St Stephens Academy - Academician Yearbook (Port Huron, MI)

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In keeping with the tradition of offering the first Stephen students unite their prayers with those of Mass of the school year to the Holy Spirit, Saint Father DeMars, to the Giver of Strength and Wisdom. 11

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Singing the Mass brings to life the liturgical spirit Francine Malane, junior organist, sings the Propers and plays the accompaniment for the student body ' s singing of Mass XII. Participating in the Sacrifice of the Mass prepares us for the day ' s struggle. To be on time for the eight o ' clock Mass represents a willing sacrifice on the part of each individual. Many of the students come from out- of-town areas: Emmett, Goodells, Wadhams, Lexington, Lakeport, Marysville, St. Clair, and Sparlingviile. In accordance with our Holy Father ' s wish that Cath- olics throughout the world take a more active part in the celebration of the Holy Sacrifice, the student body sings the morning Mass, accompanied by the organist. Many students also receive Holy Communion, thus fully participating in divine worship. It is customary for many during lunch hour to slip into church for a short Eucharistic visit. At the cru- cial times of football and basketball contests, they are joined by the entire student body in publicly re- citing the rosary. On certain occasions, such as retreat, closing of May, and Holy Hours, Benediction of the most Blessed Sacrament is given. These events, especially the three day retreat given by Father Raymond Ellis during Pas- sion Week, are of special significance for the seniors, many of whom earnestly endeavor to make this last high school retreat their best. Encouraged by the words, “He who sings, prays twice, the jun- iors and seniors participate fully in the praising of God at Holy Mass. Laudamus te. Benedicimus te. Adoramus te. Glor- ificamus te, sing the students as they kneel in adoration. 10

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At the close of the Mass, Father DeMars gives the Lord ' s last blessing to help us in the day ' s work. With the aid of Jody Platzer, Father Edward DeMars dis- tributes Holy Communion. To bring strength to their souls, Judy Rossi, Pat ricia Pattinson, Mary Lou Gibson, and Frances Twiss receive the precious Body and Blood of our Lord. Michael Zwolinski and Richard Fawcett await the opportunity to avail themselves of this grace. The recitation of the rosary forms an important part of our student body offers this tribute to our Lady in the presence daily worship. During the months of Mary, May and October, the of the Blessed Sacrament, following the eight o ' clock Mass. 12