For the sixth consecutive year, the Kellenberg varsity volleyball team has been at “the top of their game” both on the court and in the classroom as they were just named recipients of the AVCA (American Volleyball Coaches Association) Team Academic Award.

In the national announcement that was published at the end of July, awards director Alice Rogers commented, “This award honors teams who have matched their dedication to the sport of volleyball with excellence in the classroom. Meeting the award standards is an accomplishment of which your team can be proud.”

Dating back to the 2014 season, the Lady Firebirds have been selected for this prestigious recognition, and last year’s squad kept the streak intact. The sixteen players on the roster were as follows: Emily Acimovic, Caleigh Boody, Maggie Caffrey, Krista Handler, Carly Kane, Samantha Lombardi, Leah Marchisotto, Rebecca Meier, Julia Merz, Reilly Minnigan, Caitlin Monaghan, Meghan Monaghan, Teresa Moulder, Julia Piotrowski, Alyssa Romeo, and Megan Watson.

Be sure to catch the 2020 Lady Firebirds in action when the fall season begins at the end of September.

On Friday, September 11, 2020, the Town of Hempstead’s annual 9/11 Memorial Service held at Point Lookout took place in a safe and socially distant manner. The annual event is Long Island’s largest 9/11 memorial service. As in years past, musical accompaniment for the ceremony was provided by Kellenberg Memorial’s Gregorian Consortium, the high school’s liturgical choir ensemble.

Members of Gregorian assembled before sunrise where the 30-foot steel relic of the World Trade Center stands today. Fr. Michael Duffy, Rector of St. Agnes Cathedral, lead the invocation following Town of Hempstead Supervisor, Donald Clavin’s welcome remarks.

“To be able to come back and display my love of God through music while remembering those we’ve lost is a blessing. I am grateful for every opportunity that allows me to do so. The ceremony was beautiful,” shares alumna Christelle Pascal ’18.

Junior Rino Monteforte ’22 shared, “In today’s world, with all its craziness, it was truly amazing to see hundreds of people gather to support each other and mourn together the loss of those who died during the attacks on September 11th, 2001. Listening to the words of all the speakers, their reflections, and the roars of applause from the people standing by their cars—it reminded me that we all can be united and together as one nation. And the opportunity to sing here at this beautiful Memorial for my second straight year is just special. It makes me feel good to know that the way we sing gives joy to people that may not be having the greatest of days.”

Senior Emma Carmody ’21 remarked, “It is always a blessing to be able to sing for the 9/11 Memorial Service— to share with all gathered in the remembrance of those who lost and gave their lives that September day. After so much separation these past six months due to COVID, the sense of community and love for our country felt even greater than in past years. My dad is a firefighter and was a first responder at 9/11, which makes this beautiful service all the more special to me.”

This marks the 15th time the Gregorian Consortium has assisted in memorializing the lives lost 19 years ago in Manhattan, Washington, DC, and in Shanksville, PA from the attacks on September 11, 2001.

Article by Newsday’s Roger Rubin:

Every kid who grows up with a football envisions turning in a performance that leaves a crowd chanting his name.

Maximus Mongelli of Kellenberg has an idea what that might look like from watching the 2000 film ‘Gladiator,’ but he didn’t get the authentic experience on Sunday after a series of stellar receptions led the host Firebirds to a 37-29 win over Chaminade in the teams’ featured 7-on-7 Catholic High School Football League game.

The CHSFL isn’t admitting spectators because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Mongelli, a senior wide receiver, caught 12 passes for 101 yards, three touchdowns and a one-point conversion for the Firebirds. He made four fourth-down receptions that went for touchdowns or first downs.

Read the full article on Newsday.com: https://www.newsday.com/sports/high-school/football/chaminade-kellenberg-7-on-7-football-1.50047389

In a reimagined celebration of the annual Rosary Prayer Service, Kellenebrg Memorial celebrated the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary on Thursday, October 8th.  To commemorate this important feast day in the Church, rosary beads were provided to each student by the ARK. Led by their Religion teachers, student cohorts had the opportunity to pray the Rosary together, either in their classroom or outside on a walk around campus.

