Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger will celebrate a Mass marking the start of national Catholic Schools Week in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany on Sunday, Jan. 28, at 2 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Albany. Catholic school educators and community partners will be honored at the Mass. (Attached is a complete list of this year’s awardees.)
Among those to be honored this year is John Barber, Head Coach of the Holy Trinity Pride football team, which consists of students from both Notre Dame-Bishop Gibbons and Catholic Central High Schools. Barber led his team to their first NYS Championship Finals this past year, all following the tragic fire that completely destroyed the team’s field house and equipment the season before. Other awards to be distributed include the Distinguished Principal Award, Teacher of the Year and School Staff Awards, among others.
The unveiling of the Annual Diocesan Art Show at the Empire State Plaza, South Gallery, will immediately follow the Mass. The celebration of Catholic Schools Week and the art exhibit together allow the 22 Catholic schools of the Albany Diocese to tell their stories and share their talent. Student artwork will be on display through Feb. 3.
“It is a celebration, indeed!” said Giovanni Virgiglio, Superintendent of Schools. “Each year during Catholic Schools Week, we take the time to celebrate and honor those who embrace Catholic education in the Albany Diocese in an extraordinary, selfless way. We shine a light on those who play a critical role in making Catholic education possible.”
National Catholic Schools Week has been celebrated annually since 1974 with special liturgies, open houses, and other activities that highlight the importance of Catholic education. The theme for 2018 is “Catholic Schools: Learn. Serve. Lead. Succeed.”
CONTACT:
Kathleen Yanas
Catholic School Office
518.453.6676
Mary DeTurris Poust
Communications Office
518.453.6618