on in business these mentors will be very helpful.”
Giles hopes High School Hustle is another way to teach business to students. While not everyone at Cathedral takes an entrepreneurship or business class, High School Hustle can still teach students these skills with a more hands on approach.
Giles said, “High School Hustle is entrepreneurship, and when you’re talking about entrepreneurship you’re getting all aspects of business. In Intro to Business, we teach broad business concepts and we have very specific courses with accounting and we have an entrepreneurship class but with High School Hustle and running a small business, you’re getting all of that. You’re learning marketing, you’re learning advertising, you’re learning about accounting, sales, revenue all this through your hustle.”
Right now the students in High School Hustle are just planning their businesses, but as the end of the year and summer
BY BEN KAUFFMAN
The DECA Club competed at the District Competition where they tested their business skill and had 23 out of 27 students advance to the state competition. The advancing students will compete at SCDC DECA State Competition on March 2nd at the Marriott in Indianapolis. Photo from Cathedral Facebook.
approaches it will be time to start their hustles. Soon, students around Cathedral will have different types of summer hustles hoping to make the most revenue throughout the summer and win the competition.
Aiden Ernsberger has already decided on his hustle. He said, “This summer I have decided to run a lawn care company with a few of my friends. I think doing this will help jumpstart me into understanding more about business at a young age.”
Christian Browning is still thinking about what his business will be this summer. He said, “I’ve got a couple of ideas but I haven’t fully decided on what I’m doing yet. Once I figure it out though, I’m looking forward to getting started and finding ways to make money.”
Giles is looking forward to the club and is ready for any and all that are interested in the club. He said, “Come to High School Hustle, come get registered if you’re interested. We have 123 kids but we’re happy and hoping to get more. I’d love to get half the school, if we could get 600 kids in the club and be excited about entrepreneurship, that would be great.”
Second Semester Starts with New Principal
Mr. Mark Matthews took on the Principal role in early January.
BY MARY MURPHY
Cathedral High School is welcoming its new Principal, Mr. Mark Matthews, who jumped into his role of Principal in early January. With a strong background in education and a very deep connection to Catholic values, Matthews is ready to lead the school to bigger and better things. Matthews has been in and around the Cathedral community for many years now. When hired back in 2017, Mark Matthews was a Social Studies teacher. He had been working at Carmel High School for 17 years prior to Cathedral, teaching U.S History and being the chair of the Social Studies Department. Matthews attended college at Indiana University. Soon, he eventually went back to school to get three Masters degrees. His first was from Indiana State in Education with an emphasis on English. He has an MA from Ashland University in American History and Government. Lastly, he also has an MA from the University of Notre
Dame in Educational Leadership.
Matthews is very dedicated to his family life. His wife, Beth Matthews, was in the first Cathedral class that included girls. Matthews said, “She was set to go to Ladywood St. Agnes for her freshman year, and when it closed and combined with Cathedral here on the Hill, she joined the first group of young ladies. We actually met each other next door at Fatima Retreat House on a retreat when I was a Senior at IU and while she was a cardiac nurse at St. Vincent Hospital.” The Matthews went on to have 12 kids. Matthews has many gifts and characteristics it takes to be a Principal. Dr. Rob Bridges, President of Cathedral said, “His skills and talents are many: a history buff with an abundance of knowledge on so many historical things, especially U.S. History and anything Catholic. He coached and taught for 33 years in public schools, and with 12 kids of his own, he
certainly knows how to relate to young people. To me, his top two qualities are his faith and his integrity. He says what he does and does what he says, and it normally is excellent. I cannot think of a better person to be our Principal!”
In his free time, Matthews loves to read. It is common for him to have three books going at a time. He said that he tries to read something professional, something spiritual, and something just for fun. He said, “I usually read about seventy books a year.” He goes on to say, “I love learning and consider myself a lifelong learner. Honestly, I'm interested in just about everything. I love being able to go into classrooms at Cathedral to see what our students are learning, and I often find myself being absorbed in whatever the class is doing.”
Matthews is also a big sports fan always rooting on Notre Dame, Colts, and Pacers.