Freshman Scripture teacher Mrs. Peggy York, ’03 commented, “Being at Kellenberg, with our Marian devotion, I found it so fitting that our first spiritual activity for the Freshman was to pray the Rosary.  It was so wonderful to be able to gather, socially distanced, as a Freshman class. I loved that we were able to show our new students some beautiful locations of the school while praying to our Blessed Mother.”

Ava Harkin ’24 reflected, “The Rosary walk was an experience that definitely gave every student a sense of relief. It helped us take a break from the stress of schoolwork and focus on how much God is protecting us during the pandemic. I really enjoyed the Rosary walk because it helped me realize how important prayer is and how it can get us through this hard time.”

Emma Pensato ’24 added, “Being able to safely see and pray with other classes was special because although we are in the midst of a pandemic, we still can find a way to pray together.”

All students have been encouraged to keep their rosary beads in their backpacks, not only for their own prayer life, but also to participate in “Mini Faith Fridays.” Many of the Religion teachers have been sponsoring Mini Faith Fridays in class as a time of reflection, mini-retreats, and a way to nourish our students’ spirituality. 

Mr. James O’Brien explained, “Praying the Rosary together is one of the great ways we can show the students that we are here to educate not only their minds but their hearts as well.”

On the evening of Friday October 23rd, members of the Kellenberg Memorial community gathered together for an evening of praise, worship, and fellowship, marking the first XLT of the 2020-2021 school year. This occasion was a particularly joyous one, because it was the first XLT that has been held since March 11, 2020. No one knew during that final XLT what the next few months would hold, let alone that it would be the last time the community would be able to gather in person and in prayer together for a long time to come. But in spite of social distancing, the closeness of this community and the joy that was expressed by all was truly something to behold.

Mr. Eric Harnisch explained, “It was a very special XLT for our students. To be able to be back gives our students some sense of closure after everything stopped so suddenly last spring and to once again be able to be a part of an event they love so much.” 

With the XLT Band and Gregorian Consortium in full force, under the direction of Mr. Matthew Bursig, the evening’s tone was set with great music and an atmosphere of prayer. Mr. Bursig shared, “We were so blessed to be able to join together in a special night of prayer, song, and community. I was so proud of our musicians as they brought their talents and faith to XLT and of their devotion to Christian music and Eucharistic Adoration.” Many of the clubs and organizations at Kellenberg have had to resort to remote meetings, to ensure the safety of the community at large. But preparing and rehearsing for a performance this way is no easy task. Mr. Bursig elaborated, “We only were able to hold a few virtual meetings and had very limited rehearsal prior to the event.”

In addition to wonderful music, Mr. Shaun Moran ’04 was the guest speaker. Sharing his heart with the students and parents of the Kellenberg community, he expressed the true gift we have in the Eucharist. And after so many months of having to be without Mass, his message resonated with all present. 

“Events like this, during these special times, are important,” Mr. Bursig remarked. “Although we have to be socially distanced, we don’t have to be distanced from our faith. And although our friend or neighbor may be 6-12 feet away, we are still sharing in the community of love, faith, and support for each other. That is Kellenberg. That is the Church.” 

Article by Hailey Pitcher, ’21:

Kellenberg Firebirds walked into school on a brisk September day, socially distant and with smiles on their faces, eager to get back to in-person learning by adopting the “cohort” classroom structure.

Also offering remote and hybrid learning opportunities, Kellenberg welcomed back in-person learning with socially distant cohorts. The Latin School and grades 9-11 are enrolled in classes with about 25 of their peers. Teachers rotate in and out of classrooms to minimize exposure to COVID-19. Students are allowed time outside of class to socialize, have lunch, and take a breather from their hard work in class.

Students have responded tremendously well to the new environment. They cooperated with protocol and still achieved the same enthusiasm within classes.

“At first, I was nervous that it was so different, but everyone adjusted very quickly,” says freshman Shanik Nunez. “The teachers are great. They’re super friendly and helpful. In a way, the cohorts help us all have a deeper relationship with each other.”

“This year, I’m really enjoying my Spanish class,” exclaims ninth-grader Cole Curtis. “I like everyone in my class, so it’s been easy to meet new people! Right now, I only know around 1% of my peers, but by the end of the year, I hope to know 100%!”

