Story published in the April 2023 FAITH Grand Rapids magazine | Written by Maryalene Laponsie | Photography by Heather Abram

On April 12, students from eight of our Catholic schools participated in the Battle of the Books. The event was hosted at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary School (ABVM) and was organized by teacher, Julie Mattioli. Unlike the national program, the diocesan Battle culminates on one day and is specific to students in 4th grade.

In Catholic schools, students are encouraged to understand their own gifts and how to share those gifts with others. That instruction does not end on June 9. Check out these summer camps and courses in and around our Catholic schools!

Three Catholic School students were among 16 contestants at the 46th Annual Greater Grand Rapids Spelling Bee that took place yesterday, March 28. This year marks the first time since the pandemic that the spelling bee has been held, and the excitement from students was clear. 

Meet Josie, the spunky and sweet service dog of West Catholic High School! 

"Unless you change and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven." (MT 18:3) Really? I haven't met anyone who wants to go back to their childhood. I have met people who would like to go back to the early adult years when they were young and beautiful and strong. I recently read about a man who spends $2 million dollars a year on a routine that he believes will make his body younger - but not like a child. 

Starting tomorrow, Ash Wednesday, Bishop Walkowiak has asked that time be set aside at the end of each school day for all Catholic school students to begin to reflect and then pray together an Act of Contrition. For additional details on this initiative, please read his letter to parents in English or in Spanish.

Meet Charlotte, the smallest service dog with the biggest heart! 

Charlotte is a 2-year-old purebred Shih Tzu and has been visiting St. Mary’s School with her owner, Judy Kidd, for most of the 2022-23 school year. When Judy got Charlotte as a puppy, she knew training her to be a therapy dog was something she wanted to do. A spunky dog despite her diminutive size, Charlotte underwent serious training to prepare to serve others and has since been registered with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs.

Please join us in welcoming Theresa Benesh as the newest member of the Office of Catholic Schools! Theresa began her role as Admissions Advocate on January 23.

This week, Feb. 6-10, 2023, recognizes the National School Counseling Week focusing public attention on the unique contribution of school counselors within U.S. school systems. 

Corpus Christi Catholic School (Holland, MI) is one of many places in our diocese where students go to learn coping strategies. It is a safe and welcoming environment for students that helps build a healthier community.