On August 28, 2026, the Holy Spirit Catholic School Division gathered at the Catholic Central High School Campus for its annual Division Opening Mass—a cherished tradition that brings staff, clergy, and guests together before the halls once again fill with the energy of students.
More than simply marking the beginning of a new school year, the celebration offered an opportunity to pause, reflect, and remember who we are and why we are here.
Bishop William T. McGrattan presided over the Mass and invited those gathered to consider a question at the heart of Catholic education: What is our identity, and how do others come to know us?
Drawing inspiration from the lives of St. Augustine and his mother, St. Monica, the patron saint of mothers, Bishop McGrattan reflected on the powerful witness of a life rooted in faith. Their story reminds us that faith is not always passed on through words alone. It is revealed through perseverance, love, example, and the way we live our lives.
That same call to witness lies at the heart of Catholic education.
Reflecting on St. Paul’s relationship with the Corinthians, Bishop McGrattan highlighted Paul’s understanding of his own mission. Paul recognized that his purpose was not simply to baptize, but to proclaim the Gospel—to make Christ known.
“Paul showed the Corinthians that the purpose of his presence was not that God wanted him to baptize them, but to share the Gospel,” Bishop McGrattan shared. “That is what Catholic education is.”
His words offered a powerful reminder to everyone gathered: our work extends far beyond curriculum, classrooms, and daily responsibilities. Every interaction is an opportunity to be a witness to the Gospel. Catholic education is about creating spaces where young people can encounter Christ, discover their God-given identity, and come to understand that they are deeply loved.
A Year of Possibility
Before the Mass, Board Chair Linda Ellefson and Superintendent Chantel Axani shared a glimpse of what lies ahead for Holy Spirit Catholic Schools in the coming year.
There is much to anticipate.
The opening of St. Kateri School marks an exciting new chapter for the Division. The Divisional Pow Wow will provide an opportunity to celebrate culture, community, and connection. The Bishop’s Assurance Pilot will support continued growth and reflection across the Division, while work toward establishing new Board Priorities will help shape the path forward.
The transformation of the Father Leonard Van Tighem Catholic Technical Studies programs also promises new opportunities for students to explore their gifts, skills, and futures.
Each initiative represents something larger than a list of events or projects. Together, they speak to a Division that is growing, discerning, and embracing new possibilities while remaining grounded in its Catholic identity.
And perhaps that is the rhythm of a new school year: moving forward together while remembering what keeps us connected.
The Division Opening Mass reminds us that before we can begin the work of teaching and learning, we must first remember who we are.
We are a Catholic education community called to witness.
Called to serve.
Called to walk together.
And, above all, called to share the Gospel through the way we live, lead, teach, and love.
As the 2026–2027 school year begins, Holy Spirit Catholic Schools steps forward with faith, gratitude, and hope—ready to discover what this next chapter will bring.