Kellenberg’s seniors are making use of the auditorium, cafeteria, and gymnasium in larger cohorts. As with their underclass counterparts, seniors’ teachers rotate in and out of classes, which are given lecture style. The cohorts are larger, seating about 60 students while still socially distant. Seniors are following safety protocol while also enjoying their final year in the Firebird community.

“In my auditorium cohort, I have the opportunity to learn a subject lecture style from different teachers,” says Meaghan O’Keefe ‘21. “The switching of teachers every day gives me a break from a monotonous routine, but also the privilege of acquiring varying perspectives on the same subject.”

Students are still given the option to switch to remote on days they cannot make it to classes. “If I’m feeling ill or I’m absent someday, I don’t need to worry about falling behind on classwork or quizzes. I can do it all from home.” senior Faith Schwartz remarked.

Overall, the school community is delighted to get back on a routine. With an amazing faculty, eager students, and a positive attitude, the Kellenberg community is ready to handle the current situation with responsibility, perseverance, and, most of all, hope and faith.

Article by Mary O’Connor ’21:

During the months of July and August, the teachers and faculty of Kellenberg Memorial ran over 85 free virtual courses to students in the Latin School and High School for Firebirds stuck at home this summer.

Courses ranged from academic, in which students would broaden their knowledge on topics taught in school, like Mr. Beyrouty and Mr. Huggard’s “Grammar Boot Camp,” activities based, in which students would explore different interests they would normally join a club for, such as Mrs. Farrell and Mr. Murphy’s Drama course, Apostolic geared to enrich the faith with courses like Mrs. Harnisch’s Girl’s Bible Study, and athletics focused to keep future Firebirds fit for sports seasons, like with Mrs. Strauss’ Girls Volleyball course.

Students were quick to sign up for as many courses as they could. Senior Isabella Rajkovic participated in over five courses.

“I enjoyed them all and was very surprised with how much I got out of learning outside of the curriculum.”

Fellow senior Frank Rizzo also emphasized how valued these courses were to him during the time of strain this summer.

“I thoroughly enjoyed each mini-course as they served as breaks from the stress of COVID-19 and allowed me to expand my knowledge in topics I find interesting. The student body was very thankful and involved. Everyone participated and was engaged, and it was a lot of fun.”

Colin Donnelly ’21, a member of the Science Olympiad Team at Kellenberg, used the many science-based summer courses to further expand his understanding of how the world works, joining in both “The Physics of Everyday Life” with Mr. Ditrano, and a course specifically for Science Olympiad with moderator and teacher Bro. Nigel Pratt, S.M. Colin particularly enjoyed learning from these courses about the physics behind sound and water systems.

Many students found, not only the courses themselves to be a joy this summer, but the interaction between faculty and fellow students that took place through these Google meets and Schoology conferences.

“Sustainability and Growth of Plants” with Ms. Sindone, Ms. Vigario, and Mrs. Mulligan, was an encouraging course.

“The sustainability group we had was so inspiring, “ remarked Isabella Rajkovic. “There were some underclassmen, even in the Latin School, who were already making huge changes in their communities and at home, and there was always an educational conversation. Everyone pitched in their two cents of their sustainability knowledge.”
The students of Kellenberg gained more than just extra knowledge this summer and are grateful for the teacher volunteers and administration who made this possible.

The Kellenberg Memorial 2020-2021 school year has brought its many changes and alterations. But, it has also brought a great deal of ingenuity and creativity to continue traditions and activities that are near and dear to the community at large. One of these Kellenberg traditions: School Masses. Through the dedication and leadership of our school chaplains Father Thomas Cardone, S.M., Father Daniel Griffin, S.M., ’02, and the Director of Apostolic Activities, Mr. Bryan Finn, ’96, socially distanced masses for students began a little over two weeks ago.

When asked about the importance of continuing with School Masses, Father Tom remarked, “Our Union with Christ in the Eucharist is a fundamental relationship for believers. It is through relationship that we as a faculty draw students to Jesus.  With Mass, the kids are in relationship with Christ and with each other.” 

Mr. James O’Brien added, “By this point in the school year, students would have attended a school dance, taken part in an Evening of Recollection, and participated in a homeroom competition. We are trying to find creative ways to develop this camaraderie and family dynamic that Kellenberg introduces to students.” And in a time of being socially distant, creating relationships and fostering community has never been more important. 

