As is tradition at Jesuit schools throughout the world, Bellarmine began its 2020-2021 school year the morning of August 17 celebrating the Mass of the Holy Spirit.
Still operating under State and County health guidelines during the pandemic, this year’s launch of the school year was different than those previously in the school’s 169 year history as the Mass of the Holy Spirit was a virtual experience, with the Bellarmine community participating online.
Fr. Mike Moodie, S.J., Celebrant of the Mass, began with the reading of a Land Acknowledgement honoring the indigenous Tamyen and Muwekma Ohlone people who were once inhabitants of the land upon which the Bellarmine campus now exists. The Homily was delivered by Mrs. Kristina Luscher, principal. Chris Meyercord ’88, president, delivered words of welcome to returning students and new Bells from the Class of 2024 and transfer students. Participants included vocalist Abbe Pingol ’21, musician Charles Damaso ’23, and lectors Robert Yang ’22 and Sam Otto ’23. The Responsorial Psalm was led by Ian da Silva ’21 and his mother, Lidwine da Silva; and the Universal Prayer was led by Michael Young ’21 and his mother, Jenille Young.
In his remarks, Mr. Meyercord noted that as part of Jesuits West – the group of all Jesuit schools and ministries in the Western United States – Bellarmine and all Jesuit ministries are going to be part of the Collaborative Organizing for Racial Equity (CORE), with a collective goal of engaging in 10,000 actions for equity – actions that make the world a more just place – a place that is reflective of God’s Kingdom. “Globally, all Jesuit works are called to Journey with Youth in the creation of a hope-filled future, said Mr. Meyercord. “We know that there are many worries, fears, and anxieties that we face today. We know that taking action for equity might seem daunting. But we approach that future with joy, in large part because we get to go there with you – our students. You give us hope for the future.”
In her Homily reflection, Mrs. Luscher noted the school year theme of Rooted in Hope. “In today’s Gospel, we are reminded that our foundation is what gives us strength,” said Mrs. Luscher. “If we, like the mighty redwood trees, rely on our interconnectedness, we can withstand the forces that challenge us. Students, while we aren’t together on campus, know that we are here for you. Students of the class of 2024 and those new to Bellarmine, know that you are now part of this interconnected root system that has lasted 169 years, and will last hundreds more. Our strength comes through our faith, our unity. It comes through partnership, through collective action.”
Bellarmine begins the school year with remote instruction through the first quarter, at which time the model will be reassessed pending health and safety regulations at that time.