HIGHLANDS — The consecration of a new Our Lady of the Mountains Church began Sunday with the chirping of crickets and ended with a cascade of rose petals, marking two milestones for the Diocese of Charlotte: a new church and a new parish.

The Sept. 7 Mass was celebrated by Bishop Michael Martin and Father Jason Barone. It was a historic first for them both, as well as the 300 people who gathered inside the Baroque-style church perched atop a hill in the aptly-named town of Highlands.

The 8,000-square-foot, $15 million church still needs some finishing work, but the consecration date was selected so the community could celebrate before the mostly seasonal congregation relocates after the Labor Day holiday. This was the first time many witnessed the special rite in which a building is consecrated and set aside as a sacred house of worship – and they were not alone in celebrating. Crickets inside the church had joined in with the voices of the choir singing the entrance hymn.

"Crickets... usually the mention of the word speaks to silence, and yet, this morning even the crickets rejoice,” the bishop joked as he greeted the congregation.

“This is, in many ways, probably a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I am 64 and have never been to one, let alone as the bishop,” he continued. “Treasure this moment – it is unique in the life of the Church.”

Sacred moments shared

During the consecration rite, Father Barone, parochial administrator, formally presented the construction drawings to the bishop, who held them up to represent his acceptance of the church on behalf of the diocese. The bishop then blessed the walls of the church and the people with holy water.

The choir sang the Litany of the Saints before the bishop sealed a first-class relic of St. Justine into the altar.

He then anointed the altar with chrism and lit a brazier of incense to represent the prayers of the faithful rising to heaven. Clergy then incensed the parishioners, and before the Liturgy of the Eucharist began, the altar was dressed in linens and candles were lit, representing the light of Christ.

A beacon to the world

In his homily, Bishop Martin noted the grandeur of the sacred space and encouraged the congregation to bring the joy of the day’s celebration out into the world – sharing the Gospel message of salvation with others.

“This beautiful new church stands as a beacon to remind us every single day of what the world needs and what we have been sent to accomplish,” he said. “We do not come here just to receive God's Word... we come here to be touched by it, claimed by it and to go forth to proclaim it by our lives and our words. If all we did was create a beautiful space to hear God’s Word and crickets thereafter, we have missed the purpose for which God’s Word goes out.”

His homily ended with a standing ovation as he praised the efforts of Father Barone, who has devoted many hours to planning the beautiful structure for his parishioners and for the glory of God.

Bishop Martin noted it is fitting that the building is not yet completed, since the work of the Church is ongoing.

“Not in the studs that we still see exposed, not in the concrete floor… but in the way the Church envisions a holy, sacred space like this being a springboard for building the Body of Christ,” he said. “We have to build God’s kingdom wherever we go … now the real work starts. May this sacred space, this consecrated church, empower all of us to build God’s kingdom.”

A cascade of blessings

There was one final surprise. JD Davis, who spent most of the last year building the church, snuck up to the rooftop during the closing procession to drop thousands of rose petals through the oculus, a circular window in the dome of the new church.

This cascade of petals through the oculus is a tradition that dates to the year 609 at the Pantheon in Rome, and represents the Holy Spirit’s descent on Mary and the apostles at Pentecost.

It awed the congregation, bringing many to tears, and had some pocketing a petal to remember the moment.

“This was very emotional for me. I cried... when the roses came down from the ceiling,” said Deacon Sigfrido Della Valle. “I always associate roses with Mother Mary. To me, that is the number-one symbol of the Virgin Mary, and it was unexpected.”

Catherine Turner, a longtime parishioner, was also struck with emotion.

“We are the Church Militant and, like the bishop said, we still have work to do. Up there is the Church Triumphant, (in) heaven, and that is where the petals were coming from,” Turner said. “We just consecrated this place, and now it's God’s house.”

Climbing a mountain of faith

After Mass, the congregation gathered to celebrate its history, the day’s consecration, and the community’s future. Father Barone announced that Our Lady of the Mountains was about to be elevated from being a mission of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Franklin to parish status.

“We first made our mark here in Highlands in the 1950s with a cornerstone for our church, and now we made a slightly larger mark here today,” Father Barone said.

The mission was started in the 1930s by Glenmary missionaries to evangelize in the region, where Catholics were scarce.

Marie Schmitt, her husband and four children moved to Highlands in 1965 and were the first full-time members.

“People came and went during the summer months, but for a long time we were the only family here in the wintertime,” the 93-year-old laughed. “Lots of times Father would have Mass in the little church that was freezing cold because there was no heat.”

Schmitt remarked that the new church was gorgeous, and she is moved by how much the Catholic community has grown.

“This place has been my life since 1965, and I am so proud of it.”

— Lisa M. Geraci. Photos by Troy C. Hull 

Vision of Catholicism on a hilltop

The Baroque-style church may contrast with the surrounding mountain landscape, but it embodies Father Jason Barone's vision and will serve as a teaching tool for locals, tourists and parishioners – a lesson in the Catholic faith made of limestone and stucco, he said.

The exterior front wall, currently particle board covered with black paper and blue painter’s tape, will soon be transformed into a 35-foot limestone facade adorned with a statue of Our Lady of Mount Carmel holding the Christ Child. The words “Behold thy mother” will be engraved underneath the statue as a nod to both the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Church as mother.

Once finished, the interior will literally be supported by the seven sacraments, represented by arched niches lining both sides of the nave. Each will have its own window, allowing “the grace of heaven to shine through.”

The tabernacle is flanked by altars to St. Joseph and the Blessed Mother.

Plans call for the large interior dome, the walls and the marble altars acquired from St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia to be textured with elaborate patterns and painted with sacred images – all reflecting the beauty of Catholicism through the Baroque architectural style.

Baroque architecture originated in Rome in the late 16th century after the Council of Trent, which was the Church’s response to the Protestant Reformation.

Catholic architects designed ornate churches featuring spatial drama, dramatic curves and rich textures to inspire a sense of awe in God’s presence.

“Father had a vision for this Baroque church, calling it ‘the Catechism in stone,’” said parishioner Catherine Turner, who was active in the campaign to build the church. “It was a vision, and I thought, to build that type of church in this day and age when churches are closing and consolidating  – I had to help. People think: Highlands, why not make it look like a mountain church? We are about building a Catholic church, and no matter where it is, it should look like a Catholic church. You don’t do things for the human factor; you do them for God.”

Officers for the 2026-27 session are:

• Chairman: Father Benjamin Roberts, V.F., priest-in-charge of the Catholic Community of Waxhaw

• Vice Chairman: Father Peter Ascik, pastor and rector of St. Patrick Cathedral in Charlotte

• Secretary: Father David McCanless, Campus Ministry chaplain at Wake Forest University

• Treasurer: Father John Putnam, J.V., pastor of St. Mark Parish in Huntersville and judicial vicar for the diocese

Bishop Michael Martin, OFM Conv., serves as president of the Presbyteral Council.

Elected by fellow priests to serve a three-year term from 2026 to 2029 on the Presbyteral Council is Jesuit Father Mark Scalese. Re-elected to serve an additional three-year term are Father Peter Ascik, pastor and rector of St. Patrick Cathedral in Charlotte; Father Patrik Cahill, pastor of St. Matthew Parish in Charlotte; and Father Alfonso Gamez, pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Lenoir.

Other members of the Presbyteral Council are listed on the diocese’s website, www.charlottediocese.org.

Required by Church law, the Presbyteral Council represents all priests in the diocese and is “like a senate of the bishop” (Code of Canon Law 495 §1), with about half the members elected by priests and others appointed by the bishop.

— Catholic News Herald

Father Roberts

Father AscikFather McCanless Father Putnam

MURPHY — Members of St. William Church in Murphy, a mountain parish of just 280 households and the westernmost parish in the Diocese of Charlotte, gathered with Bishop Michael Martin on Aug. 30 to celebrate: It’s the first parish to reach its goal in the diocese’s “Making Room” philanthropic challenge.

The $150 million initiative – the largest in diocesan history – is designed to help all parishes such as St. William respond to local needs and demands brought on by growth.

The “Making Room Challenge” launched with seven pilot parishes in late June and has already seen tremendous success, diocesan leaders say, having raised more than $38 million, or 25% of its total two-year goal. Bishop Martin has been instrumental in that early success, personally raising more than $34 million.

Collectively, the seven first-phase parishes have reached 39% of their goal with four months to go. St. Joseph in Asheboro was the second parish to exceed its goal, raising $606,200 of $448,000 so far.

At St. William, challenge committee chair Mary Welch reported that people have pledged $294,000 so far, surpassing its $244,000 goal.

“It’s really great that St. William parish, the western gateway to the diocese, is the first to reach its goal,” said Jim Kelley, diocesan development director. “It just goes to show how clergy, parish leaders and parishioners are embracing this moment in our history and are ‘all in’ in supporting the impact that “Making Room” will have across the diocese for generations.”

At the parish’s celebratory luncheon, Bishop Martin told parishioners: “You have made commitments for blessings that are going to go well beyond St. William.”
investing in the future

“Making Room” will invest in parishes, Catholic Charities, Catholic schools and land acquisition, among other things – all in the name of reaching more people with the Church’s Gospel message.

All 93 parishes and missions will take part in a phased rollout, keeping 50% of the funds raised for local capital projects, ministry needs and endowments. Parishes that hit designated stretch goals will retain 100% of any additional funds.

St. William hopes the effort will be enough to refurbish the sanctuary, repair the roof and update its HVAC systems, add an electronic road sign, install LED lighting in the outdoor pavilion, and install rubber flooring in the playground.

Peggy Strand, parish business manager, said their success reflects parishioners’ generosity and a strong committee chaired by Welch, who has a background in fundraising.

“St. William is full of loving people who love the Church and love each other,” she said.

Father Augustine Ogar of the Missionaries of St. Paul was appointed St. William’s parochial administrator just last year and says the initiative’s rapid success demonstrates the strength of the people he shepherds.

“It’s given me a lot of confidence in this parish community because, being new here, I needed to get to know the people and their abilities,” he said. “I’ve discovered the strength of this parish is their ability to come together and push for the common good.”

Showing God’s love

St. William has grown thanks in large part to retirees drawn to the mountains. So many have come from Florida that parishioners have jokingly dubbed part of the sanctuary “The Florida section.”

Members say the community is a tight-knit, caring group in a town known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation, particularly along the Hiwassee River.

At the Aug. 30 celebration, parishioners lined up to greet Bishop Martin, laughing and talking and posing for photos.

Under a picnic shelter, Bishop Martin told the crowd, St. William “is sending a strong message to the rest of the diocese about our communion with one another: This is a small community but part of the greater whole.”

Parishioner Dixie Buckborough reflected the church’s welcoming spirit, offering hugs to Massgoers as they walked through the door.

She joined the parish 22 years ago when she and her husband moved from Florida and immediately “fell in love” with St. William. When he passed away in 2013, the parish was there for her.

