THOUGHTS FROM OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL, JOSEPH VORBACH:
Last Thursday and Friday I was able to attend a short spiritual retreat with most of the other Heads of School and Principals in the Diocese. The retreat master, the priest leading the spiritual reflection throughout the retreat, was Father Jack Peterson, a 1981 graduate of Bishop O'Connell. As a 1983 graduate, I always enjoy seeing Father Jack, someone I have admired for a long time. Father led a wonderful retreat and his reflections called all of us to greater focus in our prayer lives.
Later that evening, I enjoyed, along with a full room of alumni, past parents and friends, the annual Alumni Awards and Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Throughout this evening, as both presenters and recipients spoke, the value and power of an O'Connell education were affirmed. Honorees spoke over and over about the importance of the faith-filled environment at O'Connell, the critical roles played by teachers, coaches and counselors during their development, the love of parents, and the lifelong friendships made. It was, as it has been each year I have attended, a really wonderful evening.
After a busy weekend of homecoming activities and an always appreciated holiday on Monday, we settled into the school week -- one that included the freshman class retreat and PSAT testing for sophomores and juniors on Wednesday. This Sunday, we will hold our annual Open House for prospective families -- an important moment on our school calendar that we treat as an "all hands on deck" evolution to share all that is good about an O'Connell education. If you have the chance to encourage friends and neighbors to come out and give us a look, we are most appreciative of that support.
On Monday, we begin our hearty soup drive to support Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Arlington. Thank you in advance for your support of this longstanding tradition that makes a big difference for those in need in our community.