Bridget McLaughlin, ’24 shared, “I am very grateful that I had the opportunity to participate in Mass under the tent. I enjoyed praying with so many of my classmates, and being outside was a refreshing change of atmosphere. It was a reminder of how thankful I am that Kellenberg is still providing us with great opportunities to grow in our faith. I love how Kellenberg is about not just learning the faith but living it out.”

In searching for a theme for School Masses this year, the newly beatified Blessed Carlo Acutis seemed like the perfect choice. Father Tom explained, “We thought he would be a good witness to our teenagers to help them grow in holiness through the love of the Eucharist. Blessed Carlo was a regular kid: a soccer player and a genius when it came to computers. He used technology in a positive way to communicate and to evangelize. As a Christian, he was prayerful and considerate and would visit churches to pray and recite the Daily Rosary. Blessed Carlo was tied very strongly to Mass, Adoration, and the Eucharist. I think for us, we traditionally look for themes that capture the spiritual imagination of young people.”

Mr. Bryan Finn stated, “I am so grateful to Father Tom and Father Dan for presiding over 30 masses so far for our KMHS students and staff.  Since the Eucharist is the source and summit of our Faith, we have a responsibility as a Catholic school to nourish our students’ souls. In this time of COVID, we have the choice to be bitter or better. Jesus had every opportunity to be bitter but He made the choice to make the world better. The ARK’s goal is to make our students better through receiving the Body and Blood of Christ.”

The Kellenberg Model United Nations (KMUN) team kicked off their year with the 22nd Annual University of Connecticut Model United Nations Conference.  UCONN digitally hosted hundreds of delegates from across the United States, all representing their countries best interests.  Delegates debated a wide range of topics ranging from Climate Change, the Dark Web, and even the 1994 Rwandan Genocide.

After three days of long, vigorous debate and diplomacy, a resolution was passed in all of the 25 committees that were held.  The KMUN team sent twelve of our experienced delegates into uncharted waters after receiving our first invitation to the UCONN Conference this year.  Even without knowing what to expect, our delegates thrived under pressure and adapted effortlessly to the challenges that they faced.

The entire team did an outstanding job.  Congratulations to Edward Jansen and Jake Truncale for receiving the Best Delegate awards in their respective committees and to Sarah Rao for being nominated for the Betty Hanson Award, the highest award given at UCONN.  Next stop for the KMUN team is a virtual trip “across the pond” to the University of Oxford next weekend.  Let’s Go KMUN!

Article by Nicholas Cortese ’23:

In an effort to mitigate the effect of Covid-19 on student athletics, Kellenberg Memorial has converted its football team from the traditional eleven on eleven tackle football squad into a seven on seven flag football team.

On Sunday, October 25th, The Firebirds took flight in a matchup against longtime rival Chaminade Flyers. The hard-fought battle resulted in a high scoring victory for Kellenberg. The team moved to 3-0 after a 37-29 win that was highlighted by 5 touchdowns facilitated by quarterback Ethan Greenwood’s offense. Three of Ethan’s passing touchdowns were sent in Maximus Mongelli’s direction and the other two went to Mike Gilliam and Jaden Lyons.

Commanding wins like this serve as major momentum boosts for the team, intensifying their passion for the game. Players know not to slow down and to keep playing their best football. At quarterback, Ethan has done an outstanding job at reading the defense and finding the open receiver. He believes a large part of his success is due to the fact that the defense has been limited to only 7 players instead of the usual eleven. Ethan elaborated by saying, “When there are fewer defenders it slows the game down because there is no one coming to tackle me.” Ethan displays his high football IQ in every match, cementing himself as a necessity for Kellenberg triumph.

However, Ethan is not the only breakout offensive star. Wide receiver Maximus Mongelli has accounted for touchdowns in each of the last three games and registered a season-high three touchdowns against Chaminade. Maximus knew from the jump that he would be a threat to the opposition.

“I played for a travel seven-on-seven league this past spring so I was already used to playing this way,” he states. “In fact, as a receiver, I get more of an opportunity during the games because there are no run plays, so every play is a pass play.” Maximus took this opportunity and ran with it, and he doesn’t plan on looking back. Keeping his eyes forward and always improving on his already stellar performances, he reminds us that hard work is the key to a consistent season. “We need to carry this momentum to practice each day and we will continue to produce well on the field.”