“I got through it because of my church family,” she said. “Because of the love I felt here I started offering hugs at the door – and so many people say they want and need a hug.”

Mercedes Engler is another Florida transplant who found her spiritual home at St. William 18 years ago and sings in the choir.

“The people here are good, “she said, “truly good and honest.”

Bob Adams, who moved from the Tampa Bay area, said the parish’s small size helps foster the sense of community.

“The parish is small and the people are great, and very giving,” he said. “You can see that through the fact that we met our goal already.”

— Christina Lee Knauss. Photos by Christina Lee Knauss and Gabe Swinney.

From having Mass in a theater to building  a larger church

St. William Parish can trace its beginnings to Father Lane, who preached on the steps of the Cherokee County Courthouse in 1937. The following year, Father Ambrose Rohrbacher became pastor of St. John Church in Waynesville, which at the time included the state’s seven western-most counties. He and other Diocese of Raleigh priests offered Mass in Murphy every fifth Sunday in private homes, a theater, a hotel dining room and even a funeral parlor.

The original St. William Church was built in 1952. Although there were only five Catholic families in town at the time, the church was built to seat 70. The Glenmary Home Missioners served the parish from 1954 to 1987. The current church was completed in 1985. The parish also serves the mission of Immaculate Heart of Mary in Hayesville.

More online

At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Read about the “Making Room Challenge”

Father John Hanic talked about sacred art that holds special meaning to him, the joy of fishing trips and reflected on his journey to the priesthood as he prepared to retire as pastor of St. John De La Salle Parish in North Wilkesboro. Read the story.

This collection provides for the future pension and retiree health benefits of the 147 priests from our diocese, other dioceses and religious order priests serving the Church in western North Carolina. An additional 25 retired priests benefit from this collection now, while there are 27 priests who will be eligible for retirement within the next 10 years.

In his annual letter announcing the collection, Bishop Michael Martin, OFM Conv., recalled Jesus’ reminder in John’s Gospel that “the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11).

“Throughout my years as a priest and now as your bishop, I have witnessed countless examples of that faithful love in the lives of our priests,” he wrote. “They have celebrated our joys, comforted us in our sorrows, proclaimed the Gospel, and faithfully offered the sacraments that nourish our lives in Christ.”

He urged parishioners to “Think for a moment about the priest who helped shape your faith. Perhaps he baptized your child, prepared you for marriage, visited a loved one in the hospital, or celebrated the funeral Mass of someone dear to you. Our priests have walked beside us during life’s most sacred moments.”

This collection is “an opportunity for us to express our gratitude in a tangible way by caring for those who have spent their lives caring for us,” he wrote.

Contributions will help fund the Diocese of Charlotte Priests Pension Trust, the Diocese of Charlotte Retired Priests Health Plan Trust, and the retirement programs of the religious orders and other dioceses that are providing priests to serve in our parishes.

The 2026 goal for the collection is $2,194,000. Of the funds raised, 77% will go toward pension contributions to diocesan priests’ retirement plans and retirement benefits expenses for retired diocesan priests’ health plans, 17% for pension contributions for religious order priests’ retirement plans, 3% for administrative fees and 3% for fundraising costs.

The amount assessed each parish is 3% of its annual offertory income.

Many people contribute to this collection during the offertory at Mass, but people can also give online, mail in their donations or drop them off at their parish office.

— Trish Stukbauer

Donate online

At charlottediocese.org/giving/priests-retirement-benefits-collection: Donate through the diocesan website, where gifts will be credited to your parish

CHARLOTTE  — Rediscover hope. Renew your spirit. Walk with Christ. Join thousands of faithful at the Charlotte Convention Center Sept. 11 and 12 to get energized by Bishop Michael Martin and other dynamic Catholic voices, experience one of the largest Eucharistic processions in the nation, and celebrate and deepen your faith.

This is more than an event – it’s a journey of renewal and a call to share the message of Hope with a world longing for it. Find the full schedule of events, speaker profiles, Eucharistic procession instructions, FAQs and more at goeucharist.com. 

Plan your visit

• Parking decks are located at The Green (adjacent to St. Peter Church) and the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Surface parking lots are also available. Better yet: take the light rail line or ride share.
• The Charlotte Convention Center prohibits outside food from being brought in, including coolers. Concessions are available inside, and many restaurants are located nearby.
• Want to make it a weekend getaway? Several hotels are located near the Charlotte Convention Center. More info is on GoEucharist.com.
• Browse commercial and informational vendors from 5 p.m. to closing Friday, Sept. 11, and 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12.
• Haven’t been to confession in a while? Here’s your chance! Dozens of priests will be on hand to hear confessions: 11:30-3:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12.

GET THE EC APP!

Everything you need for the Eucharistic Congress – right on your phone! Get it here.

Be sure to allow notifications so you don’t miss important alerts!

Worship

Eucharistic Procession

9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 12

The Eucharistic Procession, in which Bishop Michael Martin carries a monstrance containing the Eucharist through Uptown Charlotte, is a highlight of the two-day Eucharistic Congress and one of the largest events of its kind in the U.S. It will start at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, outside St. Peter Church at 507 S. Tryon St., and end inside the Charlotte Convention Center. Line up anywhere along the red procession route by 8:30 a.m. to join in behind your parish’s banner as it passes by.

NOTE: Not able to take part in the outdoor procession? No problem – just go directly to Exhibit Hall A-B inside the convention center.

Holy Hour

10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 12

The Holy Hour will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 12. The homily on the Gospel of Luke (Luke 5:1-11) – The Call of Simon the Fisherman – will be given by Father Kevin Martinez.

Mass

4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12

Join Bishop Martin and priests of the Diocese of Charlotte for Mass at the end of the Eucharistic Congress, starting at 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, inside the Charlotte Convention Center. (This vigil Mass fulfills your Sunday obligation.) Bishop Martin will give the homily.

 Worship music led by The Vigil Project

The Vigil Project will lead music during the Holy Hour and Mass on Saturday, Sept. 12. The group’s mission is to expand the conversation around Catholic music to extend beyond the liturgy into the day-to-day life of faith. Their latest release is “Meditations on the Our Father,” a full-length album written by The Vigil Project alongside Ben Batalla, featuring music to accompany OSV Books’ release of the Hagios Scripture Study.

Entertainment

Doors open 5 p.m. Friday

Food and beverages will be available for sale, including beer and wine. 100+ exhibitors also open.

Young Adult Networking/Drop-in: Friday, Sept.11 5-:30-7 p.m.

Sponsored by:Truthly and Young Catholic Professionals - Charlotte Chapter

Welcome by Bishop Martin: 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11
The 2026 Eucharistic Congress kicks off with a welcome message from Bishop Michael Martin, OFM Conv.

Keynote: Ana Munley

7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11
Ana Munley is a Catholic speaker, digital creator and host of the “AfterMass” podcast, where she encourages people to move beyond lukewarm faith and embrace a deeper life of discipleship.

The Scally Brothers in Concert: Hallelujah Tour 2026

8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11

The Scally Brothers are a Christian pop duo from Toledo, Ohio, made up of brothers Jake and Zach Scally. Combining infectious melodies, dynamic live performances, and a message rooted in faith, hope, and perseverance, they have performed more than 700 concerts at churches, festivals and venues across the United States.

Their breakout single, “Keep Hopin’,” reached nearly 100 radio stations and has garnered more than 3.5 million streams worldwide, followed by popular releases including “GOOD GOOD GOD,” “Chasing After You,” “Hallelujah,” and “YOU.” Through energetic performances and uplifting songs inspired by real-life experiences, The Scally Brothers seek to lead audiences closer to Christ and remind them that God is always at work, even in life’s most difficult moments.

Talks

English Program

11:30-3:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12

Katie Prejean McGrady

Katie Prejean McGrady is an award-winning author, podcaster and host of “The Katie McGrady Show” on SiriusXM’s The Catholic Channel. She serves as a Vatican analyst for CNN, and collaborates with the Vatican Dicastery for Communications.

Jason Simon

Jason Simon is the president of The Evangelical Catholic. Under his leadership, it has experienced consistent expansion by equipping local Catholic leaders to be not only disciples but disciple makers.

Nathan Crankfield

Nathan Crankfield is a speaker, executive coach, author and host of the podcast “Seeking Excellence with Nathan Crankfield.”

Exhibits & Screenings

‘Cabrini’ English & Spanish screenings

Georgia Martyrs Exhibit

Vietnamese Program

  Featuring Vincentian Father Paul Phuong Pham, parochial vicar at St. Mary’s Parish in Greensboro. Confessions will also be available in Vietnamese.

Middle/High School Program

 A special Saturday program just for rising sixth-graders to 12th-graders featuring Katie Prejean McGrady and The Scally Brothers.

NOTE: All participants must check in Saturday between 8-11:30 a.m. outside Upper Level East – Room 220 inside the convention center. Pre-register online at www.goeucharist.com/2026-lineup/#schoolto save time in line.

Exhibitors

CATHOLIC MERCHANDISE
Exquisite Arts
Bethlehem Olive Wood
Luzca Beauty & Sagrada
Blue Ocean Clay
12 Gardens Sacramentals
Catgear
Romantic Catholic
Seek What Is Above
Notre Dame Creations
Trinity Church Supply
AMDG Designs
Holy Land Art
Ladybug Legend Rosaries
Sacred Stitches
Six Lilies
Glorious Products
Pray 4 Holy Spirit
Sophia Institute Press
JMJ Rosary
Little Oratory
Know Hope
Azar Souvenirs
Light Shine Art
Seen & Unseen Books
St. Bernadette Gift Shop
Liberia San Jeronimo
Flight Foods
Guadalupe Roastery
Hermanas Clarisas de Tlapa, Guerrero
Gifts of Faith
Angelluz Religious Jewelry
Christian Olive Art
Outpouring of Trust
Proud Catholic Company
Santa Rita Arte y Fe
Totally Catholic Tees
Bless Buy Enterprise
Got Mary? / Got Mercy?
Hecho Para el Cielo
Instrumentos del Señor
Harleigh Leonards Designs
Regina’s Skincare
Pure Faith and Love
Religious Medals
Ave Maria Catholic Store
GRIFA
Rosa Guitierrez
TAN Books
Band of the Leaf
Prayer Pillowcases
CB Jewelry

CATHOLIC ORGANIZATIONS
Diocese of Charlotte Campus Ministry
Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte
Diocese of Charlotte Marriage, Family & Life Office
Diocese of Charlotte African American Affairs Ministry
NC Right to Life
Luisa Piccarreta - Servant of God
Vida Con Proposito
Adopt-A-Seminarian
Beautiful Marriage & Family
Memento Christi
Sensus Fidelium
Martyrs’ Walk - Catholic Men’s Conference
Charlotte Cursillo
Saint Serra of Charlotte
Sober Now
Catholic Charismatic Renewal
Legion of Mary
Midwest Theological Forum
Mary Mother of God Mission Society
Knights of Columbus
40 Days For Life
Carolina Family Coalition
Retrouvaille of Western NC
Carolina Traditional Liturgy Society
Augustine Institute
Totally Catholic Fundraising
Young Catholic Professionals
The Evangelical Catholic

SERVICES
Wallick Investments
Triad OBGYN
St. Francis Springs Prayer Center
Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
Room At The Inn
Woodard Luxury Travel
Mira Via
Chesterton Academy
Thrivent
Genesis Wealth Planning
EWTN
Wyoming Catholic College
Birthright of Charlotte
Helena House Therapy
Truthly

VOCATIONS & RELIGIOUS ORDERS
Diocese of Charlotte Vocations Office
Diocese of Charlotte Permanent Deacons
Capuchin Franciscans
Claretian Missionaries
Lay Dominicans
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco
Sisters of Mercy of the Americas
Glenmary Home Missioners
St. Joseph College Seminary

At GoEucharist.com:
Find the full schedule of events, speaker profiles, Eucharistic procession instructions, FAQs and more.

