Saint Bede hosts 7th graders for NET Day
Goldie Rapp
One of the most enduring and beloved facets of the Illinois Valley community is its pronounced commitment to Catholic education, from preschool through high school graduation. On Dec. 3, seventh graders from Holy Family, Peru Catholic and Trinity Catholic Academy gathered in the Abbey Church for a day with NET Ministries.
The students participated in a day centered around Christ in the Eucharist and how to recognize God all around us. Saint Bede students participate in these day-long retreats each year, and this year we had the chance to partner with our fellow Catholic schools to share the experience. The NET Ministry team hosts small group discussions, relatable skits and activities and even partnered with Saint Bede’s Student Chaplain, Fr. Dominic Garramone, OSB, and Fr. Paul Carlson of Holy Family to host Adoration for students. From top to bottom, this retreat gave students a chance to grow in their faith in the same way Saint Bede students do each year.
“In talking about shared goals with principals and priests at other Catholic schools, our focus is to find ways to build alongside each other academically, spiritually and as a community. Hosting a NET day for seventh graders gives them a chance to learn about their faith in an accessible way, meet others in a Catholic school setting and find commonality with their peers”, said Director of Enrollment Management Jon Steben.
Want to learn more about Christian formation at Saint Bede? Reach out today to speak with Student Chaplain Fr. Dominic Garramone, OSB!