Both Ethan and Maximus have blossomed into vital pieces for Kellenberg’s prosperity. Ethan declared that he will utilize his hot start to help him prepare to tackle football’s return. The star quarterback proclaimed, “When it goes back to tackle football I will be more prepared, calm, and collected.” Maximus also looks towards the future, as he expresses how he hopes the game converts back to its original ways as soon as possible. Though it seems easier with fewer defenders on the field, Maximus points out how it isn’t quite as it seems. “The center only snaps and the quarterback cannot run, so it’s basically a seven on five which means it is harder to get open.” While it seems to be an irritating hardship, the Firebird receivers get over the obstacle pretty easily. Maximus continued by saying, “That hasn’t stopped our offense though. We haven’t had a problem getting open as you can see by the numbers we put up.”

Whether the game’s changes have been helpful or hurtful to players, some things just tend to stay the same. One of the more exciting things that came out of Week 3’s matchup was the rivalry displayed versus the Flyers. All the players agree that the fierce rivalry with Chaminade stayed evident on the field.

“The intensity of Chaminade games have never changed. We have always been going at it no matter if we are playing in pads or in a T-shirt and shorts,” said Ethan. A
Another aspect that can stick around is the idea of flag football itself. Maximus suggested that the current version of the sport can be used for people outside the team.

“I hope football goes back to tackle in the fall, but a good way to keep flag football in the mix would be if the school organized an intramural flag league with players, not on the team.”

No matter what the circumstances are, football remains a reliable pastime that Kellenberg continues to be a dominant force in. Even with the new restrictions, the players share a passion for the game and will play their hearts out in every showing. The changes that turned tackle football into flag football have so far been a success, and it looks to have an impact on the game for many years to come.

Article by Edward Jansen ’21:

With Kellenberg’s cohort strategy, students have been able to spend time with friends, get work done, and stay healthy. With this system, some of our clubs have been able to take place, whether it be virtually, outdoors, or in limited space.

Band is especially difficult in these dark times. Instructors have had to be more creative than those in other clubs, as practicing as a whole ensemble poses a health risk— saliva flying through a trumpet bell is not ideal. To sum up the current situation, we interviewed one of Kellenberg’s most renowned musicians, the legendary Samuel Millman. The band teachers have put together an unprecedented method of practicing, one in which students record themselves playing, as opposed to near-impossible virtual practices. Millman stated in an interview, “We have assignments to submit recordings, and it gives us a time frame to keep practicing.” MIllman continues, “Mr. Vegas is doing everything he can to make it seem normal with conferences and goals to meet for certain songs.”

Debate Captain Rob Nolan half-qualified for the Lincoln-Douglass Debate State Championship this past weekend on the team’s new digital platform. Part of the debate experience is being able to travel to different places, shaking hands with new friends and potential rivals. Is this atmosphere consistent over a computer screen? When asked about the new virtual status of the club, Nolan’s sentiments seemed to grasp the very core of our predicament: “I miss going to the different schools, but it’s nice to at least have something and see people.”

“The same goes for speech,” said sophomore Jake Truncale when interviewed. “Speech goes hand in hand with debate— whatever happens in one typically happens in the other.” Speech and Debate are both moderated by the esteemed Mr. Eamonn Cummings, master of language, and rhetoric. Despite the new environment, people have been able to communicate their best intentions and hold on to the essentials of these programs.
Aquinas League, a club centered around pro-life discussions, is a typical example of how Kellenberg is dealing with its new standards. When interviewed, Senior Emma Carmody said Aquinas League will be opening up in-person soon. “Although I always look forward to virtual meetings, there is nothing like real person-to-person contact.”

The Gregorian Consortium is also back in action. Devoted vocalist Kerrin O’Grady caught us up with the current situation, saying, “We’ve been having physical practices since October 21st, and as for Mass, we will be recording a live performance in preparation for All Saint’s Day.” Besides the 9/11 memorial service—which wasn’t a Mass—the group hasn’t played in front of an audience since last year.

