On October 31, the Saint Joseph School community gathered at Saint Joseph Basilica to celebrate the Solemnity of All Saints—a holy day dedicated to honoring all who have attained heaven. This cherished tradition invites students to reflect on the lives of the saints and to follow their example of holiness, service, and love for God.
This year's Mass was organized by the fifth-grade students under the direction of their teacher, Mrs. Susan Gallivan. In preparation for the celebration, the students each researched a saint, learning about their virtues, challenges, and contributions to the Church. They then prepared written reflections and presentations to share with their classmates, deepening their understanding of what it means to live a life of faith.
When All Saints Day arrived, the fifth-grade students joyfully processed into the Basilica dressed as their chosen saints. They also took on leadership roles during the liturgy—Aaliyah Andersen and Carson Krajcik proclaimed the readings; Charlie Cyr and Cameron Blodgett led the Prayer of the Faithful; and Julian Gibbons, Julie-Ann McCracken, Persefoni Zoi Sgouritsas, Luke Zeglen, and Faye Derry presented the Offertory Gifts.
Rev. Richard Polek, Pastor and Headmaster of Saint Joseph School, was the celebrant of the Mass. During his memorable homily—which began in complete darkness—he reminded students that Jesus is our light. He explained that just as pumpkins shine on doorsteps during Halloween, we, too, are called to shine brightly for others. Fr. Richard encouraged students to consider how they can make their school, families, and the world a better place. "How can we shine?" he asked. "By telling others about the goodness of God, by smiling, and by saying kind words—small things that bring bright light, too." As he spoke, Fr. Richard reached into his cassock and pulled out a small flashlight, shining it toward the students as a symbol of how one light can lead the way. He reminded everyone to be witnesses to Jesus and to live by God's commands, even when the world seems dark. "Just like when the power goes out," he said, "be lights as you go through your neighborhoods tonight while trick-or-treating." As he finished, the lights in the Basilica came back on, filling the church with warmth and awe as students and teachers reflected on the message.
Following the Mass, the students brought their saints to life for the entire student body, sharing what they had learned and offering short presentations about the holy men and women they represented. Saints included: Aaliyah Anderson – Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Stella Andreotta – Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, Sophia Bengtson – Saint Lydia Purpuraria, Julia Biela – Saint Katharine Drexel, Cameron Blodgett – Saint John Neumann, Christopher Bourgeois – Pope Gregory the Great, Samuel Brunnett – Saint Damien, Cecilia Coan – Saint Cecilia, Ariel Corbin – Saint Brigid, Charlie Cyr – Saint Isaac Jogues, Faye Derry – Saint Catherine of Bologna, Julian Gibbons – Saint Francis de Sales, Michael Kamangu – Venerable Fulton Sheen, Carson Krajcik – Saint John la Lande, Julia-Ann McCracken – Dorothy Day, Mia Reed – Mary, Mother of God, Persefoni Zoi Sgouritsas – Saint Marianne Cope, Rylan Shemansky – Our Lady of Peace, Anna Wozniak – Saint Dorothy, Luke Zeglen – Saint Francis of Assisi.
Through their research and presentations, the students demonstrated not only their growing knowledge but also their faith in action—modeling the virtues of courage, kindness, and devotion. This annual tradition reminds us that the saints are living examples of how we are all called to holiness, and it beautifully reflects Saint Joseph School's mission of Religion, Respect, and Responsibility.