Parishioners at Holy Redeemer Church in Andrews welcome Bishop Martin for his first visit. The parish has just 77 families and also serves the Prince of Peace Mission in Robbinsville, about 20 miles away. (Christina Lee Knauss)

Bishop Michael Martin made his first visit to the parish, the smallest in the diocese at about 77 households, for the 6 p.m. Bilingual Mass on Aug. 29, and shared worship, prayer, laughter, song and a delicious meal homemade by parishioners. Father Joseph Wasswa, parochial administrator, concelebrated the Mass.

The visit was a special event for members of the parish, which has a large Hispanic community and also serves Prince of Peace Mission in the small town of Robbinsville about 20 miles away. Bishop Martin offered prayers for both congregations during the service and as he said grace before the meal.

Holy Redeemer started in 1958 when it was opened as a Catholic chapel in a rented store building, a station of St. William Church in Murphy run by the Glenmary Missioners, who served extensively in the North Carolina mountains.

Masses were also held in the basement of the Andrews Public Library until plans for a dedicated building were begun in 1960.

Ground was broken for the new church in 1962 and it was completed in 1963. In 1972, Holy Redeemer – like all the churches in western North Carolina – became part of the Diocese of Charlotte, and in 1976 it became a parish.

The community regularly meets for worship, prayer and other activities, and the parish hosts a popular procession in downtown Andrews on the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe each December. The small congregation is vibrant, with many young families.

Leticia Jaime, a member of Holy Redeemer for 20 years, attended Mass with her daughter Bryanna, 17, and was grateful to welcome and meet the bishop.

“It’s a blessing for us to have him, because I know it’s a long drive out here,” she said. “I’m glad to have him visit us. This is a very friendly parish, a beautiful and faithful place to live in peace.”

— Christina Lee Knauss 

The community also celebrated the early success of its “Making Room” challenge, a diocesan-wide $150 million philanthropic effort – the largest fundraising initiative in the diocese’s 54-year history. It is aimed at strengthening parishes, expanding charitable outreach and responding to rapid growth.

The initiative is being rolled out in phases, and St. Joseph was one of the initial seven pilot parishes to launch their initiatives in June.

The parish has already exceeded expectations – raising $618,200 of its original $448,000 goal – and the intention is to raise millions more between now and the end of December. Additional funds given by the parish’s 1,500 households will be used toward the first phase of construction of a multipurpose space that will temporarily double as their expanded church.

The celebration at the newly purchased 102-acre parcel on 513 Vision Dr. featured a bilingual Mass, followed by the “Gran Kermés,” which brought together hundreds of parishioners for fun, food and fellowship.

Just before the final blessing at Mass, and prior to parishioners leaving their seats and looking to try one of the many food options, Father Ramiro Tijerino introduced Joe DiPaola, challenge co-chair, who gave an overview of the planning and construction process and passionately encouraged them to give so that they can take the next steps.

“Our Church as we stand and sit here today is a sanctuary, a connection between heaven and earth, where Jesus is present,” DiPaola said.

DiPaola said that while the parish has had conversations about building a new church since the 1970s, now is the moment to act. He said the parish has been working with the diocese for the last two years on planning, explaining that they have reached the halfway point in the approval process and hope to be on track to break ground in the fall of 2027 if they hit all future fundraising goals.

“This allows us as a parish community to follow Jesus’ command, make disciples of all and build His Church,” DiPaola said. “Many of us may never get an opportunity to physically build a church.”

In phase one, the parish is planning to build a multipurpose facility and rectory. The planned multipurpose space will accommodate approximately 600 people and will provide a temporary location for Masses while also serving the parish community for baptisms, quinceañeras, weddings and other events. The space is planned to have eight classrooms, office spaces, a commercial kitchen and a temporary sanctuary.

Once the first phase is completed, parking will be double what is offered at the current parish location on West Wainman Avenue.

The second phase of the project will include the permanent location of their new church.

Over the years, the parish has raised approximately $4.6 million, with $2.6 million already invested into the new grounds for land acquisition, site preparation and leveling, environmental compliance and other development-related requirements. The parish estimates that an additional $4 million must be raised over the next five years to push along the development process in Phase 1.

Following the Mass and development announcements, the faithful visited with “Making Room” leaders, where many began making five-year pledges, encouraged along by Father Tijerino. By the end of the day, the “Gran Kermés,” which featured food booths, games for the kids, face painting, electric bull riding, pony rides and a bouncy house, raised $128,600.

“I decided to host this event on the ground because I wanted people to see what we were building,” Father Tijerino said. “It was all really well received by the community.”

According to the pastor, nearly 90% of the 1,500 households at St. Joseph Parish are Hispanic, and he is working to try to help families understand the value of a faithful donation. Pledges made so far have ranged from $50 to $800 per month.

“We come from countries where the processes are different, so it might make people wonder why it takes so long,” said Tijerino. “The idea with this was to help them understand that this is an investment.”

—  Brian Segovia

He officially had retired on July 1 after 23 years as pastor at the North Wilkesboro parish and was looking back at his years of service in the diocese and considering what he will do next.

“I’ve loved everywhere I served in the Diocese of Charlotte,” he said. “I never wanted to leave a place where I was when I got a new assignment, but then I always loved the new place once I got there. Every place I’ve been, something terrific has happened.”

This year, Father Hanic became one of several priests from around the Diocese of Charlotte who started their retirement journeys.

After their many years of service to the faithful in western North Carolina, they will now be among the clergy benefited by the annual diocesan collection for the Priests’ Retirement and Benefits Plan, set to be taken up in all parishes the weekend of Sept. 19-20.

A dream come true

Every priest who retires has his own story of the journey that led him to serving God.

Father Hanic’s is special because he thought his lifelong dream of priesthood would never come true.
An initial stint at seminary in his home state of Massachusetts didn’t work out because he had a problem learning Latin, so he left and took a different life path – marriage, working at Sears and becoming father to a son and a daughter.

After the marriage ended in divorce, he was a single parent and worked as secretary at his home parish.

Then, in the mid-1970s, he thought about becoming a deacon, but couldn’t find a diocese with a program. He visited Bishop Michael Begley in Charlotte to inquire and got an answer he never expected. The diocese had no permanent deacon program at the time, but Bishop Begley instead told him, “You’re going to study to be a priest for me.”

He was allowed to attend seminary in Massachusetts to be with his family, and then in 1983, he moved his children to North Carolina to begin his life of service in parishes.

As pastor of Our Lady of Mercy in Winston-Salem, he helped establish its RCIA program (now OCIA), an experience he loved because it helped him learn to shepherd people on their journey to the Church.

At Our Lady of Assumption Church in Charlotte, he worked on efforts to build a new church. Other assignments included St. James in Hamlet, St. Joseph of the Hills in Eden and chaplaincy at Holy Trinity Middle School.

Finally, he arrived at St. John the Baptist de La Salle in North Wilkesboro at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and its mission, St. Stephen in Elkin. There, he said, he found both a physical and spiritual home and loved watching the growth of the vibrant Hispanic community.

The campus bears many landmarks of his years there, including a building where hundreds gather for Mass in Spanish every Sunday.

Along a wooded road that leads to the house where he lives, a rustic wooden statue of St. John de La Salle, the parish’s patron saint, stands surrounded by trees. Father Hanic asked a parishioner who did woodwork to craft it from a large tree that was felled by a tornado that came through town several years ago.

Over the years, he collected many sacred objects with special meaning to him – chalices, religious artwork and the vestments he was packing on that day in July in an effort to clear space for the new parochial administrator, Father Engelbert Ofon.

The packing brought back memories of some of the priest friends he made over the years, including the late Monsignor Anthony Marcaccio, former pastor of St. Pius X in Greensboro.

“Anthony always loved the vestments I had and I loved his,” he said.

Father John Hanic, talked about sacred art that holds special meaning to him, the joy of fishing trips and reflected on his journey to the priesthood as he prepared to retire as pastor of St. John De La Salle Parish in North Wilkesboro. (Troy C. Hull | Catholic News Herald)

Fishing in the future

Retirement does not mean Father Hanic is slowing down, nor will he be confined by the borders of North Wilkesboro.

He is pursuing one of his lifelong passions – fishing. He grew up hunting and fishing with his father in Massachusetts and brought the love of the outdoors with him to North Carolina.

In a way of celebrating his retirement, he has planned two fishing trips. One, to Alaska in September, will keep up a more than 20-year tradition of traveling to the state to catch salmon.

“I love catching them – they’re the most spectacular fish!” he said. But he’s not a fan of eating salmon, so he ships back what he catches and shares it with others at the parish.

Later in the year, he hopes to take a trip to Belize to pursue his dream of catching a sailfish.

During retirement, he will continue to live in North Wilkesboro near the parish where he served the longest and serve where and when he can – celebrating Masses, visiting the sick, and sharing the love of Christ with others in the midst of the phase he calls “a new adventure.”

— Christina Lee Knauss

Rachel Campos-Duffy, co-host of “FOX & Friends Weekend,” author and nationally recognized pro-life advocate, will be the featured speaker at the Proudly Pro-Life Gala. A former cast member on MTV’s “The Real World,” the mother of nine children – including a daughter with Down syndrome – is an advocate for faith, family and the dignity of every human life.

St. Mark parishioner Dr. Matthew Harrison will receive the Proudly Pro-Life Award at the gala. Harrison, whose son is High Point University Campus Minister Father Matthew Harrison, is being honored for his pioneering work in abortion pill reversal. He is credited with saving the first baby whose mother took an abortion pill by developing a reversal protocol using the hormone progesterone. His work has offered hope to many women seeking a second chance after beginning a chemical abortion.

