Then and Now

Having frequent flyer miles and the loan of a car, I was able to accept the gracious invitation of the Class of ’72 to attend the 50th Anniversary of their graduation from Melbourne Central Catholic. I decided to drive from Tampa to Merritt Island and go along the beach route to enjoy the view of the ocean. However, all the hotels, cottages, parks, and stores obscured my vista. I realized almost immediately that from Merritt Island to Melbourne Beach, the coast had been discovered over these 50 years and there was no going back to the tranquility of 1972. This was confirmed when I drove over the causeway and saw Melbourne’s expansion. Little was recognizable, at first, and then more and more became familiar.

I have been in contact over all these years with Fr. Sean (Brett) Duggan, OSB ‘72 and we went together to the Hilton. I hoped and prayed I would recognize the 67–68-year-olds who were 18 when I last saw them but then again, I wondered if they would recognize me who was also 50 years older. It took only a short time to get reacquainted and to remember our time at MCC. The planning committee did an excellent job giving us a key ring with MCC’s logo, decorating the dining room, making all the arrangements, and showing a video of us in times gone by. Seeing pictures of Sisters Marlene, Mary Joan and myself, the only sisters still active currently, was a bit startling. However, the joy and happiness of being together between graduation and the anniversary just melted that feeling away.

I drove to the school for mass on Sunday. As I made a left turn on Florida Ave, I was not sure I was on the right street. Where were the cows? They were replaced by a shopping mall. Where was the one entrance? It was augmented by several gates. Where was the self-contained building? It was increased by other beautiful structures including sports fields. President Nick Regina gave us a wonderful and thorough tour of the buildings and campus. I was in awe and grateful of all that has happened over the years.

Most of us went to mass at the beautiful serene new chapel. We had a choir, a guitar player and beautiful music. The mass was celebrated by MCC Chaplain Fr. Vince Wirtner and Fr. Sean gave a simple and sincere homily. I was extremely glad to see the Franciscan theme and symbols all over the school that is dedicated to St. Francis and named after the founders of MCC, the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany, New York.

What more can I say? I left with such gratitude for all the past and present faculty, staff, and students. I was overwhelmed by the growth, the spirit, and the mission of Melbourne Central Catholic and truth to tell for having been there in the early days establishing the foundation on which it has flourished so wonderfully.

I close with the blessing of St. Francis: “May the Lord bless you, may the Lord keep you, may the Lord smile upon you and give you peace.”