Christmas Spirit Truly Present at Aquinas Star Liturgy
Posted on 12/10/2020
St. Thomas Aquinas High School was blessed to be able to celebrate the annual Aquinas Star Christmas Mass on Wednesday, December 9, 2020.  Even though only a small number of participants were permitted this year due to Covid-19, the event had the same heart and soul.

The mass was concelebrated by Bishop James Checchio and co-celebrated by Father Keith Cervine, school chaplain.  This gym was transformed into a beautiful church setting for the celebration and liturgical music was provided by Mr. Joseph Cullinan ’02 along with members of the Liturgical Choir. The liturgy was prepared by Sister Cynthia Marie, the class officers, Mr. Phil Mascaro, class moderator, and members of the Campus Ministry Department Mr. John Roche and Mr. Kevin McCarthy.

Aquinas Star Rocco DiMaggio was unable to attend the mass due to his ongoing treatments but his grandparents, Mr.  & Mrs. Rocco DiMaggio were present to represent the family.  Mrs. DiMaggio spoke after the liturgy to those in attendance, thanking them for all that the Aquinas Star program has done for Rocco and his family.  Most of all, she said it was the love, care and prayers that are so appreciated.  From the many cards received during the summer, to the spaghetti dinner, to the Halloween cards, to the Thanksgiving Edible Arrangement, Rocco and his family have been the recipient of love and support from the St. Thomas Aquinas community.

After the liturgy, Aquinas Star Co-Chairpersons Ryan Salamante ’21 and Joseph Simmons ‘21, presented Rocco’s grandparents with Christmas gifts for Rocco and his brother Carmine.  The Aquinas Star Board had raised money to purchase the gifts by selling Aquinas Star Christmas facemasks.  The DiMaggio family also received a monetary gift that was made possible by the money raised at the Spaghetti Dinner.

The “Aquinas Star” Mass is always one of the most anticipated events of the year, and this year, in spite of the pandemic, was no exception. It is a humbling and heartwarming experience that emphasizes and reminds everyone what Christmas is all about. This year’s celebration was no different and proved to be just that – a true Christmas celebration.

Aquinas Star Mass 2020