Before heading into Christmas break, the Prep community gathered for an Advent Mass. With Vox and the Prep Band setting the tone, the gym was filled with the joyful hope that marks this transition from Advent to Christmas.
Fr. John Mullin, S.J. explained, “Hope is more than optimism about the future. Pope Francis says…hope is an anchor that we hurl toward the future. It’s what lets you pull on the line that reaches what you’re aiming for. Hope gives a person deep-rooted confidence in the love and care of God, no matter what is happening.”
Photo Gallery: 2022 Advent Mass
The hope of Advent and the promise of Christmas, Fr. Mullin continued, is that God is with us, always. Armed with this hope, we can meet life’s challenges with courage. “It’s best to see things that come our way, not as bad luck, not as good luck, but as opportunities for God to show his love for us, because it is our hope that God will bring good out of everything.”
A Special Presentation
Another highlight came in the form of a surprise presentation for longtime faculty member and Director of Financial Aid Fred Galano, P’22. As Prep President Michael Gomez, Ed.D., ’91 explained, “Fred Galano…has been and continues to be a gift to Saint Peter’s Prep, working and really serving many families for over 15 years here. He is a difference maker. Last Saturday, Mr. Fred Galano, was ordained a priest in the Episcopal Church, and is now Fr. Fred Galano.”
Dr. Gomez and Ms. Trish Fitzpatrick presented him with a stole on behalf of the Prep community. “When you wear it, please remember that you are truly our pride and our glory,” Dr. Gomez said.
After Mass, two more cherished Prep traditions continued: the premiere of the Prep TV Studio’s Christmas video, and the presentation of Prep Spirit Awards.