Students and staff at Montini Catholic High School gathered for the Lasallian college preparatory high school's first Mass of the 23-24 school year on Friday, August 25th.  Father Shawn Cieslik of St. Mary of Gostyn Parish in Downers Grove celebrated Mass with the Montini community. "This year, practice 'sacrificing' - which is placing a burden upon ourselves to benefit others," said Father. "Vow to live the joy of the gospel this year and allow Jesus to fill your life with light."

The Mass also presented an opportunity to introduce and bless the school's newest Peer Ministry Team. (Montini's faith-based ministry team began in 2018 with a mission to inspire and motivate by example and to encourage students to engage in faith-based activities at school and in their communities.) All students comprising this spiritual team were seated in the front rows during the Mass and were asked to stand and pledge their commitment to their unique purpose as student leaders.

Faculty and staff members also renewed their own commitments to the students as well. As Lasallian teachers their role is to fulfill the mission set forth by the founder of Lasallian education, St. John Baptist de LaSalle, the Patron Saint of Teachers - to 'touch the hearts of students.' Lasallian schools are characterized by a 300-plus year tradition of relationship-centered education, special attention to the poor and marginalized, and devotion to the salvation of each student.

"A new school year evokes many different feelings and emotions," said Principal Tiritilli. "Some may find ourselves sad that our summer has come to an end, while others may be more excited to be back inside our great school. We enjoy seeing our friends, meeting our new teachers, and experiencing the next level of schooling. As we reflect on how we have grown and developed from last year to this year physically, academically and social/emotionally, consider the question, how have you grown spiritually? How have you grown closer to God? Each of us is on our own spiritual journey moving closer to God. Our teachers, staff and school community are here to provide and support you with many paths and resources to assist you in your own journey."

​Mr. Tiritilli continued with a challenge.  "This year, I encourage you to continue to work towards living each day, truly connected with and moving closer to God each day.​ I encourage you to focus on living a life of peace. Peace within yourselves, peace with one another and peace with the outside world that is filled with such conflict and division.​"