Mr. Mark Matthews and some of his family stand in front of the Cathedral community to receive an Irish Blessing. A Mass was held in the WAC and the Cathedral students and staff welcomed Mr. Matthews into his new position as Principal with a blessing. Matthews said, “I'm here to support all of our classroom educators, support staff, and students in their faith life too.”
Photo submitted
Matthews is very involved in his faith life. His strong Catholic values play a big part in his new role as Principal.
He said, “My Catholic faith has been the most important part of my life for as long as I can remember. I love starting the day with prayer and Mass. I'm here to support all of our classroom educators, support staff, and students in their faith life too. I hope to be able to continue working with our Holy Cross Council, Father Jomy and Father Geoff, Brother Matt, and Mr. Dave Neeson as we all work to make Cathedral the best Catholic High School. I hope that I can live my life in such a way to help lead others to Christ, and that includes everyone at Cathedral.”
When Mark Matthews was hired at Cathedral, he knew two things. He wanted to teach at a Catholic High School,
and he knew Cathedral was the best high school in Indiana. He has done a lot in his time here on the Hill. He has taught AP U.S. History, ACP U.S. History, Academic U.S. History, and Sports History. He also served as Co-Director of Humanities and Vice Principal for Academics. When it comes to becoming Principal, Matthews never imagined that to be part of his life plan. He said, “Being Principal at Cathedral is actually not something I ever dreamed would happen. As Vice Principal, I had lots of experiences doing things that are required of a Principal: working on accreditation, teacher hiring and evaluation, academic offerings, support of SIT, support of campus ministry, writing grants for Cathedral, and meeting with our leadership team weekly to make sure we can support each other.” While already in a
leadership position, Matthews was well prepared for this new role.
Mark Matthews has made many connections in and around the Cathedral community over these past years. Religion teacher Cece Kasberg said, “Mr. Matthews has been an inspiration to me since he came to Cathedral. I remember being really glad when he went from the classroom to the administration hallway to be Vice Principal of Academics. He inspires me to be the best version of myself both as an educator and as a practicing Catholic because he leads by example and is someone who truly sees his job as a vocation or a calling.
Mr. Mark Matthews and his entire family pose for a professional photo. Mr. Mark Matthews has twelve children and multiple grandchildren. They spend lots of quality time together. Matthews said, “My wife and I got married a year and a half later after we met and will celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary this summer in France.”
Photo submitted
Two Novices and Their Journey
Two novices visited Cathedral for a month in preparation for entering religious life, a life-long journey that included many ups and downs.
A novice is a member of Holy Cross who is in the process of preparing for a life dedicated to their faith, but they’re not quite priests or full-fledged brothers yet. During this journey, they get to experience different ministry opportunities all across the country. Some may find themselves in schools, while others might spend time at churches or parishes, and even at universities or colleges, where they can observe and learn from those who have also chosen the path of religious life. At Cathedral, two of its very own educators have chosen that religious life and were working in helping two novices in their preparation; math educator, Father Geoff Mooney, and math and religion educator, Brother Matt Rehagen.
During the month of January through early February, two novices, Nathanial and Nicholas, visited Cathedral as part of their faith preparation. They began each day at Cathedral with morning prayer followed by Mass in the school's chapel. After that, they spend their school day, speaking with students about their faith and participating in various activities with them. They wrap up each day with another prayer before going home, where they have some time to do anything they wish. However, they often come back to Cathedral for any sports matches or other events the school is hosting.
Father Geoff Mooney, a priest and Algebra teacher at Cathedral, plays a key role as a mentor for Nathaniel and Nicholas on their journey at Cathedral. He said, “I noticed their willingness and desire just to jump right into things, so I admire their courage and commitment to be among ministry and school and education.” Behind the scenes, he ensures they are well-supported and informed about their daily schedules. Midway through their month-long stay at Cathedral, Father Geoff held a formal meeting with each one of them, where they reflected
on their experiences, shared challenges, and celebrated their successes. Together they discussed whether these particular ministries resonate with their future aspirations, or if they might find other paths within the Holy Cross that speak to them.
