Our first annual Archangels Mass on Friday, September 20, 2024, combined solemn remembrances and celebrations of service. In September, we honor two fallen Salesianum alums, Lt. Joe Szczerba and Fireman Christopher Leach, whose legacies of service continue to inspire the Salesianum community. Their anniversaries are remembered alongside a new tradition of recognizing first responders, healthcare professionals, and educators, symbolizing their vital roles in our everyday lives. This commitment to service and education is at the core of our mission.

We came together as a community to honor the presence of the Archangels in our lives, bringing forth tokens that remind us of their guidance and inspiration. In honor of Archangel Michael, Billy Neumann, whose father is a police officer, announced the presentation of a fire helmet and American flag for first responders and the armed forces. Through Archangel Raphael, TJ Horsman, whose mother is a nurse, announced the offering of a stethoscope and scrubs for healthcare workers. Inspired by Archangel Gabriel, LJ Smith, whose sister is an educator, shared the offering of an image of Christ the Teacher and a Globe for educators. 

Senior Jude Szcerba's reflection reminded us of the countless people, past and present, who contribute to our daily lives in ways we often take for granted. We should appreciate "our own archangels that help us live our everyday routine safely and relatively worry-free. So much work has been done by so many people just to make sure we can have a “regular” school day. When you look at it that way, at least for me, it makes each day seem so much more important.”

Over 40 former employees and retirees some dating back to the mid-1960s, joined the event. Among the attendees was Provincial of the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, Fr. Jack Kolodziej, OSFS, Fr. Richard DeLillio OSFS, a graduate and former teacher, Fr. Ed Ogden OSFS, former Director of Activities and current Pastor at St. Margaret of Scotland parish and Bro. Joe Schodowski, a long-serving Maintenance Director, Stage Crew Moderator, and bus driver.

One of the highlights was the recognition of Jack Kramer, a beloved Spanish teacher and coach. Honored in the chapel that now bears his name, Jack was remembered for his dedication to the school, from assisting with daily Mass to teaching students. His presence in both the classroom and chapel was a testament to his commitment to Salesianum's mission.

Other former faculty members were also recognized, including Charlie Crawford, an English teacher and Theater Director; Ed Stephan, the first AP Government teacher and a varsity football coach; Ray Foley, a Social Studies teacher; and Michael Hart, a 1970 graduate and former Athletic Director. Shirley Hornyak, Salesianum's first female teacher, was honored for her contributions to the German program and the international exchange initiative. Fr. Beretta shared John Rusnak’s, a former Science teacher and Head Wrestling Coach, wisdom with attendees. The reunion, now in its third year, has become a tradition, providing former colleagues the opportunity to reconnect and reflect on their lasting impact on the Salesianum community. 

As part of Mass, we also announced the renaming of Fromentin House to Fromentin-Vavala in honor of Phil Vavala ‘66, a legendary teacher who served for 43 years. Vavala's contributions to the school extended well beyond the classroom—he was instrumental in building the Abessinio Science Center, including the iconic 3-story DNA mega molecule. His legacy as a compassionate mentor and a key figure in Salesianum's history continues to shape the institution. We were happy to have his family back for this special occasion.

A special moment during the Mass was the blessing for Sean Taggart '20, a University of Delaware '24 graduate preparing to serve as a Peace Corps English teacher in Vietnam. Taggart, inspired by his time at Salesianum, was blessed by Fr. Beretta, marking the school's ongoing commitment to service beyond the classroom.

The Archangels Mass was a meaningful event that brought together the Salesianum community to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future.