St. Casimir’s School holds meal, presentation for Centennial Mass
Published 4:02 pm Saturday, November 22, 2014
After much preparation by many hands, the scene was set for the celebration of the St. Casimir’s School Centennial Mass on Nov. 1 in which Bishop John Quinn presided.
Pictured, left to right, are Larry Stenzel, SCS alumnus from the class of 1973; Superintendent of Schools Marsha Stenzel; Jean (Dulas) Stenzel, class of 1944; Rick Herman, class of 1973 and Bishop John Quinn. — Provided
In speaking of the school’s long history and dedication to the students and families of the local communities, Bishop Quinn repeatedly expressed his delight in the school and the hope for its long continuation.
Following the Mass, a meal was served in the church hall, and with the delicious scents wafting into the church from the supper being prepared, there was no shortage of eager diners.
Having both Bishop Quinn and Winona diocese Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Marsha Stenzel, join the parishioners for both the Mass and the meal was an honor, according to a press release. It provided a wonderful opportunity for the parishioners to visit with these two faith-filled and knowledgeable leaders as they celebrated the blessing of 100 years of education.
Following the meal, a short program was held during which tri-parish pastor the Rev. Thomas Niehaus and current SCS principal Joanne Tibodeau expressed their appreciation for the support that the school has received from its very first years until today.
Gene Hassing — second generation SCS alumnus, class of 1963 — and his wife Pat are shown dining with their granddaughters and fourth generation SCS students McKenzie, Isabella and Paige Roberts. — Provided
Introducing the short slide show titled “Dare to Believe”, Principal Tibodeau had this to say: “Daring to believe in the value and need for Catholic education within our community, a group of committed parishioners, led by Father John Mikolai, brought forth the reality of St. Casimir’s School with the laying of the school’s cornerstone in 1915. From a mustard seed of faith the school was grown, and the first classes were held later that year. It is as true today as it was back then that miracles happen when people of faith, trusting in Jesus, stand up and say ‘I dare to believe in Catholic education.’ We are so very grateful to those early parishioners who sacrificed to make the dream of a local Catholic school a reality, not only for the children of 1915, but also for the students of 2014 and beyond. Miracles dohappen when we dare to believe.”
The presentation of SCS memorabilia through the years was a big hit with a multitude of ages. — Provided
After the presentation, the gathering was invited to take an additional trip down memory lane through a tour of the school and a historical display of photos, articles, trophies and school apparel, something that was enjoyed by the young as well as the young at heart.
