Oct 4, 2010

September 21 was a day of grace, fellowship, and joy for the Academy as our family gathered at the Alario Center in Westwego for a youth rally and Eucharistic celebration to mark the local visit of St. John Bosco’s relic.  The once-in-a-lifetime event was attended by more than 2,500 students from the Academy, Archbishop Shaw High, and other area Catholic schools.  Archbishop Gregory Aymond was the chief celebrant and homilist and the Eucharistic celebration. 
          
The relic is on a worldwide tour as part of the Salesian community’s preparation for the bicentennial of St. John Bosco’s birth in 2015.  In addition to its appearance at the Alario Center, Don Bosco’s relic was also brought to St. Rosalie Church, St. John Bosco Church, and to Immaculate Conception School for veneration on September 20 and 21.  By the time local veneration was completed late in the evening on September 21 at St. John Bosco Church in Harvey, thousands of West Bank area residents had taken advantage of the opportunity to see and touch the inspiring relic of the patron of youth, St. John Bosco. 

Please scroll down to see various pictures from this wonderful celebration.

 

AOL students show the power of song during Mass.

Sr. Maria thanks Archbishop Aymond for being a part of the celebration.

Students and faculty view the relic of Don Bosco.

Sr. Michelle shows her enthusiasm during the celebration.

AOL students participate in the choir during mass.

Archbishop Aymond delivers a powerful message to the students.

Megan Dufrene leads the students in prayer.

Shaw students show their support for the Salesian Ministry.

AOL seniors show their unity as they pray the Our Father.

Mrs. Kumpf receives Communion from Archbishop Aymond.