TBJ F5: October 25th
The Top Stories from the Week Every Friday - Presented by the Blue Jay Newspaper
HIT YOUR STRIDE: MR. REUTHER ENCOURAGES JAYS AT THE START OF THE SECOND QUARTER
Principal Jeremy Reuther ’01 challenged students to approach the second quarter with intention, sharing a story from his days as a sprinter. Mr. Reuther recalled sprinting out early in a memorable race, only to fall behind from exhaustion—a reminder of the importance of pacing and focus. Using this as a metaphor, he urged students to "hit their stride" by actively engaging in academics, spiritual life, and personal growth. “Do not be passive,” said Mr. Reuther, “In your spiritual life, don’t say you are too young to have an intimate relationship with the Lord.”
Watch Mr. Reuther’s full speech on YouTube.
KEVIN LAGRAIZE NAMED GIZZARD ULTIMATE CHAPMPION: AIMS TO LEAD GIZZARD AGAINST JOHN CURTIS
Given to the most rowdy member of the Gizzard, the Gizzard Ultimate Champion belt carries with it a weight of responsibility to lead the student section in the next game to even greater heights of rowdiness. This week the mantle of responsibility falls to senior Kevin LaGraize who was instrumental in leading the Gizzard in the Karr game. “Pink Out” is the theme for Friday’s bout against the Patriots of John Curtis. Be sure to follow LaGraize’s lead as the Jays look to notch a crucial district victory.
Follow all the actions from the Gizzard tonight on Jesuit’s Student Life Instagram page.
MEMORIES FROM MATSUE: MR. TROSCLAIR’S RECOUNTS HIS JOURNEY TO JAPAN’S SACRED SHRINES
Mr. Trosclair ’07 recently visited the Grand Shrine of Izumo and Japan’s city of Matsue, New Orleans’ sister city since 1994. While on a cultural exchange trip with the Japan Society of New Orleans, Mr. Trosclair learned about the shared history and cultural exchange between the two port cities, both known for their scenic waterways and vibrant festival traditions. This past Thursday, Mr. Trosclair shared stories from his journey, including insights into Matsue, during lunch in the Madonna della Strada building. Students were invited to bring their lunch and join for a rich discussion on Japanese culture and connections to New Orleans.
Read more about Mr. Trosclair’s annual excursions here.
JAYS HONOR THEIR MOTHERS AT THE ANNUAL MOTHER-SON MASS AND BREAKFAST
The Mother-Son Mass and Reception gives Blue Jays and their mothers a chance to reflect on their special relationships. Due to ongoing construction to the Chapel of the North American Martyrs, this year the Mass was celebrated at Immaculate Conception Jesuit Church on Common and Barrone St. Fr. Anthony McGinn, S.J., pastor of Immaculate Conception and Jesuit’s former president, was the principal celebrant of the Mass. At the following reception, there were two speeches given by seniors honoring their mothers. The first was given by twins Cameron and Joseph Colletti, who were followed by Brady Mullen. All three emphasized the role of their mothers in forming them into the men God is calling them to be.
Click here to view the full gallery of the Mother-Son Mass on Flickr.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION AND UNDER THE STARS: MARTYRS’ FEAST SEES CHAPEL NEAR COMPLETION
This year’s celebration of the Feast of the North American Martyrs, the namesake of Jesuit’s third floor chapel, was largely celebrated in silence as the renovation of the sacred space continues. Nevertheless, there was cause for celebration as the chapel’s stunning new ceiling, which displays New Orleans’ night sky as it appeared 2,000 years ago on the night of the Resurrection, was installed. The design of the star-clad ceiling was mapped out under the guidance from the Vatican observatory, which is under the direction of New Orleans native Fr. David Brown, S.J. The chapel also features newly commissioned portraits of the North American Martyrs by local artist Jac Warren. The Jays are looking forward to the day when they can honor these great saints in the newly renovated chapel.
Check out more photos of the renovation on Jesuit’s Instagram page.