The St. Clair Catholic District School Board celebrated its annual Welcome Back Mass on Thursday, September 25, marking the start of the 2025–2026 school year.
The liturgy, held at Our Lady Help of Christians Church in Wallaceburg, was celebrated by Father Chris Pietraszko, who offered words of encouragement and a blessing over those in attendance. The church was filled with principals, students, school staff, Board administration, and trustees, joining their voices in prayer and song as a sign of unity in faith and mission.
Father Chris’ uplifting message reminded everyone of God’s presence guiding their journey into the year ahead.
The Mass also welcomed more than 100 new staff members into the St. Clair Catholic family. Each received a blessed Catholic Prayer Companion, the Board’s 2025–2026 Pastoral Plan Anchored in Hope, and a liturgical calendar as symbols of the faith and mission that guide Catholic education at St. Clair Catholic.
Director of Education Lisa Demers reflected on the meaning of the celebration. “The Welcome Back Mass is a beautiful way to begin our school year, as it grounds us in prayer, community, and God’s enduring love,” she said. “As we gather with students and staff, we are reminded that our mission in Catholic education is not only to teach, but to walk together in faith and service. This new year offers us many opportunities to grow, to support one another, and to be a living witness of Christ’s hope in our schools and communities. I am excited for all that lies ahead, and I know that with God’s guidance, it will be a year of blessing and possibility for all of us.”
Following the celebration, staff and students gathered in the church hall to share refreshments and fellowship. The day set a hopeful tone for the new school year, as the St. Clair Catholic community looks forward to new opportunities for learning, growth, and faith-filled living.
Photo: (Back Row L-R): John VanHeck, Chair of the Board; Lisa Demers, Director of Education; Fr. Chris Pietraszko; Lisa Harnarine, Principal of Ursuline College Chatham; Daniella Mancusi, Principal of St. Patrick’s Catholic High School; Derek Morrison, Principal of Gregory A. Hogan Catholic School; (Middle Row): Katie Murphy, Student Trustee – St. Pat’s; Cristian Suffi, Student Trustee – UCC; students from UCC; Natalie St. Amand, teacher at Gregory A. Hogan along with students from Gregory A. Hogan Catholic School.
