Cathedral Preparatory School - Literulae Yearbook (Erie, PA)

Page 8 text:

The Most Reverend John Francis Whealon has shown a great interest in Prep since his arrival early in 1967. He has brought with him many of the progressive ideas of youth and a multitude of talents. His Excellency is noted as a scholar, teacher, Biblical expert, linquist, administrator, and, perhaps most important to us, one who understands young people. His years as a teacher and rector of a seminary have gained for him this very neces- sary and vital understanding. Bishop Whealon is a light to guide the way for the students of Cathedral Prep. He is yet another from whom we can learn to prepare ourselves for life as adults in a world in which his noble examples can give us the strength we need to do what is right. Youth is, perhaps, one of his most appeal- ing characteristics especially for teen-agers, who can more easily identify to one who is nearer to their own age. His Excellency is truly a voice crying in the wilderness to make ready the way of the Lord, and it is the young men of Prep who must hear his voice and must follow his ex- ample if they are to compete in the ultimate adventure-to know Christ.

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A' 225742225 FGREWCJRD The driving force of the American nation has always been the quest for adventure. Beginning with the hazard- ous voyage of Columbus and continuing forward to in- clude the perilous undertakings of space exploration, the American people have sought out danger and courted her for no other reason than that it was an adventure. Together with the search for excitement, Americans have always been willing to tempt fate to advance their country. With their firm belief in the ultimate success of their undertakings, the American people have always been characterized by this almost arrogant self-confi- dence. The phrase, Fortune favors the bold, has be- come more than a belief-it is an American fact. Each student must eventually pass into the adult world and leave forever behind the fond memories of an ad- venturous youth. However, this period was but a prepar- ation for a still greater enterprise in the future. The ad- venture of life is infinitely more alluring, more exciting, and more fascinating than ever the dreams during youth could make it seem. The real adventure is just about to begin with the same magnitude and importance as the voyage of Columbus or the space walks of the astronauts. It is up to the youth of today to carry on these tasks and advance the prestige of themselves and their nation. This is truly the adventure of life.

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Realizing the necessity of promoting Catholic secondary education in the Diocese of Erie, Archbishop John Mark Gannon founded Cathedral Prep in 1921. He has seen the school expand from a few rooms beneath the Cathedral to the modern complex of seven buildings that make up the institution of Prep as it is today. With keen insight, he has provided for the academic and athletic development of the school. Financially, he appropriated funds for expansion in 1944, 1955, and in 1964. Under his fatherly guidance, Cathedral Prep has risen to the status of one of the best college-preparatory schools in the state. During his 50 year tenure, he has repeatedly stood as a magnificent example to the students as the pillar of responsibility, experience, knowledge, and profound per- sonality. His Excellency's interest in the welfare of the student body has been demonstrated innumerable times through his informal visits, primary concern, and paternal attitude. We, the students of Prep, owe immeasurable gratitude to this great person. l Since his consecration in June, 1965, Bishop Alfred Mich- ael Watson has remained close to the students of Prep, and has worked with them on many occasions. The bishop has had a rather long relationship with the school going back to 1925 when he was a member of the first graduating class. He returned in the '40's as an English teacher, advisor to the Senior Class, and an assistant head- master. Now, as auxiliary bishop of the Erie diocese and rector of St. Peter's Cathedral, he still finds time to preside at various school functions, and when other duties prevent his appearance, we can always be sure that he is there in spirit. His Excellency is the first bishop to graduate from Cathe- dral Prep and therefore is unique among the alumni of our school. He is a man of great drive and a constant example to the Prepsters of today. He truly exemplifies the type of religious leader we need in the world. 5