Nicholas’ journey towards his faith begins right at home with his five siblings. As the oldest of 3 sisters and 2 brothers, his upbringing played a big role in shaping his devotion to Christ. Growing up in a Catholic family and attending Catholic schools throughout his life, laid a strong foundation for him. It sparked his desire to seek a deeper connection with God, wanting to really know Him personally and find out how he could serve Him best. Recalling his parents encouraging him to explore different ways of getting to know God better, he commented that they shared with him that while he could love God wholeheartedly, there was a unique path open to him, one that didn’t involve marriage but could lead to the priesthood or a religious life dedicated to serving God.
This idea started to blossom in his mind during his transition from middle school to high school. Nicholas faced a period of turmoil after moving from Corvallis to Portland, Oregon in the 8th grade. Yet, in the midst of that disarray, he found moments where he felt God’s voice cutting through the uncertainties he was experiencing. Even though he still loved God deeply, he put those thoughts aside and tried to have an ordinary high school experience. Not quite ready to fully accept that calling just yet, he kept pushing it to the back of his mind. However, the question of his vocation lingered on during his college years at the University of Portland, where he studied history and Spanish. It was always calling him to reflect on his future path.
Being a freshman in college in March of
BY CAMILA JACKSON
2020 marked another moment of disruption as COVID hit, yet it became an opportunity for God’s presence to shine through. During that period of quarantine, Nicholas engaged in deep reflection and prayer, embracing his faith more fully and responding to the call he felt within his heart. He said, “This was another period of disruption and weirdness in my life, but another opportunity for God’s ways to kind of come through more clearly for me.” Upon returning to college, he participated in a faith leadership program at the University of Portland and sought guidance from a spiritual director, who helped him unpack his fears and doubts while clarifying his calling to religious life.
Graduating in 2023, he joined the Congregation of Holy Cross. He said, “Part of the reason I chose that religious community as opposed to the other programs, was that I was really drawn in and inspired by the way the men lived together and how they had a lot of a common purpose in the mission, and how they lived as kind of a family together. It reminded me of the way that I had grown in my family at home.”
Nicholas was able to visit various religion classes to share his story and also any advice he has for any students discerning a religious vocation. He shares that the most important thing to do is to prioritize prayer. To thoughtfully consider such a vocation, an individual must cultivate a close relationship with God, as prayer is a powerful means to hear His voice and understand His calling. He emphasizes that even amidst life’s ups and downs, it is essential to remain faithful and place oneself in God’s presence, allowing Him to reveal His desires for your life. He said, “You have to be prayerful, you have to be willing to take time out of your day and discipline yourself so that you have space for prayers and so that you can hear His voice and be able to follow it.”
After leaving Cathedral, Nicholas aspires to complete his novitiate and take his first vows. His long-term goal is to discern well while attentively listening to God’s voice, whether it leads him through formation to ordination and priesthood, what he believes is his calling, or down a different path. He said, “If He leads me into another direction, I willingly and freely follow that path and kind of live the sanctity that He wants from my life, whether that looks like being a husband and a father or a priest and a religious.”
Nathaniel's, Cathedrals second novice, story begins in middle school when he first considered the prospect of religious life and the priesthood. It was during high school that his faith journey truly took flight. As a sophomore, he faced essential questions that challenged his beliefs. He said, “I wanted to know why I was Catholic, why I was going to church, why I believe what I did, and if I truly believed it, how I could authentically live it out?”
Initially, his understanding of God was basic and simplistic. However, as he went deeper into his Catholic faith, he discovered that everyone has a personal and loving God who desires a genuine relationship with each person. This realization prompted him to grow in his relationship with God through prayer which he recognized as crucial in discerning a religious vocation.
During this time, the call to religious life and the priesthood grew more pronounced within him. Like many of his peers, he experienced FOMO (fear of missing out) regarding a “normal” life, He decided to set his calling aside temporarily, intending to revisit it later. After graduating high school, Nathaniel felt unsure about pursuing college, so he decided to take 2 gap years while continuing homeschool studies. During these 2 years, he spent a summer abroad with a scouting program, and ultimately decided to attend Mount Saint Mary's University in Maryland, where he studied economics, French, and German while competing on the cross country and track and field team.
