Southern Nebraska Register
"Salvete discipuli!”
These words echo within the corridors of St. Cecilia School in Hastings, marking the commencement of a journey that transcends linguistic study. Latin here isn’t merely a subject; it is a portal to a transformative experience interweaving language, faith, and the pursuit of discipleship in Christ.
The addition of Latin to the curriculum at St. Cecilia came in response to student and parent interest, said Father Cyrus Rowan, principal.
“Some of the common reasons for studying Latin are that it improves students’ vocabulary, it helps improve their understanding and use of English grammar,” he explained. “Additionally, studying Latin can help a student with their critical thinking and logical reasoning skills, and it helps with learning other languages.”
Father Denton Morris, the instructor of the class, talked about the importance of Latin studies.
“The understanding of the Latin roots of our language leads to a connection to the wise thoughts of our Western tradition, which gives us friendship to our predecessors and growth in our appetite for goodness and truth itself,” he said.
At St. Cecilia, students delve into Latin not merely to learn a language but to enrich their academic capabilities, fostering a deeper understanding of Christ’s teachings and nurturing the roots of discipleship.
Elsa Heckman, an eighth-grade Latin enthusiast, resonated the collective enthusiasm.
“Latin is a great experience inside and outside of class,” she said. “It helps boost your scores in every class, not just Language Arts. Overall, I love Latin and would highly recommend it to everyone.”
Father Morris accentuated the holistic advantages of Latin studies and emphasized that Latin isn’t solely about language but about acquiring wisdom from tradition. Latin nurtures not only linguistic proficiency but also a deeper connection to cultural heritage, fostering a love for truth and goodness.
Moreover, Latin at St. Cecilia fosters a sense of community among students—an embodiment of the unity and fellowship found in the journey of discipleship. The camaraderie forged through learning Latin phrases creates a vibrant and supportive environment, mirroring the unity Christ desires in his Body, the Church.
Father Morris said the allure of Latin extends beyond the classroom. He has celebrated Mass for the students in Latin. This not only connects the student to the Church’s liturgical tradition, he explained, but it is also preparation for international events like World Youth Day, where Latin often serves as the common language for the celebration of the Mass. Latin is a thread woven through global Catholic communities, uniting believers in a shared experience of worship and faith, regardless of linguistic differences.
Courtesy photos