N.C. Right to Life is a Greensboro-based organization that supports the sanctity of life from conception through natural death. It advocates for pro-life legislation, hosts events for young people, provides speakers for events, and educates voters about pro-life issues. The non-sectarian organization is led by President Dr. Bill Pincus, a parishioner at St. Joseph Church in Asheboro.

“This gala is more than a fundraising event,” said Anne Carmichael, senior fundraising strategist for the organization. “It is an opportunity to celebrate lives saved, honor courageous leadership and inspire the next generation of pro-life advocates.”

— Catholic News Herald

More online
At www.ncrtl.org: Purchase tickets or sponsorships

Room at the Inn is providing scholarships for mothers in their program to take CNA and other medical classes, giving them the career skills they need to take care of themselves and their families (Lisa Geraci)

“A lot of the (graduates) are already working and independent. We are seeing full transformations,” reported Angie Lukhard, RATI’s associate director of education/training.

The mothers come to RATI homeless and jobless with nowhere to turn, their dreams of being able to provide for their children barred by obstacles.

“A lot of single moms don’t have money for childcare or transportation. We provide both,” Lukhard said. “We are the family they never had. We are their support system.”

Success stories

That was true for Terri Ethridge, who holds her infant as she watches the new students typing away. She was sitting at that same table months ago. Now she is a certified CNA and a licensed phlebotomist.

She came to RATI in desperation at 32. “I was pregnant and homeless when I called Room at the Inn,” Ethridge said. “The pregnancy was a surprise that all came at the wrong time.”

Before her pregnancy she barely scraped by, and then found herself on the streets.

“It all got to a point where I couldn’t keep up and life happened,” she said. “I didn’t have anyone to depend on really except God and then the Room at the Inn.”

When she heard about the CNA program, she was staying at RATI’s Mary Nussbaum Maternity Home and thought it sounded like an unbelievable opportunity.

“I never thought I would be in the healthcare field,” she said. “I always knew I wanted to help people. I just didn’t know the avenue.”

Now Ethridge is on a path to independence.

The path home

RATI’s third CNA session started this summer with 17 enrollees.

Before starting coursework, they bring their little packages of joy to the RATI volunteer center in Kernersville’s trained staff.

The students start their journey at RATI, then proceed to labs at Arise Health Training Institute in High Point and ultimately end with clinicals at nearby Pennybyrn.

Upon graduation, staff, excited to see the graduated placed, assist them with resume building and interview skills.

“We are trying to get them to a place where they are independent and can take care of themselves and their family,” Lukhard said.

In her graduation gown, Ethridge stood on the stage as she held her most prized possession – the six-month-old boy.

“On the inside I am at peace. I feel more grounded and more confident,” she said. “This has strengthened me and my soul.”

She just bought a home, and her baby and RATI brought her smile back, she said.

“Seeing the pride on their faces, and watching them learn is so rewarding,” Lukhard said.

A founder with a mission

Albert Hodges, founder of Room at the Inn and Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church parishioner, tirelessly fights against abortion and childhood poverty.

“If you are going to be a pro-life community, you can’t be just against abortion, you have to help these women,” he said. “You want to help them find what they want to be … because then they invest in it and you give them hope.”

North Carolina ranks 14th in the nation for childhood poverty, according to the NC Budget and Tax Center. Compounded by the 1990s decline in the textile industry, the 2008 recession, and a shift away from agriculture, the problem has lasted for decades.

Roughly one in five children live in poverty, with more than 504,000 facing food insecurity, according to Feeding America.

Typically food insecurity is fought with food drives and government support, but some, like Hodges, are investing in the person. Hope and education are the path to long-term sustainability, he said.

Surrounding mothers with life coaches, spiritual directors and teachers, RATI removes stumbling blocks that prevent growth.

“This gives them the opportunity to have a career where they can support their families and have some pride. Now they are being who the Lord called them to be,” Hodges said.

— Lisa M. Geraci

The new sacristy cabinet at Our Lady of the Annunciation Church was inspired by its pastor’s visit to a church in South Carolina.

Last year, Father Fitzgibbons officiated at the wedding of a parishioner’s daughter at a South Carolina church where he saw a beautiful and organized sacristy cabinet that left him a bit envious.

“I realize that they probably did not have a lot of money back when they put ours in,” he said of the original 1971 sacristy cabinet at Our Lady of the Annunciation, “but it did not give the respect it should have for the items that it contained – the blessed vestments, consecrated ciborium and chalices.”

Father Fitzgibbons brought back photos of the cabinet, talked it over with staff and mentioned it to parishioners, who quickly stepped up to donate. He then turned to King Richard’s Liturgical Design & Contracting in Roswell, Georgia, who had crafted a Baptismal font for the church in 2006.

Working from those photos and Father Fitzgibbons’ suggestions, the company designed and crafted a cabinet from solid white oak. The piece is 7.3 feet high, 7 feet wide and 30 inches deep and includes space to hang vestments, a 4-foot-wide section of drawers, and storage designed to accommodate the sacred pieces it holds. King Richard’s team assembled the pieces on site in June, and it is already making a difference in the daily life of the parish by better organizing the sacristy.

While it’s not a highly visible space, Father Fitzgibbons said the cabinet is a piece of sacred art fitting for a room set apart for the priest to prepare the sacred vessels.

“Churches are supposed to be places of beauty considering what they contain,” he said. “That is the most beautiful thing in the world – Jesus Christ.”

— Trish Stukbauer

The classroom of St. Gabriel’s PACE teacher Nicole Walton is filled with smiles and laughter as students absorb lessons geared toward the way they learn best. (Lisa M. Geraci)

“They see what your kid CAN do, and they capitalize on that,” said Anna Friemel, parent of Walker, a student enrolled in the program. “They can do things. It’s just a little different.”

PACE stands for Providing an Appropriate Catholic Education, and for the Friemel and Campbell families, the difficult challenge of finding a Catholic education for their children led them to Greensboro – a place they likely would have never known existed if not for St. Gabriel’s PACE.

Now, among the nine students in special education teacher Nicole Wilton’s multi-sensory classroom for children K-3, Walker Friemel and Austin Campbell learn, socialize and practice their faith, all in the same building as their siblings.

The children move about freely. Sometimes they take a break to spin in circles, give hugs or pretend they are dinosaurs, but in general they work at their skill level. Some sit on bean bags happily fidgeting while reading 4th-grade science magazines, while the others work on gluing colorful alphabet puzzles together. The classroom incorporates flexible seating, movement breaks, and sensory supports based on individual student needs.

“We meet them where they are and go from there,” Wilton said.

Austin and Walker returned from classes they attend with their grade-level peers. Before sprinting to the soft couches, they made a beeline for the visitors in the room – their moms.

Mothers Katy Campbell and Anna Friemel hugged them and smiled – still overjoyed by their progress.

Walker spied Father Casey Coleman in the corner and yelled, “Get to Mass, Father Coleman!”

Everyone laughed – a laugh that never would have happened two years before.

Chris and Anna Friemel moved 800 miles from their home in Central Arkansas to give Walker better educational opportunities.

The Arkansas travelers

Chris and Anna Friemel are 800 miles from their hometown in Central Arkansas with no regrets.

Walker, their 7-year-old son with autism, attended Catholic school in Arkansas, but the lack of special programs meant he was unable to thrive.

“How could I go to church on Sunday and teach our neurotypical daughter that we are to love everyone and see them for what they can do, and then turn around and tell her that there is no place for Walker?” Anna Friemel cried at the memory. “We really just needed a miracle, somebody to serve both of our children at the same school, and to see them for what they can do.”

Chris Friemel, who was in Greensboro for business, met Father Casey Coleman at Our Lady of Grace Church. He confided in the pastor that they were pouring resources into Walker’s education to no avail.

Father Coleman shared the St. Gabriel’s PACE program’s successes, and Chris carried that news home to his wife. They followed Father Coleman’s advice and started praying. Months later,

Chris Friemel was offered a transfer to Greensboro.

Both children started school in August of 2025 and are thriving.

“This is a divine program. Just the fact that our children are seen the same. There is just so much support,” Anna Friemel said.

 The students are part of the larger school and faith community.

From Washington to Greensboro

Katy Campbell homeschooled her son, Austin, who has autism, when they lived in Washington state but wasn’t making progress. When she tried to enroll him in her local parish school, he was rejected.

“They’d tell everyone every kid deserved a Catholic school education,” Katy said. “To show up and be made to feel like it was ‘every child except yours’ – that was a major emotional gut punch.”

One day, Katy’s sister randomly called and said she was transferring to Greensboro.

“I had no idea where Greensboro was, but I started researching, and then I saw this Catholic school program for autistic children,” she said.

Excitedly, she left her four children with her husband and drove 2,325 miles to Greensboro.

“It only took me four days, but I was driving like 10 hours a day,” she laughed. “I walked in the school, and they gave me a tour. I was instantly impressed.”

It was all she needed. They moved, fueled by their faith in God and love for their children.

Two years later, they are part of a loving faith community at Our Lady of Grace and a school where all their children can thrive.

“The dream is for all Catholic schools to have something like this, but until we get there, sensitivity, deep listening and compassion go a long way,” she said.

What every student deserves

According to the CDC, 1 out of 36 children nationally is diagnosed with autism. Out of those, only 1%-2% attend private schools, the majority attending public schools, due to the national shortage of specialized programs.

Principal Catherine Rusch has prioritized the growth of St. Gabriel’s, OLG’s continuum of support for students with diverse learning needs. Through St. Gabriel’s PACE and St. Gabriel’s Quest, approximately 40 students are now served across the school.

“This is the way God wants us to live,” Rusch said. “The dignity of the human being isn’t about picking the human beings you want to include. It is about recognizing the dignity of every person, from conception to natural death, no matter how God made them.”

— Lisa M. Geraci

Directed by Christopher Pike, “Scars on the Mountain” spotlights the devastation Helene brought to the state’s mountain regions when it hit in late September 2024, with a particular focus on Yancey County, its county seat of Burnsville, and other nearby areas such as Green Mountain and Egypt. The film depicts the fury of the storm on the day of its arrival and then focuses on recovery efforts, drawing on firsthand accounts from survivors, emergency workers and volunteers. Resilience and faith are two of the film’s main themes.

Yancey County, located about 30 miles northeast of Asheville, is home to Sacred Heart Church in Burnsville, a mission of St. Andrew Church in Mars Hill. In the storm’s aftermath, both churches became important supply hubs, distributing thousands of items to storm survivors including water, diapers, food and toiletries. Through the Sister Parish program that the Diocese of Charlotte ran, Sacred Heart was also partnered with Holy Family Parish in Clemmons and Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral in Raleigh to receive long-term aid.

Pike has said the film not only tells the story of the storm and its aftermath, but also presents a vision of what happens when people come together to work through a natural disaster and its aftermath.

“For me, it’s a quiet meditation on what America could be – not the loud fractured version we so often see, but something more enduring and essential: a country where strength is not measured by power or politics, but by our willingness to care for one another,” he said.