Through daily Mass, confession, and participating in the Sacraments, his faith
continued to deepen. Throughout his freshman, sophomore, and junior year in college, he entered into a serious relationship with a girl he had met there. They discussed significant life decisions, including marriage and family, however that calling he heard continued to linger in his mind, something that could potentially shift the relationship he had with her. In the spring of his junior year he traveled to Guyana in South America, where his experiences with the local people helped him encounter Christ in a new way. Upon his return to the United States, COVID struck, and he and his girlfriend had an honest discussion about his feelings regarding religious life. Encouraged by her, he officially began exploring the various religious communities, including the congregation of Holy Cross.
After graduating college in 2021 with a full ride scholarship, Nathaniel spent a year and a half in Madagascar, where he taught English, trained teachers, and immersed himself in the local culture and language. He said, “Living in Africa was incredibly challenging physically, emotionally, spiritually. It truly pushed my boundaries, and I cherished every moment, both
the good and the bad. It was there that I deepened my relationship with God.”
Upon returning to America, Nathaniel knew he was called to a religious vocation, prompting him to enter postulancy. There, he met Nicholas and other classmates, where he began a year of philosophy at the University of Notre Dame. In August, he transitioned into the Novitiate, where he and Nicholas have been for the past 5 months.
Regarding his time at Cathedral, Nathinel expresses his enjoyment in getting to know the students and is impressed by the dedication and support from the faculty. He said, “I appreciate that Cathedral has a strong sense of identity and isn’t afraid to express it, which is especially commendable for a Catholic institution.” After Cathedral, he will return to the Novitiate for 6 months before taking his vows in August. He plans to return to Notre Dame for 4 years to study theology and ministry, honing his skills to serve as a priest. Cathedral staff and students wish them luck as they carry on in their journey in entering the religious life.
Religion educator and a member of the Holy Cross Formation team, Mr. Cannaday, leads the Irish Blessing over Nathaniel and Nicholas on their last day at Cathedral. The last part of their journey at Cathedral was watching the show choir's performance in the Welch Activity Center.
Photo by Emma McGuinness '27
Bidding for Changes
Cathedral
High School hosts the 48th annual Shamrauction with a theme of “Its Electrifying.”
BY YACKELIN CASTRO
For the past 48 years, Cathedral’s annual auction has been more than just a fundraising event. It has been a deeply rooted tradition that unites the community together in dedication to the school's mission. Shamrauction is a cherished tradition within the Cathedral community, embodying the generosity, support, spirit, and dedication of the Cathedral families, alumni and supporters. Hosting events like this auction has demonstrated Cathedral’s commitment to nurturing hearts and minds of every student who walks past its doors.
Mackenzie (Starks) Bower '11, Director of Strategic Partnerships said, “This event is so special because of all the support we have in our alumni and families. They understand the mission of Cathedral High School.”
This auction is about more than donations, President Dr. Rob Bridges said, “I have been a part of Catholic school auctions for most of my life. My dad helped start the auction idea at my school growing up, St. Francis High school in Traverse City Michigan.” To Dr. Bridges and many others, it’s more than just the donations. Shamrauction holds a special significance; it offers those within the Cathedral community a special experience traditional fundraising events couldn’t give. It’s a special experience for members who participate in Shamrauction, as they get to help transform Cathedral one bid at a time.
Shamrauction is truly a special event, made possible by the remarkable generosity and tenacious support received from Cathedral’s incredible alumni and families. For the past 48 years, the dedication and generosity of these supporters have been vital to the key success of Shamrauction, guaranteeing growth and relevance. Their outstanding commitment has been essential in sustaining this valuable Cathedral tradition, allowing it to flourish year after year. This continued support not only helps Shamrauction to thrive further, but also strengthens the deep connections
with members of the Cathedral community, creating a tradition that is endless and growing in significance with each passing year. The important influence of Shamrauction continually leaves a significant impact behind. One that enriches the lives of students, alumni, and families while molding the pathway for the future generations that are to come.
Shamrauction auction will begin on February 14th and follow up until February 22nd. The silent auction went live at noon, Friday the 14th of February and closed down on February 22nd at 10:30pm. The silent auction gives participants the opportunity to place bids before Shamrauction begins. The main auction takes place in the Welch Activity Center, and the silent auctions help build anticipation and thrill building up to Shamrauction. Mrs. Bower said, “The event is open to everyone! We encourage you to invite your friends and family. However, we kindly ask those who wish to support the event to consider purchasing a sponsorship or table.” Bidding can be done directly through guests' phones.
