As the sun rises over the golden dome and into the 2024-25 school year, Archbishop Hoban High School has made service its school-wide mission. This focus stems from the Holy Cross core values of option for the poor, integrity, and zeal. Last year, the emphasis shifted from individual core values to an overarching theme, and after a successful test run, the school has many exciting plans for this year.
Leading the initiative are Campus Ministers Christopher Fahey and Kelsey Sees ’07. They decided to move away from focusing on a single core value each year, as students would only experience four of the ten values to the fullest by graduation. Instead, the theme for the year will now be drawn from the writings of Blessed Basil Moreau.
“Since my official title is service coordinator, the idea that we are called to serve holds a very special place in my heart,” Fahey said. “I love that it gives our whole community a chance to make the world a better place and, in doing so, to have gratitude for the blessings in our lives.”
The week before classes began, Holy Cross educators heard reflections from seniors Daniel Bisesi, Mateo DeCola, Ava Norton, and Skylar Schmidt about their various service experiences. The staff then went to several local organizations to participate in service projects. Instead of spending more time in meetings, the teachers had the opportunity to live out the year’s theme themselves.
Science teacher Candy Bates appreciated the chance to be outdoors while serving the Akron community. “I think my favorite part of the experience was being in my natural environment while serving God,” she said.
The student body is the main focus of this initiative. With one of the largest freshman classes in Hoban history, this year’s freshman retreat included designing bags for Project Hope—Hoban’s program supporting the homeless and needy. This small act of service will be accompanied by at least 10 hours of service throughout the year. The goal is to encourage students to find joy in directly engaging with the marginalized community, not just because they are required to.
Upperclassmen are also impacted. Junior Tristan Ferrer shared his thoughts on the theme: “It especially resonates with me because it reminds me that it is our duty as Catholics to reach out to others in need.”
Service is not just about giving money or time to a specific group. It’s about looking at the communities and places where we spend the most time. Being called to serve God is about spreading love in every corner, even in the face of adversity. By doing so, God’s grace spreads, which is worth more than any monetary donation. The golden rule is to treat others as you would like to be treated. So, if not for moral obligation, spread love and respect, and it will come back around.
Whether it’s in the streets of Monterrey, Mexico, tutoring children after school, or simply doing chores with a smile, the Hoban community is being called to serve this year. We are privileged to be part of such a beautiful school, and it is our responsibility to share our blessings with those who are less fortunate.
Jesus served us all on the cross, and while no one is asked to make that sacrifice, even something as small as a wave to a stranger can go a long way. Serve others, and serve God, Knights.