 — Christina Lee Knauss

How to watch
At www.angel.com/watch/scars-on-the-mountain: Learn about the film and sign up for Angel Guild membership to stream it.

More than 8,244 students return to schools from Asheville to Charlotte to Greensboro starting this week, with most of the diocese’s 20 schools at or near capacity following years of steady growth.

Bishop Michael Martin urged them and their parents via a series of video messages to put Jesus at center of their lives and to share Him with others in their classrooms and communities. His uplifting message “let them hear your voice” set the tone for a new academic year filled with faith, fellowship and a love of learning.

Read about some improvements and upgrades at the Catholic schools. 

— Photos by Troy C. Hull, Brian Segovia, Lisa M. Geraci, Christina Knauss, Kevin Eagan and provided 

Holy Trinity Catholic Academy

Holy Trinity Catholic Academy’s eighth graders kicked off their school year this morning with a warm welcome from Principal Kevin Parks. The newly named academy will welcome seventh-graders on Tuesday, followed by sixth-graders on Wednesday.

The diocese’s only standalone middle school has a new name to reflect its new approach. Holy Trinity Catholic Academy in Charlotte has begun its transition toward blending the advantages of single-sex and co-ed classes for a more tailored educational experience. 

Our Lady of the Assumption School

St. Matthew School

 All smiles as students return to St. Matthew School in Charlotte for the new school year. 

St. Michael School

 The sound of “Happy first Day!” greeted parents and students alike as St. Michael School teachers and staff welcomed everyone back for the 2026-27 school year in Gastonia.

Charlotte Catholic High School

Charlotte Catholic High School is completing the first phase of an $8.5 million program of improvements that include upgrading the football field and sideline to premium artificial turf and renovating its media center into a multi-faceted student life center. Charlotte Catholic has also been raising money to help transform a recently acquired building next to the campus into a Computer, Technology and Engineering Innovation Center, which will house career and technical education. Telford said work on that project is expected to begin this fall. 

Across the diocese 

Before speaking with students, Bryan reflected on the role his Catholic faith has played in his journey from athletics to co-founder of the Lay Mission Institute, an apostolate devoted to inspiring lay Catholics. A former UC Berkeley gymnast, Bryan found success on NBC’s reality show where competitors tackle complex obstacle courses.

He became known as “The Papal Ninja” due to his yellow and white wardrobe emblazoned with the papal crest and his desire to use his platform to convey a deeper message. He encouraged students to recognize that their talents can serve a purpose beyond personal achievement.

“The gift of faith isn’t just about me and Jesus,” Bryan said. “It’s about walking and doing with Him, and you can’t ask for anything better than that.”

During a school-wide question-and-answer session, students eagerly quizzed Bryan about everything from how long he has been an athlete to the challenges he has faced in competition. The conversation also included lighter moments, including a student challenging Bryan to a push-up contest.

Bryan welcomed the questions and interacted with the students enthusiastically, giving them an opportunity to learn about the discipline required to become an elite athlete. He taught that success is not simply about physical strength. It also requires commitment, patience and the willingness to keep moving forward when obstacles arise, he said.

The event offered St. Ann students a glimpse into the world of American Ninja Warrior while imparting a deeper lesson about faith and using one’s gifts with purpose.

—Troy C. Hull

Bishop Michael Martin joined school officials, diocesan staff, students, parents and benefactors for the blessings and ceremony, which included prayer, Scripture readings and reflections.

Michael Seeley, the new president of Charlotte Catholic, remarked on what the improvements mean for the school’s tight-knit community.

“Today is about much more than a remodeled building and new turf,” Seeley said. “Today is about the people of our Charlotte Catholic community. It’s about the people who had a vision for what Charlotte Catholic could and can become…the people who believed in that vision enough to invest in it, and about the young people who will make memories here for years to come.”

Seeley started his position while the premium turf was being placed and work on the student life center, located in the former library space, was going on.

“When I arrived at Charlotte Catholic this summer, one of the things that struck me immediately was the strength of this community,” Seeley said. “There is a deep affection and passion for this school, a pride in its history, a commitment to its Catholic identity and a genuine belief that what happens here matters.”

He noted that the field, which will serve sports ranging from football to lacrosse and soccer, offers something for every student: “A freshman who’s not sure she belongs finds a team. A kid who has never been pushed that hard finds out what he is capable of…a group of teenagers learns that they are responsible to somebody other than themselves.”

The Student Life Center, which offers expansive space for collaboration as well as quiet spots for individual study, will be “a place for students to gather…to connect …to serve … to build community.”

Bishop Martin talked about the Aug. 21 football game he attended and the fan excitement he saw. He noted that he met a group of students who were enjoying the Friday night game and then had to get up the next morning to take SATs in preparation for college. That kind of commitment, he said, illustrates the life Catholic students should try to live.

“Don’t’ be afraid of hard things and don’t think are the last hard things you’re going to have to do,” he said. “Throughout our lives, Jesus invites us to the cross … Learn that and embrace it the way Jesus did. Say ‘I’m willing to do what’s hard for the sake of a greater glory.’”

After the ribbon-cuttings, a reception was held in the Student Life Center and guests were invited to the new student commons area, which gives students a place to rest and gather during breaks between classes.

Senior Liana Grasso, who is on the dance team and serves as student body vice president, said the improvements have brought a real sense of excitement to the school.

“I honestly can say this is bringing us in the right direction – there’s a fun-filled school spirit vibe,” she said. “You could really tell the excitement the students had when they were around the new football field on Friday night.”

The improvements are being funded by “Grounded in Tradition: Focused on the Future,” an $8.5 million capital campaign launched in February for the multi-phased project. Its next phases will include transforming a small office building adjacent to the campus into the Computer, Technology and Engineering Innovation Center, which will support classes in engineering, robotics and other technologies.

The final phase of the project is a new field house with flexible space for sports performance, recovery and athletics training as well as other classes and activities.

The total cost of the improvements is expected to be $10.5 million, including a $2 million contribution from the Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools Capital Fee. Choate Construction is the contractor of the project and Little and Associates are the architects.

— Christina Lee Knauss. Photos by Troy C. Hull

Eaton brings nearly three decades of experience in Catholic education, serving as a teacher, principal and diocesan leader. She holds a master’s degree in School Leadership from St. Louis University and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Education from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

“I am excited and blessed to serve as the next principal of St. Matthew Catholic School,” Eaton said. “Throughout my years in Catholic education, I have been grateful for the opportunity to help students grow academically and in their faith. I look forward to partnering with the faculty, staff and families of St. Matthew as we continue the tradition of educating saints and scholars.”

Eaton previously served as Director of Educational Services for the Diocese of Des Moines, supporting schools in curriculum development, professional learning and student services.

From 2011-2014, she was principal of St. Patrick Catholic School in Perry, Iowa. She led the led the school as it grew from 85 to 125 students, strengthened academic programs and built community partnerships. In 2014, she served as the first principal of St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School in Ankeny, Iowa, guiding the school through its early development and growth until 2019.

She then returned to her roots, working with students scoring below grade-level in math and reading and the teachers who support them as an interventionist/student support teacher at St. Anthony Catholic School in Des Moines. There, she was also a member of the St. Anthony Leadership Team.

“It was clear from our first conversations that Mrs. Eaton has a real love for her faith and a genuine joy in working with children,” said Dr. Greg Monroe, the diocesan superintendent of schools, “and she will be a great fit for our school system with her past experiences and skillset.”

The search for a new principal at St. Matthew began Jan. 1, when Kevin O’Herron, who served as principal for 27 years of the school’s 33-year history became assistant superintendent of schools for the diocese. Suzanne Beasley, who stepped in as interim principal, will continue her leadership as assistant principal.

“I am grateful to Mrs. Beasley for her steady leadership as interim principal over these many months, and to the search committee for the time, prayer, and discernment they gave to helping us land the next principal of St. Matthew,” Monroe said. “I look forward to working closely with Mrs. Eaton as we build on the great legacy and traditions of St. Matthew and keep pursuing excellence as we look to the future.”

— Trish Stukbauer 

Students honored their heritage by wearing traditional attire at Mass Thursday, showing the richness of a community united in faith. The celebration continued with a food tasting featuring flavors from around the world.

The week was a joyful reminder that while we come from many places, we are one in Christ.

— Troy C. Hull

The Sophia Institute for Teachers was founded in 2013 to renew and rebuild Catholic culture through service to Catholic education.

The Institute’s Master Teacher Council recognizes teachers and administrators nationwide who demonstrate exceptional instructional expertise, strong student outcomes and a proven ability to mentor and support fellow educators.

Members serve as instructional leaders, content experts and partners to teachers seeking to grow in pedagogical skill.

Charlie McKinney, president of the Sophia Institute, explained, “Selection to the Sophia Master Teacher Council reflects both professional excellence and a deep commitment to strengthening Catholic education through mentorship, collaboration and faithful witness.”

At a time when Catholic educators face increasing academic expectations, cultural pressures and the responsibility of forming students in faith and reason, the Sophia Master Teacher Council provides concrete, classroom-tested support by offering mentorship, practical resources and real-time guidance that strengthens and develops teachers and the students they serve.
— Catholic News Herald

Created with an estate gift of $1.2 million by the late George Warren Pitman, scholarships from the George Pitman Endowment Fund are available to college-bound applicants who live in Mecklenburg County or the City of Dunn.

Pitman was a renowned designer who operated his firm, George Pitman Inc., from his home for more than 30 years until his death in 2007 at the age of 79. He was a graduate of Mount St. Mary’s College in Maryland and the Bright School of Design in Chicago.

Through the scholarship fund, college-bound Catholic students may apply for renewable scholarships of up to $3,000, with award amounts based on the type of institution they attend, including two-year, four-year and vocational schools.

Of the 20 scholarship recipients this year, six are first-time recipients attending N.C. State University, UNC Wilmington, the University of Alabama, The Catholic University of America, Elon University and Western Carolina University. The remaining 14 students received renewable scholarships and attend UNC Chapel Hill, the University of South Carolina, the University of Notre Dame, Auburn University, the University of Tennessee, Denison University, American University and Clemson University.

“Mr. Pitman’s transformative gift continues to benefit Catholic students to attend a college or university of their choice,” said Jim Kelley, diocesan director of development.

“We are thankful for the generosity of more and more people across the diocese who are remembering the Church in their estate plans. Those gifts – from thousands to millions – have a tremendous impact on the lives of students.”

Since its inception in 2018, the Pitman Scholarship Fund has awarded $273,000 in scholarships.

Donors like Pitman who make a planned gift to the diocese or one of its parishes, schools, ministries or agencies become members of the Catholic Heritage Society, which now includes more than 1,800 members.

