Christmas Spirit Present at Ahr Star Mass
Posted on 12/10/2019
On Tuesday, December 10th, St. Thomas Aquinas High School celebrated the annual Ahr Star Pre-Christmas liturgy. The mass was concelebrated by Bishop James Checchio and Father Keith Cervine in the gym, which was transformed into a beautiful church for the celebration. Music for the liturgy was provided by Mr. Joseph Cullinan ’02 along with the talents of the Liturgical Band and Choir. After communion, the much-anticipated and inspiring rendition of “Mary Did You Know?” was performed by Mr. TJ Reilly ‘96. The liturgy was prepared by Campus Ministry team Sister Cynthia Marie, Mr. John Roche, Mr. Kevin McCarthy, and Father Keith Cervine.

Bishop Checchio, in his homily, reminded everyone that God desires to become a part of our lives through the birth of His Son, Jesus. We are all invited into this collaboration with God. It’s ours to choose – and when we do – there is no turning back. Our lives will be filled with peace, love, joy, strength, and everything that we need to continue our journey in life.

The most important attendees at the liturgies were, of course, the Aquinas Ahr Stars and their families. Andrew Yarus attended with his parents and siblings Peter and Daniel. Elijah Patino was there with his sister Mya, and his mom and dad.

After the liturgy, Ahr Star Co-Chairs Joey Dunn ’20 and Bethany Ciccarelli ’20 along with members of Aquinas “Ahr Star” Board and the Student Council, presented the Ahr Stars and their families with many gifts and expressions of love. All of the gifts were purchased with the money donated by the STAHS students and faculty. The monetary gifts were made possible by the money raised at the Spaghetti Dinner. Andrew and Elijah’s brothers and sister also received special Christmas gifts. There was even a surprise visit by Santa Claus!

The parents of both Ahr Stars spoke to the STAHS community, thanking them for the Ahr Star program and the love, prayers, and support that the STA family has poured out to them. With tears in their eyes, they expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming love and generosity of the Ahr Star Program.

The families stayed to enjoy a special luncheon after which the Ahr Stars along with their families had an opportunity to visit with faculty, staff, and students.

The Aquinas “Ahr 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 emphasize 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.


Ahr Star Mass 2019