Cathedral recognizes the substantial changes that have quickly filled its halls, with the new Innovation Center, the countless new educators, and of course, its new students. One can only repay the building that established the Fighting Irish tradition and provided a home filled with spiritual, academic, and social growth by celebrating its Birthday.
Cathedral High School was established on September 13, 1918, 106 years ago, operated by the Holy Cross Brothers. As the years went by, Cathedral faced many ups and downs and ultimately closed its doors in 1973. Thankfully, a group of supporters who saw what Cathedral had to offer, relocated it to a new site in 1976, making it a co-ed school.
Cathedral has since grown, earning many academic and athletic awards such as The National Blue Ribbon School and much more. Having its halls filled with as many as 1,200 students, Cathedral rose from a small 90-student building to a large, modernized location, while still remaining true to its core values and missions that were created when it opened its doors in 1918.
Religion teacher, Mrs. Kasberg discussed the history of Cathedral on CHS’ live on Friday, in commemoration of the Cathedral’s 106th birthday.
Friday, September 13, 2024 was Cathedral’s 106th Birthday. There was a sense of excitement coming from staff members who graduated years ago and students who felt at home at Cathedral. Gathering in their CORE groups, students made items like rosaries, blankets, and bookmarks which would then be given to various Catholic grade schools.
In addition, some resource classes were also able to serve the school by doing some work outside with the facilities team. Principal Julie Barthel says, “It is always a blessing to do something for someone else. Cathedral is role modeling what we hope students will do when they leave Cathedral as they continue to be active in direct and indirect service to others.”
Service is not only part of the Cathedral’s mission and Holy Cross values but is also something that helps students and staff grow together in pride for their school, especially on its birthday.
Mrs. Shannon Braun, Cathedral’s Academic Operations Manager, says, “It is always great to celebrate birthdays. Why wouldn’t we celebrate being 106? It is the perfect time to take pride in our Holy Cross roots. Not many schools make it over a hundred years, so it is worth recognizing our history and celebrating our success as one of the best Catholic Schools in the nation. It is a perfect time to reflect on our blessings and take the time to give back to our community.”
So, Dear Old Cathedral, here’s to you, we wish you a Happy Birthday.