— Courtney McLaughlin

The annual Book Battle sees teams of students from Catholic schools face off against each other at MACS Fine Arts Center at Charlotte Catholic High School. It’s similar to Quiz Bowl, a national competition that tests knowledge of general academic subjects. The difference is these questions are focused on literature – a book lover’s dream.

Dru Edwards, a fourth-grader at Sacred Heart School in Salisbury, said the contest helped him get out of his reading comfort zone.

“I like reading, and through this I read a lot of books I would not normally have been interested in, but discovered were really good,” Edwards said.

The St. Jerome Book Battle was created by the diocesan Catholic Schools Office to encourage students to read books “that promote the true, the good and the beautiful and foster growth in virtue.”

Each school year, lists of 15 books are provided for fourth- and fifth-grade students and sixth- through eighth-graders. Guided by team coaches, the students spend months reading the books and participating in activities to increase their understanding of the works.

This year’s lists featured everything from historical and adventure novels to fantasy and mystery offerings, and two books focused on the lives of famous Catholic saints.

All of the books explore important themes such as faith, family, resilience, community, friendship and loyalty.

For Monday’s Book Battle, each school sent one team of 12 students who were asked questions about their books and awarded points for their answers. Teams compete against each other in preliminary rounds. The two highest scoring teams from the preliminary rounds compete head-to-head in a championship round.

Defending fourth and fifth grade champion St. Ann School edged out St Mark in a sudden death match to reach the championship round. St. Ann then won first place in today’s competition, with Our Lady of the Assumption School as the runner-up. Holy Trinity Middle School in Charlotte won the middle school competition held on March 9, and the runner-up was St. Mark School in Huntersville.

During a break between rounds, the team from Sacred Heart enjoyed snacks and talked with coach Leigh Yelton about how things were going. A book lover herself, Yelton teaches third grade but volunteered to handle the fourth- and fifth-grade team because it gives her a chance to interact with many of her former students.

“I’ve got a real love for literature and the language arts, so this is a wonderful thing to do,” Yelton said. “It honestly takes a lot of time and effort because our students start by reading the books the previous summer, and then our team meets frequently to prepare for the competition.”
Peyton Bloxsom, 11, a fourth-grader at Sacred Heart, said she enjoys the Book Battle because it not only gives her a chance to read but also to make some new friends.

— Christina Lee Knauss

Interested in reading the books featured in the St. Jerome Book Battle? Here are the books students read for this year’s event:

4th-5th grade reading list:

“A Little Princess” by Frances Hodgson Burnett

“All-of-a-Kind Family” by Sydney Taylor

“The Big Wave” by Pearl S. Buck

“Breaking Stalin’s Nose” by Eugene Yelchin

“The Buried Bones Mystery” by Sharon M. Draper

“The Courage of Sarah Noble” by Alice Dalgliesh

“Fantastic Mr. Fox” by Roald Dahl

“Farmer Boy” by Laura Ingalls Wilder

“The Island of Two Trees” by Brian Kennelly

“The Magician’s Nephew” by C.S. Lewis

“Princess Academy” by Shannon Hale

“Saint Clare of Assisi – Runaway Rich Girl” by Kim Hee-Ju

“Snow Treasure” by Marie McSwigan

“Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” by Grace Lin

“The Wild Robot” by Peter Brown

Middle School:

“100 Cupboards” by N.D. Wilson

“Fever 1793” by Laure Halse Anderson

“Freckles” by Gene Stratton-Porter

“Ghost: Running for His Life, or From It?” By Jason Reynolds

“The Golden Thread: A Novel about St. Ignatius Loyola” by Louis De Wohl

“Guardian Angel House” by Kathy Clark

“I, Juan de Pareja” by Elizabeth Borton de Trevino

“Kon-Tiki” by Thor Heyerdahl

“On the Far Side of the Mountain” by Jean Craighead George

“Out of My Mind” by Sharon M. Draper

“Saving Mount Rushmore” by Andrea Jo Rodgers

“Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster” by Jonathan Auxier

“Swiss Family Robinson” by Johann David Wyss

“Thirst” by Varsha Bajaj

“The Wednesday Wars” by Gary D. Schmidt

• Ad Meliora Endowment Fund: Financial support for facility improvements and beautification initiatives at Christ the King Catholic High School.
• American Schlafhorst Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for students at Charlotte Catholic High School
• Archibong Family Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School students who are African American, Indigenous or students of color.
• Asheville Catholic School Endowment Fund: Financial support to retain quality teachers, offer scholarship assistance, provide continuing education for teachers and enhance the school’s curriculum.
• Joseph and Margaret Baldi Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for children of parishioners at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church to attend St. Leo Catholic School in Winston-Salem.
• Heidi Hogan Bell Memorial Endowment Fund: Provides for the general needs of Charlotte Catholic High School.
• Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School Endowment Fund: Provides for the general needs of this school in Kernersville.
• Joan W. Books Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for children of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church to attend Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville.
• Don and Mary Gay Brady Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Our Lady of Grace Catholic School in Greensboro.
• Elizabeth Allen Brown Endowment Fund: For the general needs of Catholic elementary and secondary schools and Catholic campus ministries in the Asheville area.
• Father Pat Cahill and Michael Miller Endowment Fund for Academic Support: Academic support at Asheville Catholic School.
• Carr and Jurczyk Family Endowment Fund: Faculty member awards at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School.
• Molly Cassidy Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance to parishioners of St. Pius X Church to attend St. Pius X School, both in Greensboro.
• Catholic Education Endowment Fund: Scholarships for students attending Catholic elementary schools in the diocese.
• Charlotte Catholic High School Alumni Association Board Discretionary Endowment Fund: For the general needs of Charlotte Catholic High School at the board’s discretion.
• Charlotte Catholic High School Alumni Association Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarships for graduating seniors to attend a college of their choice.
• Charlotte Catholic High School Endowment Fund: Benefits Charlotte Catholic High School.
• Sister M. Joanice Cohen & Sister M. Elizabeth Fowkes, IHM Endowment Fund: Financial support to promote long-term recruitment, training and development of teachers at Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville.
• Cornelius Alexander Davis II Tuition Assistance Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at St. Leo the Great Catholic School in Winston-Salem.
• Digger Dawson Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for students from Immaculate Conception Catholic Church attending Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville.
• Derhofer Family Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School in Kernersville.
• Deussen Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarships for Catholic high school education in the greater Charlotte area.
• Stephen and Jessica Dey Options Endowment Fund: Benefits the “Options” programs at diocese schools.
• Diocesan Educational Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students within the diocese attending a Catholic elementary or high school.
• Faucette Endowment Fund: Financial assistance for the educational ministry of the diocese’s schools.
• Barbara Fellerhoff and Jim Coddington Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at of Asheville Catholic School.
• FFHL Tuition Assistance Endowment Fund: Established through Forward in Faith, Hope, and Love Diocesan Campaign, this fund provides tuition assistance for Catholic schools in the Diocese of Charlotte.
• Gayden and Janell Gauthier Family Endowment Fund: Technology and infrastructure updates and tuition assistance for students of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church to attend Immaculata Catholic School, both in Hendersonville.
• Mary Gay and Don Brady Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for faculty members’ children in the Piedmont-Triad area Catholic schools to attend Bishop McGuiness Catholic High School in Kernersville.
• O’Brien and William Edward Gibbs Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Asheville Catholic School.
• Gismondi Family Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for children of St. Mark Catholic Church parishioners to attend Christ the King Catholic High School in Huntersville.
• Bobby Grant Memorial Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students attending Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School in Kernersville.
• Megan Healy Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for students at St. Patrick Catholic School in Charlotte.
• Edith and George Hilbert Endowment Fund: Financial support for the education of students at Asheville Catholic School.
• Holy Family Catholic Church Scholarship Endowment Fund: Catholic school tuition assistance (K-12) for members of Holy Family Catholic Church in Clemmons.
• Holy Trinity Catholic Middle School Endowment Fund: Supports the general needs of Holy Trinity Catholic Middle School.
• Immaculata Catholic School Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for students at this school in Hendersonville.
• Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at this school in High Point.
• Roger Kavanagh Tuition Assistance Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at St. Pius X Catholic School in Greensboro.
• Knights of Columbus 11911 of St. Eugene for Asheville Catholic School Endowment Fund: For the general needs of this school.
• Isaac A. Kohl Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship for students matriculating from St. Pius X Catholic School to Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School.
• Leeolou Family Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools families.
• LeFeber Endowment: General needs of Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville.
• LoBianco Family Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students attending diocesan Catholic schools.
• Alexander and Brenda Lyerly Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for children with financial need to attend Catholic schools in the Diocese of Charlotte.
• Lorraine J. Malphurs Endowment Fund: Student testing fees at St. Pius X Catholic School in Greensboro.
• Manley Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students of families at St. Eugene Catholic Church to attend Asheville Catholic School.
• Catherine McAuley Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarships to Catholic students attending Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools.
• Bryant McDermott Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance to students of Charlotte Catholic High School and Holy Trinity Middle School in Charlotte.
• Francis J. McGrail Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance to students of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School in High Point.
• Leonard F. McGinley Family Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for children of Holy Family Catholic Church in Clemmons.
• Lee McGuiness Endowment Fund: Benefits the Charlotte Catholic High School Alumni Association.
• Sandy McMonagle Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School in Winston-Salem.
• Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools (MACS) Education Endowment Fund: Assistance to the nine MACS schools in the Charlotte area.
• Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools (MACS) Special Needs Endowment Fund: For MACS’ students with special needs.
• Dr. Stanley Michalski Jr. Endowment Fund: Assistance for the MACS band programs.
• Katelyn Mitchell Student Athlete Scholarship Endowment Fund: For the benefit of a student-athlete in sixth, seventh or eighth grade at St. Pius X Catholic School in Greensboro.
• Eleanor C. Murphy Educational Trust Scholarship Endowment Fund: Provides scholarships for students from Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Salisbury.
• Monsignor Lawrence C. Newman Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School in Winston-Salem.
• Victor M. Nussbaum Jr. Educational Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at St. Pius X Catholic School in Greensboro.
• Chris and Margaret Onulak Endowment Fund: General needs of Asheville Catholic School.
• Our Lady of Grace School Endowment Fund: General needs of this school in Greensboro.
• Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic School Fund: General needs of this school in Charlotte.
• Poutré Family Endowment Fund: General needs of Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville.
• Quinn Family Endowment Fund: General needs of Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville.
• George L. Repass Memorial Tuition Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School in Kernersville.
• Sister Geri Rogers Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School in Winston-Salem.
• Clark G. Ross Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for Catholic high school students from Catholic parishes in Mecklenburg, Iredell, Cabarrus and Rowan counties.
• Clark G. Ross St. Therese Catholic Church Scholarship Endowment Fund: Assistance for college age parishioners at St. Therese Catholic Church in Mooresville.
• Ruggieri Family Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance at Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School.
• Sacred Heart School Catholic Endowment Fund: General needs of this school in Salisbury.
• Sheridan-Mangan Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Asheville Catholic School.
• Monsignor Joseph S. Showfety Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students enrolled in Catholic grade school or high school and reside in Guilford or Forsyth County.
• Monsignor Joseph S. Showfety Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students of this school.
• Sisters of Mercy Scholarship Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at St. Michael Catholic School in Gastonia.
• Sisters of St. Joseph Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for Bishop McGuinness students.
• Victoria Sleeman Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarships for students of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church to attend Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville.
• Frank Spinks Endowment Fund: Professional development activities for the staff at Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville.
• Mary Spinks Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance to minority students at Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville.
• Michelle Stanley Scholarship Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance at St. Mark Catholic School in Huntersville.
• St. Ann Catholic School Endowment Fund: General needs of this school in Charlotte.
• St. Frances Cabrini Scholarship Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for St. Pius X Catholic School students from first-generation families.
• St. Gabriel Catholic School Endowment Fund: General needs of this school in Charlotte.
• St. Joseph Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for students at Asheville Catholic School.
• St. Lawrence Council (1695) Student Scholarship Endowment Fund: Financial assistance for the educational needs of council members’ and deceased members’ children.
• St. Leo Catholic School Endowment Fund: General needs of this school in Winston-Salem.
• St. Mark Catholic School Endowment Fund: General needs of this school in Huntersville.
• St. Mary’s Catholic Church Scholarship Endowment Fund: Tuition aid for the children of parishioners from St. Mary’s Catholic Church who attend Our Lady of Grace Catholic School or St. Pius X Catholic School, both in Greensboro, or Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School in Kernersville.
•  St. Matthew School Endowment Fund: General needs of this school in Charlotte.
• St. Michael School Endowment Fund: General needs of this school in Gastonia.
• St. Patrick Catholic School Endowment Fund: General needs of this school in Charlotte.
• St. Pius X School Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at this school in Greensboro.
• Michael Sullivan Endowment Fund: For general fine arts department needs at Charlotte Catholic High School or non-profit support compatible with known interest of Michael Sullivan.
• Theresa Lasecki Talbert Scholarship Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School in Kernersville.
• Remo and Carolyn Termini Endowment Fund: Scholarships for students attending Asheville Catholic School.
• John Michael Thompson Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Sacred Heart Catholic School in Salisbury.
• F. Joseph Treacy Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for students in all nine MACS schools.
• Villalon Family Endowment Fund: General needs of Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School.
• Sabrina Watt Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students attending MACS schools.
• Florence B. Werden Memorial Endowment Fund: General needs of Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville.
• Kurtis D. Williams Flight Scholarship Endowment Fund: Flight-related assistance for aviation students at Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School in Kernersville.
• Sister Paulette Williams Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarships for graduating Charlotte Catholic High School seniors to attend a college of their choice.
• Mary Jane Winfrey Endowment Fund: General needs of Asheville Catholic School.
• Woelfel Family Endowment Fund: Students’ educational purposes at Our Lady of Grace Catholic School in Greensboro.
• Wos-Dejoy Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at St. Pius X Catholic School in Greensboro.
• Sister Emma Yondura Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at St. Leo Catholic School in Winston-Salem.

