In a display of the never-ending love that permeates the St. Thomas Aquinas High School community, students, faculty, staff, community members, and the Most Reverend Bishop James F. Checchio of the Diocese of Metuchen joined together for the annual Aquinas Star Christmas Mass, to welcome once again this year’s Aquinas Stars and their families.
Concelebrating with Bishop Checchio were STA Director of Catholic Identity Father Mike Tabernerno, Campus Ministry member Father David Keyes, and Interim President Father Keith Cervine. Music for the liturgy was provided by Mr. Joseph Cullinan ’02 along with the talents of the Liturgical Band and Choir.
In his homily, Bishop Checchio reflected on the importance of carrying the message of Advent – anticipating the coming of Christ – into our daily lives by loving God and loving our neighbors.
The special guest for today’s mass was, of course, Aquinas Stars Jack and his family. Aquinas Star Domenic was unable to attend, but members of his family were present to share STA’s love with him. After the liturgy, Aquinas Star Co-Chairs Caroline Devlin ’24 and Brianna Romero ’25 along with members of Aquinas Star Board presented the Aquinas Stars and their families with many gifts and expressions of love. All the gifts were purchased with the money donated by the STA students and faculty. The monetary gifts were made possible by the money raised at the Spaghetti Dinner. There was even a surprise visit by Santa Claus!
The Aquinas Star mass is always one of the most anticipated events of the year, and this year 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.