To participate in the silent auction, guests need to register through a link, which will send them an invitation to start their bidding process prior to the actual event. The 22nd will be the actual auction in the gym, where participants will be able to participate for a change.
This event is hosted annually for a new opportunity to make a difference in the lives of all Cathedral students. Bower said, “By giving, you’re not just making a donation; you’re investing in the future of a student and the legacy of Cathedral. Every gift, large or small, helps us continue to fulfill Cathedral's mission”. All due to the generosity of many families, members, and supporters, Cathedral is able to provide $2.6 million in tuition assistance. Every passing year is fueled by generosity and assistance, it allows every student to receive the best education possible. This opens doors to greater opportunities, paving the way towards a brighter future for students.
The posters and logo for Cathedral's 48th annual Shamrauction with a theme of Its Electrifying. A poster for a night to remember. Photo from GoCathedral.com.
Mrs. Bower said, “this event is so special because of all the support we have in our alumni and families. They understand the mission of Cathedral High School.” Due to events like this, new projects are expected to take place. Cathedral is able to strive and grow in many unimaginable ways, whether it’s from one project at a time or one bid at a time. Cathedral's and its students' futures are in the hands of those who cherish the Cathedral community.
Students are given the opportunity to volunteer and support their Cathedral community throughout the school year. Many choose to volunteer for various reasons, including gaining service experiences and simply just loaning out a hand. By giving back to the community, students are able to show their appreciation and gratitude for all that Cathedral has done for them. Help handed by students plays a crucial
role in Shamrauctions success. Without the generosity and kindness of students, this tradition wouldn’t be alive today. Shamrauction's special guests get to see students sharing and spreading kindness outside of the classroom. They get to witness students showcasing their talents and qualities through service. Guests can see how well Cathedral has shaped their students through the years into respectful, remarkable and diligent students, inside and outside of a classroom.
As the event nears, the halls come alive with tradition and spirit. Decorations are carefully placed, hanging throughout the school, creating anticipation for this special event that’s to come. It creates a sense of excitement and thrill to all those stepping into the gym where change will be made possibly one bid at a time. Having decorations put up is a fun way to bring together the Cathedral com-
munity through hands-on activities. Dr. Bridges said, “I know of many people who are past-parents who still volunteer as a way to support the school's good work. In short, the event is a 'fun' raiser and a 'fund' raiser.”
As Shamrauction nears, Cathedral undergoes a remarkable transformation. The entire school is decorated, nearly making it unrecognizable. This day holds so much significance that students receive an E-Learning day, due to all the time and preparation needed to make Shamrauction possible. The Welch Activity Center, which usually looks like a normal gym, is transformed into an unrecognizable room where changes will take place one bid at a time. Every moment of this event is filled with excitement and anticipation. This day is a celebration for tradition, spirit, and changes.
The Show Choir rehearses one last time before taking the stage during Shamrauction. The group performed several hit songs from the movie "Grease" during the dinner portion of the event.
Photo by Anna Moore.
From The Page to The Stage
For the 2025 Spring Musical, the Cathedral Theatre, who calls themselves CaTheatre, brings together with lots of excitement: The Hunchback of Notre Dame
At Cathedral High School, the entire student body is involved in some type of student activity. For some students, time is spent on sports, while others enjoy and share their love for the theatrics.
Students at Cathedral who are a part of the theater club annually host a spring musical. Two years ago, the theater performed Spongebob SquarePants and the year after, they performed Big Fish! under the direction of Jordan Fox, Director of the Theater Department, CaTheatre has started their preparations for the Hunchback of Notre Dame.
The choice for Hunchback to be the spring musical, was an easy one. Fox said, “Hunchback has always held a very special place in my heart and I think we can all look at Esmeralda’s character and strive to be more like her”. Fox continued to say that the Hunchback of Notre Dame “takes a hard look at those who portray themselves as good and how they may not always be what they appear”, believing that this is something to be listened to and reflected upon.