Endowments aid students, schools
Over $9.0 million has been distributed from 106 endowments to directly benefit students and schools.

— Photos provided by St. Leo School

Dr. Carl Semmler is moving from his leadership roles at Christ the King High School in Huntersville into a new administrative position designed to increase collaboration in the diocese’s growing school system. Meanwhile, three recent hires from across the country have been chosen to lead at Christ the King and at Charlotte Catholic High School and St. Matthew School in Charlotte.

Carl Semmler

Semmler, who served as Christ the King’s principal for six years and as president for the past three, will be the diocese’s new executive director of Catholic Identity, Operations and Capital Improvements for Catholic Schools.

He will work closely with leaders across all 20 Catholic schools to strengthen Catholic identity, support school operations, and oversee facilities planning and capital improvement initiatives.

During his tenure at Christ the King, Semmler oversaw the quadrupling of the school’s footprint and a 73% increase in enrollment. He brings 30 years of experience in Catholic education across three dioceses, including more than two decades in educational leadership.

“Dr. Semmler is a respected Catholic educator whose experience, leadership and commitment to our mission have already had a tremendous impact on our diocese,” said Dr. Greg Monroe, superintendent of schools. “Having served successfully as both a principal and president, he understands the opportunities and challenges our schools face each day. I am grateful for his willingness to serve in this new role and know he will be a tremendous resource for our principals and school leaders.”

“We are blessed with exceptional teachers and school leaders, and I look forward to partnering with them as we continue strengthening Catholic education across the Diocese of Charlotte,” Semmler said.

Shaileen Riginos

After a national search, Christ the King looked across the state line to name veteran South Carolina educator Shaileen Riginos as its new president.
Riginos, who is the first female high school president in the diocese, holds a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education and a Master of Arts in educational leadership from Stetson University in DeLand, Florida.

Most recently, she served as associate superintendent for the Diocese of Charleston, where she provided strategic leadership across 32 Catholic schools, supporting pastors, diocesan leaders and school administrators. She previously spent 10 years as principal at St. Anne Catholic School in Rock Hill.

“Christ the King has long been a model of what a thriving Catholic high school can be,” Riginos said. “While leading the expansion of St. Anne Catholic School into the first PK-3 through 12 school in the Diocese of Charleston, I often looked to CTK as an example of strong Catholic identity and student formation. To now have the privilege of serving as its president feels like it is coming full circle.”

“Mrs. Riginos brings broad experience at both the diocesan and school levels, along with strong expertise in strategic planning and relationship building, which will serve the Christ the King community well as the school continues to grow,” Monroe said.

Tonya Eaton

Veteran educator Tonya Eaton has been named principal at St. Matthew School in Charlotte. Eaton brings nearly three decades of experience in Catholic education, serving as a teacher, principal and diocesan leader.

She holds a master’s degree in school leadership from St. Louis University and a Bachelor of Arts in business education from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Eaton previously served as director of educational services for the Diocese of Des Moines, supporting schools in curriculum development, professional learning and student services. In 2014, she served as the first principal of St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School in Ankeny, Iowa, guiding the school through its early development and growth.

“It was clear from our first conversations that Mrs. Eaton has a real love for her faith and a genuine joy in working with children,” Monroe said, “and she will be a great fit for our school system with her past experiences and skillset.”

“I am excited and blessed to serve as the next principal of St. Matthew Catholic School,” Eaton said. “Throughout my years in Catholic education, I have been grateful for the opportunity to help students grow academically and in their faith. I look forward to partnering with the faculty, staff and families of St. Matthew as we continue the tradition of educating saints and scholars.”

Michael Seeley

Charlotte Catholic High School has named Michael Seeley, a long-time education leader and administrator, as its president.

Most recently he was president of the Lafayette Catholic School System in Indiana, where he provided strategic and operational leadership across multiple campuses, overseeing enrollment, advancement, finances, governance and long-range planning.

Seeley has more than two decades of senior leadership experience in both Catholic and independent school settings, including the University of Notre Dame, Phillips Exeter Academy and Culver Academies. He has done extensive work in institutional advancement, admissions and enrollment management, and also worked closely with boards, donors and diocesan leaders.

As president of Charlotte Catholic, Seeley will focus on the school’s long-range planning, community relationships, financial and operational management and fundraising. He will partner in leading the school with longtime principal Kurt Telford.

“I am looking forward to this new chapter, which not only allows me to work with Michael but also to return to my true love of working closely with students and teachers as principal,” Telford said.

Seeley added, “I look forward to working alongside dedicated and passionate students, teachers, staff and families as we fulfill our shared mission to graduate not only scholars and athletes but disciples of Christ.”

— Catholic News Herald and Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Schools Office

Across the diocese, students will be returning to expanded campuses, renovated classrooms and new programs, including the transition to a different stye of learning at Holy Trinity Catholic Academy. (Photos by Troy C. Hull | Catholic News Herald) CHARLOTTE — More than 8,000 students are gearing up to return to Catholic schools across the Diocese of Charlotte beginning Aug. 17, with many to be greeted by improved facilities, new programs, new leaders and new families.Cubbies and lockers will once again be full as students come back to classrooms starting Aug. 17.

The diocese’s only standalone middle school has a new name to reflect its new approach: Holy Trinity Catholic Academy in Charlotte has begun its transition toward blending the advantages of single-sex and co-ed classes for a more tailored educational experience. Other schools from the mountains to the Triad will unveil new athletic and other facilities, including Charlotte Catholic, Christ the King and Bishop McGuinness high schools.

Enthusiasm for Catholic education continues to remain high, school officials said, with enrollment in diocesan schools holding steady. Many schools are near capacity following years of continued growth.

“There is a great deal to be excited about,” said Dr. Greg Monroe, superintendent of Catholic schools. “Our schools are continuing to grow in different ways, but what is most encouraging is the strong culture taking shape across the diocese.”

He stressed the important contribution Catholic schools make in educating both the mind and the spirit of students.

“We have excellent educators, committed families and school leaders who understand that Catholic education is about strong academic achievement – but also about something more. It’s about forming young people in faith, character and wisdom as disciples of Christ.”

In western North Carolina, the second school year after Hurricane Helene is feeling more like a return to normal.

Last year, some school families had to leave to find new homes or employment after residences and businesses were damaged or destroyed, said Margaret Beale, principal of Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville.

This year, “we’re still seeing some impacts, a few school families that are having to move particularly because a parent’s job never came back after the storm, but in general, everything has settled down,” Beale says. “Everything here is busy, and we’re excited to begin the new year.”

The halls at Our Lady of the Assumption in Charlotte are filled with activity as walls get a fresh coat of paint before students return to campus. Many schools took the summer months to upgrade facilities.

What’s new for 2026-27:

Blended education

Holy Trinity Catholic Academy’s shift toward blended education embraces different learning styles to provide students the best of both worlds, school leaders say. Beginning with sixth graders only this year, single-sex instruction will be offered in core classes such as English and math, while co-ed instruction will continue in electives and extracurricular activities. This approach will phase in over three years, with seventh and eighth grade following over the next two years.

The school is also seeing progress on its three-phase, $11.7 million enhancement project. Thanks partly to a grant of more than $1 million from Shea Homes, the existing athletic field has been regraded, and new drainage and synthetic turf will go in this fall, along with lighting and team benches. As part of the project, the fine arts classrooms are being upgraded with modernized flooring, lighting and instructional equipment.

“While our name has changed, our mission remains the same,” said Kevin Parks, who is beginning his second year as Holy Trinity president after 17 years as principal. “Our new name reflects our enduring commitment to academic excellence, intentional faith formation, and preparing students to lead with confidence, compassion and integrity.”

Parks will work alongside Principal Robert “Bobby” Conrad, beginning his second year in the role, to see that the exciting changes are successful.

At St. Ann School in Charlotte, crews work to complete audiovisual and lighting improvements in the gym and to install acoustic panels in the cafeteria.