Students can join clubs by getting in touch with either a teacher or a student moderator through the Remote Activity Portal at https://www.kellenberg.org/activities/remote-activity-portal/

Over the last few weeks, 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students of the Brother Joseph C. Fox Latin School participated in the beloved tradition of WITNESS Day. WITNESS Day began two years ago as a day of prayer and community, giving students the chance to enjoy a beautiful day outside and learn about different Witnesses to the Catholic faith. Like many of the school events this year, changes had to be made to make the event safe for all involved.  As a result, WITNESS Day became four separate WITNESS Days, split by grade division. The days’ itineraries were altered as well.

Father Daniel Griffin, S.M., ’02, Chaplain of the Latin School, explained, “Normally we would have started the day with the Grandparents Mass and Brunch. And then after the grandparents went home, the students would participate in games and activities with their homerooms. This year we had to limit the program, but we still wanted to give the students a day to get out of the classroom, bond with their homeroom, and spend some time in front of Jesus in the Eucharist.”

The day not only included games but lunch and prayer as well. Father Dan reflected, “I love WITNESS Day because it combines school spirit, love for our faith, and fellowship with classmates, teachers, and Jesus!  I remember as a kid always looking forward to Field Day. WITNESS day is Field Day combined with a Retreat Day!  It’s a day where we focus on the education of the heart!”

Ryan Papocchia ’25 shared, “I had a very fun WITNESS Day this year, considering all the precautions that needed to be taken. One thing I especially enjoyed was being able to see my friends that aren’t in my cohort. It was such a nice day to get out and enjoy being with one another.”

Tristan Lombardo ’25 added, “I feel that this year’s WITNESS Day was certainly different, but it was such a fun, enjoyable experience. We were able to have a good time while following the guidelines for COVID-19. It gave us a chance to be together and to play games for the first time in over six months.”

Retreats are in full swing at Kellenberg Memorial. Over the last few weeks, sophomore cohorts have had the opportunity to travel to Stella Maris, one of Kellenberg’s retreat houses, located off the Great South Bay in Islip, NY. For many sophomores, this was their first retreat experience at Kellenberg. Due to the pandemic, most of the freshman retreats were canceled last year. As a result, the ARK felt it was only right that sophomore retreats would kick off the year.

When choosing a theme for sophomore retreats this year, the name of the retreat house provided a wonderful choice. Mrs. Harnisch shared, “The theme for the retreats is ‘My Lighthouse – Our Lady, Star of the Sea,’ focusing on looking towards those who can lead us safely to shore, namely Jesus, Our Lady, and our spiritual guides like our parents and grandparents.”

The day’s itinerary is filled with a lot of fun and many opportunities to build friendships and grow in faith. Mrs. Trista Harnisch explained, “While at Stella Maris, we spend time together in fellowship, playing icebreakers and lawn games, participating in Mass together as cohorts, and ending the day with lunch. It’s a nice break from the normal cohort day, enjoying the fresh air and the quiet of the land. The ARK knew that it would be good to bring some normalcy to the students’ daily lives, allowing them some time just to be together and bringing them closer to their faith.”

Additionally, students have been getting to know two very special alumni, Father James Hansen ’07 and newly ordained Father John Crozier ‘11. Both Father John and Father James have been the “guest stars” of the retreats, celebrating Mass and creating fellowship with the students by playing games, sharing a meal, and hanging out around the Stella Maris fire pit. Gianna Tamburrino ’23, reflected, “During the retreat, I got the chance to learn more about my classmates. I really enjoyed the team-building exercises and games. But, my favorite part of the day was when I got to play corn hole with Father James and my friends.”

Katelyn Takes ’23 added, “My first retreat was a blast. The view of the lake was beautiful and the activities we did helped me to make some new friends. I can’t wait for the next one!”

This past Saturday, six scouts from Troop 87 ventured out to Schiff Scout Reservation in Wading River, NY to participate in the annual district Trek-O-Ree.

Scouts were instructed on backpacking equipment and preparation, completed a pioneering challenge, honed their map and compass skills, and topped off the day with a 3 1/2 mile hike.

This marked the first troop outing since February and brought the much-needed scout spirit back for these boys.

Article by Mary O’Connor ’21:

The week of October 18, Kellenberg Memorial began running sophomore retreats in the new retreat house, Stella Maris, for the 2020-2021 school year.

