From May 3 to 8, we celebrated the gift of Catholic education across our schools. This year’s theme, “Pilgrims of Hope: On the Path to Holiness,” reminded us that we are on a shared journey, growing in faith, guided by love, and walking together with hope.

Throughout the week, our school communities took part in prayer, reflection, and meaningful activities that invited students and staff to live out their faith each day, support one another, show compassion, and strive to be the best versions of themselves. Here are some highlights throughout the week!

Pius XII Create Lanterns of Hope

Grade 1 and 6 students at Pius XII invited family members to join them in creating lanterns of hope. Lanterns symbolize hope, guidance, and light in times of darkness. Using simple glass jars, the students designed their own unique tissue paper creations. They then lit their lanterns and came together for a meaningful moment of silence, prayer, and reflection.

St. David and St. Albert Schools Walk for Colon Cancer Awareness

Students and staff at St. David Catholic School walked to Marymount Academy in support of Colon Cancer Awareness.

This meaningful walk served as a reminder that when we come together as a school community, even small steps can make a big difference. Along the way, students enjoyed time outdoors filled with reflection, connection and physical activity.

The school was also joined by members of GSPS and Trustee Ray Desjardins for the special morning event.

Cedar and Pine Tree Planting at St. Benedict School

During Catholic Education Week, Mrs. Morrison’s NSL Grade 7/8 classes, along with Mr. Morris’ Secondary class planted Cedar (Giizhig) trees on the school property. This meaningful activity reflects our commitment to caring for Creation and being good stewards of the land. In the years to come, these Cedar trees will provide staff and students with accessible cedar on school grounds for traditional uses such as making cedar tea.

St. Francis School Donate ‘Lunches of Hope’

Grade 3/4 students at St. Francis Catholic School put their faith into action by donating non-perishable food items and created “Lunches of Hope” for Bizzy Bea’s, a community group that hand delivers meals to those in need.

Students carefully packed each lunch themselves and reflected on messages of hope, kindness and compassion for those receiving them. It was a meaningful reminder that even small acts of service can make a big difference in the lives of others.

Immaculate Conception Hosts “May is for Mary” Liturgy

Immaculate Conception Catholic Elementary School began Catholic Education Week by hosting their annual “May is for Mary” Liturgy rooted in prayer, faith, and community. Students came together to reverently pray a decade of the Rosary, lift their voices in song, and honour the Blessed Mother Mary by presenting flowers to women in attendance. The school was also pleased to welcome Director of Education Morris Hucal as part of the special gathering. Grounded in this year’s Catholic Education Week theme, Pilgrims of Hope, the celebration offered a meaningful opportunity for students and staff to reflect on the importance of faith, gratitude, and togetherness.

Made with Love: St. Albert Students Knit Blankets for Cancer Centre Patients

St. Albert Learning Centre celebrated Catholic Education Week with the culmination of its Threads of Faith & Service: Students Knitting Hope & Healing initiative, a year-long project that began in the fall and reflected this year’s theme of Pilgrims of Hope. In memory of beloved teacher Rick Pelland, PEACE students, staff, parish volunteers, families, and community partners worked together throughout the school year to create 21 handmade blankets for patients receiving care at the Shirley and Jim Fielding Northeast Cancer Centre. The initiative provided students with the opportunity to develop new skills while building meaningful relationships with volunteers from Christ the King Church, who visited weekly to teach, support, and knit alongside students. During the culminating celebration, Christ the King Deacon Roland Muzzatti offered a blessing over the blankets and the hands that created them, serving as a powerful reminder of how Catholic education calls students to live out their faith through acts of kindness, dignity, and care for others.

Ojibwe Language and Student Voice Celebrated at St. James

St. James Catholic Elementary School came together during Catholic Education Week to celebrate language, culture, and student voice by holding a musical presentation led by the school’s youngest NSL learners. Students shared songs they learned in Ojibwe alongside talented guests. The celebration highlighted the importance of Indigenous language learning and provided students with a meaningful opportunity to build confidence while sharing their voices through music. The school also recognized the support of Ms. Petahtegoose, whose guidance and lessons helped bring the presentation to life, as well as the many staff members who supported students throughout the learning journey.

Additional Highlights