Upgrades at high schools

Charlotte Catholic High School is completing the first phase of an $8.5 million program of improvements that include upgrading the football field and sideline to premium artificial turf and renovating its media center into a multi-faceted student life center. Both will be ready for students’ return, said Kurt Telford, who is returning to his role as principal after a two-year stint as head of school. Michael Seeley joins Telford as the school’s president, a role that focuses on long-range planning, community relationships, financial and operational management and fundraising.
Charlotte Catholic has also been raising money to help transform a recently acquired building next to the campus into a Computer, Technology and Engineering Innovation Center, which will house career and technical education. Telford said work on that project is expected to begin this fall.

Christ the King High School in Huntersville will have a new playing surface for its athletic field with expanded bleachers that seat more than 1,000 people, as well as new restrooms and better accessibility. Teams will begin using the new facilities this fall, and a ribbon-cutting is set for Sept. 11.

“Everything is going along better than ‘according to plan,’’’ said Principal Mark Tolcher. “It’s going along great!”

Work is progressing on its $12 million expansion that will increase the school’s footprint by 21,000 square feet to 73,271. The project includes adding a new entry to the gym and a north lobby equipped with concession stands, ticketing booths and a Crusaders Spirit Store for the school’s athletics, band, musical and theatrical events.

Other perks include an expanded weight training area, a chorus and band studio, two additional classrooms, an industrial design workspace and a larger cafeteria with a full kitchen to prepare meals on site. The expansion is expected to be completed after Christmas break.

“The expansion offers us not just an increased footprint but also the ability to offer different programming and an enhanced education experience for both students and faculty,” Tolcher said.

Bishop McGuinness High School is hitting a milestone this year with enrollment reaching more than 500 students for the first time in about 15 years, said President Jared Rashford.

After a successful start last year, Bishop McGuinness is also expanding its St. Gabriel Program, which serves students with intellectual disabilities, to cater to a broader range of learners.

“Through individualized instruction, dedicated teachers and an expanded peer partner program that fosters both academic and social inclusion, we are helping students with diverse learning needs become fully integrated members of the Bishop McGuinness community,” said Principal Claire Willis.

Improvements to the school’s athletic facilities are expected to be complete by the end of August, including construction of six lighted tennis courts and outdoor restrooms and picnic facilities,

Rashford said. The gym floor was replaced and seating increased to accommodate about 800. New flooring is also being laid in the chapel, and the chairs are being reupholstered.

Students from Charlotte Catholic High School help volunteers from St. Gabriel donate used furniture to classrooms in need.

Other summer projects:

Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville recently began renovations of the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton House on Oakland Avenue, adjacent to the campus. It serves as home for Principal Beale and several religious sisters and eventually will be used to house teaching interns.

St. Gabriel School donated two truckloads of furniture to schools in need as it updated its classrooms with furniture that adapts to varied uses. Students at St. Patrick School in Charlotte will return to classrooms with gleaming restored wooden floors. Over the summer, carpet in all the classrooms was removed and the original cedar floors, which are more than 90 years old, were restored, said Principal Nicholas Calametti.

At St. Gabriel School, students are returning to new furniture in 14 classrooms, a retiled lobby floor and ongoing athletic field improvements including a new track, new sod and an irrigation system, said Assistant Principal Deven Dickerson.

St. Leo School in Winston-Salem underwent a $2.2 million replacement of its roof and HVAC system. “It is a major project that has long been needed, and it is expected to be done before school starts,” said Emmett Sapp, director of construction and real estate for the Diocese of Charlotte.

St. Mark School in Huntersville replaced the natural turf on its athletic field with artificial turf. The next phase of the project includes installing a playground.

Sacred Heart School in Salisbury is completing an art room funded by a $166,000 Shea Homes grant. To convert a shared space into a fully functional art room, a wall was sealed and soundproofed, storage for art supplies and a sink were incorporated, and interior finishes were upgraded to promote creativity. Existing furniture was replaced with flexible seating to accommodate students of varying ages.

St. Ann School in Charlotte is spotlighting students with audiovisual and lighting enhancements to its performance stage in the gym, as well as the installation of acoustical panels in the cafeteria, all funded by its annual fund.

— Christina Lee Knauss

When school Athletic Director Greg Davidowitz learned Father Angermeyer had played goalie up through high school, he asked the priest to be the assistant coach. 

“I never formally coached soccer but did coach basketball at the seminary,” Father Angermeyer said. “It was a great blessing being with them, seeing them grow as human beings, and watching them be able to complement each other and grow in holiness and virtue. They progressed as soccer players and learned to play as a team.”

The girls liked having a priest coach them, he said.

“It was cool for them to experience a priest in that way, because everyone thinks about us like we are in some kind of box,” Father Angermeyer said. “Like we are exactly a certain way and don’t have interests and hobbies, but that is entirely not true.” 

They called him Father, not coach, and even in 90-degree weather, he wore his cassock through long practices and two-hour games that all began the same.

“We always start in prayer, which is one of our big foundations,” he said. 

All the priests at St. Mark Church make it a point to attend at least one game for every team. 

“We try to have a presence in each domain. We keep telling them that the game is where we show that we are virtuous,” he said. “It helps the kids, they love when the priests come.

But I am very proud of them and the whole experience was a great joy.” 

— Lisa M. Geraci

He won’t be far as he transitions into his new role as executive director of Catholic Identity, Operations and Capital Improvements for the Diocese of Charlotte’s Catholic Schools office.

His fan club of 435 students and 60 staff gobbled down donuts decorated in Crusader colors –  white frosting and blue sprinkles –  while students repeating the pun, “'Donut' know what we’re going to do without you.”

Greg Stump, art teacher and stained-glass artist, designed a memento for Semmler, a commemorative plaque made from Polish blue glass. 

“This is the same glass used to make the St. John Paul II glass window in the chapel, something Dr. Semmler has admired for years,” Stump said. 

Embedded in the glass is the white CTK crest with its mantra, “Crede + Cogita + Servi,” Latin for “Believe, Think, Serve.” 

Although he is leaving the school, Semmler ended the event by reassuring all, “once a Crusader, always a Crusader.”

— Lisa M. Geraci

GREENSBORO — Grandparents filled St. Pius X Church for a morning of laughter, tickles, hugs, and fun during this year's Grandparents’ Day celebration.

With grandchildren by their sides, they prayed a living rosary.

Fifty seventh and eighth grade St. Pius X students represented each bead and led the prayers, offering their individual prayer intentions—most using the occasion to pray for their grandparents present in the church.

Afterward, grandparents followed students down hallways that were covered with appreciation notes and drawings addressed to them.

Grandparents then visited classrooms and watched their little ones sing and dance or sat together while they colored or played games.

— Lisa M. Geraci

“I think Antonette is doing a wonderful job, and I am so proud of her,” Cowan said. “I have two good daughters. Each one of them has such beautiful qualities. The Lord truly blessed me.”

During her stay, Cowan was also able to spend time with her grandchildren – Aguilera's son, John, an 8th grader, and her other grandson.

Cowan loves the feeling she gets every time she steps on the campus of St. Pius X, explaining how it matches the ideals of their hometown of Reggio Calabria, Italy.

“We came from a traditional Italian family, and this school matches so well with Antonette. When she was little, she learned tradition and her Catholic faith. She went to school with the nuns, and this place brings it all together,” Cowan said.

A mother knows best, and Aguilera agrees the Catholic school she attended as a youth in Los Angeles reminds her a lot of St. Pius X.

Yet, instead of mirroring her childhood memories at St. Pius the X, she takes direction from a different inspiration – the late Monsignor Anthony Marcaccio, former pastor of the parish. 

“We make sure Monsignor’s vision for this school is always alive and well,” Aguilera said. “A beautiful campus, a spiritual place—that is what I am trying to create. If I can accomplish that, I feel like I am doing a good thing.”

— Lisa M. Geraci

It was an appropriate sound because the Mass, celebrated by Bishop Michael Martin, was dedicated to homeschooling families, and many of the moms and dads in attendance had multiple babies and small children in tow.

It’s an annual tradition to start the school year that enables homeschool families to get together for worship and fellowship.

A choir made up of homeschool students sang along with the hymns for the day which included “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee,” “Now Thank We All Our God,” “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” and “For the Beauty of the Earth.”

“I’m so grateful for this chance for homeschooling families to come together at the beginning of the school year for the Eucharist,” Bishop Martin told congregants at the beginning of Mass.

Bishop Martin started his homily by asking all the children to raise their hands and then asked if any of them had on a watch. One boy, Kyle Mancuso, 8, raised his hand.

“What time is it Kyle?” the bishop asked. “12:25,” the boy responded.

Bishop Martin used the telling of time as a launching pad to tell the kids about the importance of time in their daily lives: a time to eat, a time to study, a time go to Mass, a time to pray, etc. He reminded them that there are always going to be specific times when they need to do things even if they might not want to, such as do their chores or go to bed. He reminded them that their parents also have to do things at specific times each day, such as wake up and go to work.

All of those things, he said, mean nothing without relying on Christ, whose love transcends time.

“We’re never ever too late to listen to our parents, and we’re never ever too late to listen to Jesus,” Bishop Martin told the children. “Even if we first say ‘no,’ we can still then say ‘yes’ to whatever Jesus wants us to do.”

He told parents that it might be hard for them to keep to a strict schedule all the time, especially if they have infants or toddlers to manage. Despite the stress, he said, never give up on God.

“You’re on some other schedule that is not of your choosing  – simply understand that you can’t schedule a real life,” he said. “Jesus is saying to you to relax. He’s with you all the time. You’re trying to juggle finding children and getting meals together and learning what you need to learn in order to teach your children. Even when you feel like you’re not getting it all done, it’s okay. Turn to Him.”

After Mass, Kyle’s mom Elyse Mancuso stopped on the Cathedral steps with her other four children: Kira, 12; Joshua, 11; Ryan, 6; and Digny, 4. The Mancuso family, who attend St. Gabriel Church in Charlotte, has been homeschooling their children for seven years.

“We wanted to homeschool so we could focus on traditional academics, rigorous academics,” she said. “It gives us a chance to do things like read the classics together as a family. I loved the chance to attend this Mass, especially listening to the choir.”

Kelly Hudspeth drove from Winston-Salem with three of her five children to attend the Mass: Cosette, 12; Arthur, 10; and Torin, 7. The other two – Oliver, 5, and Dorothy, 20 months, were home with her husband Caleb. The family attends Holy Family Church in Clemmons and has been homeschooling for 10 years.

“We homeschool because we want to incorporate our faith in everything our children learn, and also as a way to build up our personal relationships as a family,” Hudspeth said.

The entire family called the homeschool Mass “beautiful” and Cosette offered a positive review: “I especially liked the bishop’s homily!”

— Christina Lee Knauss. Photos by Troy C. Hull