Spiritual Life at St Joe's
At the heart of our school is a vibrant spiritual life rooted in the Catholic tradition. We strive to nurture the faith of our students through daily prayer, regular participation in the sacraments, and community celebrations that reflect the liturgical calendar.
Daily Prayer
Each day begins and ends in prayer. Students in Grades 1–8 take turns leading the school in morning prayer and afternoon prayer, fostering leadership and spiritual growth. We also pause to give thanks before meals with a traditional Grace.
Celebration of the Mass
The Holy Mass is the center of our spiritual life. Students in Pre-K through Grade 8 attend Mass together once or twice each month at St. Joseph’s Church, located in front of the school.
Each Mass is hosted by a different class (Grades 1–8), with students actively participating in the readings, offering the Prayers of the Faithful, and presenting the gifts. Special Masses throughout the year include:
Harvest Day Mass – Jr. High students collect non-perishable food donations for local families in need.
All Saints Day Mass – Hosted by Grade 2.
Mother’s Day Mass – Hosted by Grade 3.
Grandparents’ Day Mass – A celebration where grandparents are invited to join.
Stations of the Cross – Performed by Grade 8 during Lent.
Graduation Mass – A special liturgy honoring our 8th-grade graduates at the end of the school year.
Our school choir, led by Mrs. Autiello, enhances our liturgical celebrations with beautiful music. On Mass days, students wear their dress uniforms. Kindergarten and 1st grade students are paired with 7th and 8th grade buddies, helping foster community across grade levels. Families are always welcome to join us for Mass.
Sacraments and Devotions
Reconciliation:
Students in Grades 3–8 have the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation twice a year, deepening their relationship with God through the healing grace of confession.
Adoration:
Several times throughout the year, classes spend quiet time in Eucharistic Adoration in our third-floor chapel—an opportunity for peaceful reflection and prayer.
Rosary:
The entire school community gathers in the gym to pray the Rosary together a few times each year.
Spiritual Retreats
Staff Retreat:
Before the academic year begins, our faculty and staff come together for a retreat focused on spiritual renewal and preparing to guide our students in faith.
8th Grade Retreats:
Our 8th-grade students participate in both a beginning-of-the-year and end-of-the-year retreat, offering dedicated time for reflection, bonding, and spiritual growth as they prepare to transition to high school.