Cathedral's spring musical is the biggest event of the entire year for the theater. The preparations taken to perfect the performance begin months before opening night. Cathedral students audition before their winter break in December, with some of them having received small parts of the script and/or lyrics to rehearse. These song lyrics were received from Marian Bender, Cathedral's Dhoir Director. Fox and Bender are currently working together to prepare a schedule for the music to be used in the spring musical. Both directors agreed that Cathedral’s show choir would take the role of the church choir in the musical. Fox also invited Cathedral teachers to be a part of the same choir “to give it an even more powerful sound”. Fox not only
BY YOHALI CASTRO
invited teachers and the show choir to this musical, but also hired a professional Wig Designer, a Fight Choreographer, and a Special Effects Artist. The goal of all of these additional integrations into the musical is because Fox doesn’t want the musical to be cartoonish. Instead, Fox said, "I want it to be real, honest, and make people think."
For students in the CaTheatre, rehearsals have already begun. Students stay for after school rehearsals from 3:30 to 5:30, alternating days from musical and blocking rehearsals. Fox said, “It takes hundreds of hours to put together a show." During these after school rehearsals, students practice memorizing their lines, dance numbers, and their music and block rehearsals. Although the choreography rehearsals are slim due to there only being 2 dance numbers in the entire musical, CaTheatre participants work hard to perform to the best of their ability, like one
student in particular, Susannah Ferris, a Junior at Cathedral High School. Susannah Ferris said, "It never feels like something I’m forced to do, it is lots of fun, so I actually look forward to it.” Like Susannah, many other Cathedral students share this same experience.
The CaTheatre takes their time with after school rehearsals, making sure that there is enough time spent in preparation for the best possible performance. In addition, for this year's spring musical, Fox hopes to make a brillant show, meaning that the school's show choir, teachers, and hired professionals will participate. Because of this, there must be more rehearsals to be done than the past years. Ferris said, “At first it was a bit difficult to imagine, but with all the work the entire cast is putting together, I think Mrs. Fox has done a great job!”
The cast and crew for the Rookie Showcase performance "Oz." With the Rookie Showcase, directed by junior Amia Funches, over with the spring musical is the only remaining performance for the 2024-2025 school year.
Photo by Joellen Desautels
With all the work every student, staff, director, and others have poured into this year's musical so far, you can only imagine how brilliant this musical will be. One very important student in the musical this year has anticipated this musical for years.
Easton Gogel, a current senior at Cathedral High School, has been chosen to play the lead role in the Hunchback for the first time in his entire theatre career. Gogel who plays Quasimodo said, “It feels amazing to get a lead role… it feels good to finally be the main guy.” Gogel hopes to be able to play the role of Quasimodo so that the Cathedral community may see how amazing both Quasimodo and the actor are. Gogel said, “I hope to simply represent the beautiful character to Cathedral High School and also to show people my skills especially in terms of singing because of how difficult the music is.”
The character of Quasimodo is “a very misunderstood character, his ugliness makes him seem like he is a monster. Once you see his actions and how he just always does things for others you realize what a beautiful mind he has,” said Gogel passionately. The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Fox said “holds so much truth and power behind it. It is a story about truth and justice and doing what is right, even when it comes at a cost.” Gogel said the Hunchback "is one of Disney’s best works that doesn’t get the right appreciation. It’s a story that resonates with both kids and adults because the themes are so useful to both age groups.” With such an inspirational purpose, the theater program has truly begun to put their blood, sweat, and
tears into this show. Fox said, “Come see a show that is entertaining and walk away empowered to be a change agent! The
Hunchback of Notre Dame is a show not to be missed!” The show opens up on May 1st and runs through May 4th, 2025.
The flyer for this year’s spring musical, the Hunchback of Notre Dame, show just how early production on this performance began. Easton Gogel as Quasimodo, Lucy Lindner as Esmerelda, and Sammy Moffatt as Frolo, are just a few of the cast members that were announced earlier this year.
Photo submitted.
A Fresh Start for a Passionate Cause
A group of students restart Cathedral's Pro-Life Club, bringing with it a new passion to spread awareness.
A group of students have revived Cathedral High School’s Pro-Life Club, aiming to educate their peers, support struggling mothers, and take action through community service and activism. Despite challenges, the club’s founders are determined to create a lasting impact.
At Cathedral High School, students are constantly finding ways to bring their passion to life. One freshman, Tyra Ordones Hernandez, saw an opportunity to do just that when she realized the school did not have a Pro-Life Club. Motivated by her faith and the belief that all lives deserve protection, she took the initiative to start the club, with the help of her resource teacher and Cathedral educator, Claire Kloska.
