LINCOLN (SNR) – St. Michael School in Lincoln recently celebrated the feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael.
As students arrived at school Sept. 29, they were greeted by facilities manager Con O’Shea-Creal, dressed as St. Michael the Archangel in front of a balloon arch.
“St. Michael” handed out coins imprinted with inspirational verses.
“The story of St. Michael is an important story for kids to hear,” O’Shea-Creal said. “I’m happy to be a part of the excitement of this feast day.”
The celebration actually began the day before, with a Eucharistic procession. Assistant pastor Father Luke Fleck carried the Blessed Sacrament, with boys from the school in cassocks in procession. Students lined the halls as the Body of Christ passed.
Pastor Father Kenneth Borowiak and his dog Luna later made visits to classrooms and passed out treats.
Other visible signs of the feast day included the all-school Mass concelebrated by Father Borowiak and Father Fleck. Students wore a St. Michael t-shirt in place of uniform shirts, played “Saint Bingo,” colored pictures of saints and learned about the 112-year history of St. Michael Parish.
Dr. Joy Martin, director of discipleship formation for the parish, gave “Angel Talks” throughout the day on the theme, “Fascinating Facts about Angels.” The students learned why God created angels, how many are there, are they boys or girls, and what do angels do all day?
“Children are fascinated with angels—as we all should be. They easily recognize and appreciate the awesomeness of God’s creation,” she said.
“To celebrate our parish’s feast day is important because it reminds us of our origin and our purpose for being,” said Father Borowiak.
Principal Ashley Rockey added, “Every day we say the ‘Saint Michael Prayer’ to ask St. Michael to defend us. It is important to remember that angels and archangels are real and so is the battle.”