As with Kellenberg’s in-school system, this year’s retreats follow a special protocol to ensure the safety of Kellenberg students and staff. The retreat is limited to two cohorts at one time, traveling by two separate busses. Students bring their own lunches, and the retreats are held entirely outdoors, ensuring space for safe social distancing, and a beautiful atmosphere for spiritual reflection.

Every year, Kellenberg runs retreats because as a Catholic school, its mission is education of the heart and helping students grow closer to Christ. In taking time away from the regular routine of classes during the school day, and spending time in prayer and community, that mission is fulfilled.

“As a Catholic school, this is the reason we exist, to make Saints and lead people to Christ,” says freshman Scripture teacher,” Mr. Moran, ’04.

Special importance is placed on the retreats this year, as it re-energizes and refocuses students to better tackle the hard struggles this year poses by focusing on their relationships with their parents, friends, and God.

Kate Santi, ’23 spoke of her day on retreat at Stella Maris, “At the beginning of the day, we played a couple of games, then got ready for Mass. Brother Pat had us reflect on our spiritual lives and how our relationship with God matured throughout the pandemic. A Kellenberg alum said Mass, then we were able to have lunch with friends, and walk around the property.”

Kate closed her response by saying that her retreat was a great opportunity to connect with the people in her cohort and strengthen her faith.

Gabriella Sankovich, ’23 reflected on the themes talked about throughout her retreat, mentioning Brother Patrick’s reflection in which he used the image of a lighthouse to symbolize those people who hold a faith life together. This theme was repeated during mass by a Kellenberg alum in his homily where he, too emphasized the reliance on a light amidst rocky waters. “I believe that hearing Brother Pat’s story and the father’s homily helped to strengthen my relationship with God and I was able to take those stories and put them into my own life. I was also able to identify who the lighthouses are in my life” said Gabriella.

Not only were the retreats good time spent with God, but they also were an opportunity for students to talk with friends outside their cohort rooms. Alyson Breslin, ’23 spoke of her time playing games and talking with friends and said that the activities made her more connected with the other students in her cohort and her teachers, and Leah Tilocca, ’23 said that both she and her classmates felt their retreat day brought them closer together both physically and spiritually.

Alyssa Romeo, ’23 joined on some of these retreats by leading games and discussion groups as a senior helper. She said, “I wanted to help out because I personally look up to the seniors that have helped me in the past, and I will never forget their impact on me.”

She reflected on her own retreat experiences in Kellenberg, saying that though on her past retreats she had access to more resources, she found these most recent ones to be equally relaxing and equally beneficial in the faith journey of the students as the retreats from previous years.

Alyssa, too, was touched by the lighthouse theme. “This particularly struck me as I realized the teachers and people I have met at Kellenberg are my main lighthouses.”

Article by Angelo Tsassis ’22:

On Saturday, November 28, Kellenberg’s own Boy Scout troop, Troop 87, went on their first trek of the year to Schiff Scout Reservation in the Pine Barrens of Wading River, New York.

The troop participated in the annual district Trek-O-Ree. It was great to see the troop participate in their first outing since February.

Since the troop hadn’t interacted as a group in months, it was truly a welcome sight to see Troop 87 back altogether. The six scouts were able to participate in activities that helped them sharpen their skills, such as instruction on backpacking equipment and preparation, and a lecture on first aid. The group was able to work together as a group and gain teamwork skills while gaining valuable knowledge on important topics.

Some of the skills they learned was how to tie a tripod lashing and how to use their map and compass skills to their advantage. Following these fun activities was a difficult 3 1⁄2 mile hike. The hike was an extremely enjoyable experience for the scouts, as they hadn’t been able to partake in one since last February.

Freshman Thomas Scartozzi summed up how much the troop enjoyed the hike, and why. He said, “My favorite part of the trip would definitely be the hike around the camp. The hike really made us work more as a team and I think we can take away a lot from that hike as a troop.”

Over the course of the hike, the troop stopped at different stations to practice and learn new skills. Overall, the event was definitely different than it was in past years due to COVID restrictions. An example of this is that the troop’s interactions with other groups were limited greatly. Despite the restrictions, the trip was still a success for the group. Junior John Lauritsen says, “After months of not being together as a troop, it was great to do in-person activities again.” Instead of dwelling on past trips and wishing they could have been more interactive with other troops, the scouts were appreciative of the opportunity to be together as a troop after so much time apart.