As the school year is starting to come to an end, so is the construction of the grotto. One of Cathedral High School’s main projects this year was the building of the Grotto which was announced in September of 2024. Cathedral staff have been planning and working on making this Grotto possible since the end of last year. 

Having the grotto constructed on the Hill shows a strong sense of devotion to nurturing the hearts, minds and souls of Cathedral’s students and staff. Cathedral understands the importance of finding ways to educate outside the classroom which led them to the construction of the grotto.

While students can interact and engage inside the classrooms, the grotto offers a quiet place to reflect and spend time in prayer. The goal and hope for the grotto is to encourage students to spend time in prayer, contemplation and reflection. This project is meant to help students individually deepen their spiritual connection to their faith. 

Cathedral will hold an Open House on May 7th, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. to celebrate the dedication of the new Grotto, along with a dedication ceremony that will begin at 6:00 p.m. With the Grotto now complete, Cathedral invites friends and families to light a candle in honor and remembrance of a loved one, for a special intention or as a symbol of faith. Those who wish to participate in the lighting of the candle must RSVP before the open house.

Cathedral is offering a special opportunity for students to plant flowers in dedication and honor of the Grotto being finished. This special project unites students in taking part in beautifying the grotto and its sacred place. Clover fields will be planted to represent the Cathedral shamrock, dogwood trees are meant to represent Jesus’ crucifixion, roses will be planted for Mary, Cathedral Bell Roses will represent Cathedral and Mary, Weeping Dogwoods will represent the weeps of Jesus, religion teacher Katie Lewis said, “a lot of the flowers were specifically selected to attract butterflies and incorporate Mary’s nurturing spirit.”

With students engaging in their faith by utilizing the grotto, they will be reminded of the values that define Cathedral’s mission. As time continues to pass, the grotto will become a cherished tradition to the Cathedral community. It will become a legacy of faith, unity, and hope that future classes will keep alive in the years to come. 

The grotto will serve as a powerful symbol of Cathedrals commitment to faith and contemplation for generations of students to come. The future generation of students will have the opportunity to learn on a campus full of peace where they can stop by and spend time alone in prayer and peace. 

Sophomore student Jennifer Velazquez said, “I believe the Grotto symbolizes faith and dedication because it’s a place where people go to reflect, pray, and stay connected to what they believe in. It reminds me that even in busy or stressful times, it’s important to stay grounded and focused. As a student, I can live out those values by staying committed to my goals, supporting others, and being consistent in the things I care about.”