“I thought to myself that maybe there should be one,” Tyra Ordones Herendez explained. “So, I went and asked my teacher, and she said, ‘Absolutely!’”
The Pro-Life Club’s mission is rooted in the belief that every human deserves the right to life no matter how small. While the club mainly focuses on issues surrounding abortion, it also aims to raise awareness about other social issues, such as human trafficking, sexual abuse, the struggles of immigrant families. The goal is to create a supportive environment for those in need while educating students about the values of their faith.
Co-founder Sophia Ehinger, also a freshman, shared her motivation for helping reestablish the club after it was disbanded during COVID-19. Sophia Ehinger explained, "I was motivated by the idea of creating a legacy for this club and the chance to open up new minds to various topics.”
Starting the club was not without its challenges. Tyra Ordones Hernandez faced some negative comments but remained focused on her mission. Tyra Ordones Hernandez stated, “I ignored those comments because, at the end of the day, I am advocating for those who don't have
BY JENNIFER VELAZQUEZ
This delicate yet powerful illustration is the club official poster promoting its mission of protecting the unborn and supporting mothers in need. The artwork features a baby cradled in gentle hands, symbolizing care, faith, and advocacy. A rosary weaves through the image, emphasizing the club’s strong connection to faith and prayer. With the message “Save our babies to save our nation,” the poster encourages students to join and take a stand for life.
submitted.
a voice.” Despite the difficulties, the club quickly gained interest among students, making the process of recruiting members much easier.
The club meets once a month on the first Friday and hopes to increase meeting frequency in the future. Meetings include discussion about topics such as abortion, misconceptions about topics such as abortion, misconceptions about the Pro-Life movement, and ways to support struggling mothers. Members also brainstorm ideas for fundraisers and future service projects.
Sophia Ehringer explained that their goal is to create an open discussion. She said,
“If anyone has doubts, they can ask, and we will do our best to provide the answers they are looking for." The club wants all members to feel welcome and encouraged to share their thoughts, even if they are unsure of where they stand on certain issues.
Beyond discussion, the Pro-Life Club is focused on action. The group is planning to push to attend national and local marches, including the annual March for Life in Washington D.C. Tyra Ordones Hernandez said, “Marches allow us to stand together and show support for what we believe in.” They also plan to partner with local churches to help mothers facing crisis pregnancies by providing resources and emotional support.
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While the club is rooted in Catholic values, Sophia Ehringer emphasized that it is open to anyone who is willing to learn and be part of the cause. Sophia Ehringer said, “This club isn’t about judging others, but about educating, helping, and spreading awareness."
The club also presents leadership and service opportunities for students. Sophia Ehringer pointed out that joining the ProLife Club can be beneficial beyond personal beliefs. Sophia Ehringer explained, “Being in this club shows bravery for being open to this topic and demonstrates leadership by joining something that is just getting started.”
Looking ahead, the club has ambitious long-term goals. They hope to raise enough funds to expand their outreach, support more families, and eventually organize their own service initiatives. While they do not currently have awareness campaigns in place, the founders are eager to build a strong presence on campus and in the broader community.
Tyra Ordones Hernandez and Sophia Ehinger remain hopeful about the club’s future. They recognize that conversations around pro-life issues can be difficult, but they are committed to creating an environment where students can learn, grow, and take action. Tyra Ordones Hernandez stated, “We want people to understand what being pro-life truly means and why it’s important to us.” For students looking to get involved, the Pro-Life club welcomes anyone interested in learning more or supporting the cause with strong leadership from its founders and a growing group of dedicated members, the club is set to make a lasting impact on Cathedral's community
Tyra Ordones Hernandez ended by saying “The Pro-Life club isn’t just about discussion—it’s about action. We want to help mothers support families, and stand up
Tyra Ordones Hernandez and Sophia Ehringer, the passionate founders of Cathedrals Pro-Life Club, smile for a photo as they continue their mission to advocate for life. Their dedication to supporting mothers and educating students has brought new energy to the club. With their leadership, the group is growing and preparing for future events, including marches and service projects. Together, they are building a movement that stands for faith, compassion, and action.
