First Day of Classes & the Mass of the Feast of the Assumption

August 15

Blue Jays returned to Carrollton & Banks this week, filling the halls with blue and khaki as they hurried to classes, their excitement evident throughout campus.

“It was truly a joy to have so many smiling faces back on campus today,” said principal Jeremy Reuther ’01. “I am proud of the work that our faculty has done to prepare for the year, ensuring we get the most out of our students and support them as they develop as men of faith and men for others.”

Students began the first full day of classes with a meaningful spiritual experience—the Mass of the Feast of the Assumption. Due to ongoing construction in the Chapel of the North American Martyrs, the Mass was held in Benson Arena.

Fr. John Brown, S.J., and Fr. Stephen Kramer, S.J., celebrated Mass, eloquently sharing the Catholic belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, was assumed into Heaven, body and soul, rather than undergoing physical decay. This teaching highlights Mary’s special role and reminds us of the hope of eternal life for all believers.

The choir enriched the liturgical experience with their beautiful hymns, while the MJROTC members, dressed in their formal blues, added to the atmosphere of reverence and dignity.

Starting the school year with Mass was a powerful reminder that as students embark on their academic journey, they should carry forward the lessons of the Feast of the Assumption, striving to be men of faith so that they can grow into men for others.

First Morning Assembly

August 16

New and returning Blue Jays made their way to the Traditions Courtyard to gather for morning assembly, marking the commencement of another promising academic year. The new Senior Director of Evangelization, Jess Laurenzano, welcomed the students and began with a prayer followed by a speech from principal Jeremy Reuther ’01. His address laid the foundation for what promises to be a meaningful and enriching year.

In his speech, Reuther not only welcomed new students and faculty but also inspired the gathered Blue Jays to look past their youth in their relentless pursuit of God’s greater glory, invoking the story of the prophet Jeremiah.

“God called to Jeremiah in the same way he calls to each of us now as we begin this year: ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I consecrated you, a prophet to the nations I appointed you,’” said Reuther. “At these words of deep intimacy with the Lord, Jeremiah shrinks from God’s invitation, saying, ‘I am not ready. I have nothing to say. I’m too young.’ Perhaps we all have a little of this belief within us as we begin our year together. Perhaps you are a little afraid to be who you truly are in God’s eyes. Perhaps you’ve let others who put you down to make themselves feel better convince you of your value. You are infinitely valuable. That is how we, the faculty, strive to see you—as God does.”

Reuther continued, imploring the students to create opportunities to serve others and engage with their families and community. He encouraged them to think of their time at Jesuit not just as preparation for their calling but as a time to actively live their calling.

He finished with, “Do not say I am too young. Let us together make this the best year yet for building up the kingdom of God at Carrollton & Banks. I have full confidence that you can do it.”

Announcements were read by Student Council President Wilson Frischhertz. Following the assembly, students met all their new teachers and reconnected with friends, excited for the journey ahead.