Montgomery Catholic Fourth Grade Class Invited to Decorate the Chancery Tree in Mobile

Father Pat Arensberg, Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi, Principal Laurie Gulley and Mrs. Mary Pears with St. BEde campus fourth grade students: James Bender, Boyd McKinley, Cecilia Crawford, Will Driver, Ailish Gilbert, Mason McCollister, Aidan McNeely, Matthew Reardon, Eathan Binns, Tianna Carr, Samantha Day, Ansley Erhardt, Layne Jordan, Julian Macchia, John McLennan, Will Noell, Samual Rogers and Hart Yost. 

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School's St. Bede campus fourth grade class was invited by Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi to visit Mobile for a special job. The students were in charge of creating the theme and decorating the Chancery Christmas tree. Nineteen students, along with teacher Mrs. Mary Pears, Principal Laurie Gulley and Father Pat Arensberg took a chartered bus to Mobile on Tuesday, December 10. The class was greeted by Archbishop Rodi on the steps of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on South Claiborne Street where they were given a tour and history lesson by the Archbishop. The lesson included the founding of the Cathedral, an explanation of the stained glass windows which all depict scenes referencing the role of Mary in the life of Jesus from the New Testament.

After the tour, the group made their way to the Chancery to decorate the tree with student made decorations in the class theme of "The Legend of the Candy Cane". Every ornament involved the candy cane in some way, reminding all, the real reason we celebrate Christmas. After Principal Gulley successfully topped the tree, the Archbishop treated the students with chocolate milk and cookies. Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Gwen Byrd, the staff from the Office of Religious Education and the Office of Catholic Schools for the Archdiocese of Mobile, joined the group for the sweet treat.

After a busy morning the students were then invited to have lunch and recess with the fourth grade class at Saint Pius X Catholic School before heading back to Montgomery. The students had a wonderful experience, helping the Archdiocese prepare for Christmas, and safely traveled home, without anyone falling asleep, with the exception of Father Pat.

Montgomery Catholic Elementary Choir Brings Christmas Cheer to Seniors.

The Montgomery Catholic Preparatory Elementary Choir took a field trip to The Crump Senior Center in Montgomery on Friday, December 13. Students from the MCPS St. Bede and Holy Spirit Campuses spread Christmas joy by singing Christmas Carols in Santa hats for a group of Seniors at the Center. Led by teachers and choir leaders Mrs. Ellie Burden and Mrs. Mary Pears, the students were accompanied by piano and guitar played by Mrs. Sharon Stark.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School St. Bede campus choir members, (front row L to R) Nathan Manning, Nick Calandra, Danielle Willcox, (second row L to R) Cacey Williams, Alex Snowden,  Ainsley Harrison, Cecelia Crawford sing at the Crump Senior Center spreading Christmas cheer.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Holy Spirit campus choir members at the Crump Senior Center (front row L to R) Kara Sugiyama, Emily Klinger, Camryn Cool, Blair Huffman, (back right)
Katie Sugiyama.

Montgomery Catholic Racing Knights Jingle for a Cause!

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School supported the Arthritis Foundation by participating in the Jingle Bell Run Saturday, December 7, 2013 on the campus of Huntingdon College. The Montgomery Catholic Racing Knights, 26 member team, donated over $1,125 to the Arthritis Foundation. Led by Team Captain and MCPS parent volunteer Jennifer Passineau, the Racing Knights team was made up of students, faculty, staff, and family members. Montgomery Catholic's 2013 Jingle Bell Run team members were Liz Gregorius, Patrick Gregorius, Devin Kelly, Grace Leslie, Lucy Leslie, Sam Leslie, Becky Littrell, Sarah Beth Littrell, Donna, David and Daniel Labello, Angel Padilla, Michael Passineau, Alice Smith, Chloe Smith, Michael Smith, Nate Smith, Katelyn Stark, Sharon Stark, Annabel Starrett, John Terino, Emily Theurer, James Walker, Jason Walker and William Walker.  The team's top fundraiser was Coach John Terino. A soggy morning but a fun event for a wonderful cause, the Racing Knights had a great time walking, running and laughing together!

Montgomery Catholic's Middle School Help Serve those in Need this Christmas

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School's Middle School SGA members Isabella Padilla, Daniel Reeves, Maddie Jarman, India Richardson, Marie Rose Johnson and Lita Blackburn wrap gifts the SGA purchased for the three Catholic Social Services Angel Tree children the Middle School chose to sponsor from Montgomery's St. Peter Parish this year. SGA Sponsor and Teacher Ms. Michelle Vinson and counselor Mrs. Sarah Rech led the service project by taking ten SGA members shopping at Target on December 3 for their Angle Tree children.

Montgomery Catholic Senior, Kirstin Wood Signs to Play Softball at Martin Methodist College

Kirstin Wood signs to play softball for Martin Methodist College pictured with her parents, Patrick and Julie Wood,  November 26.

On Tuesday, November 26, 2013 the Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School athletic department held a signing ceremony for senior, Kirstin Wood at 2:45 p.m. in the Montgomery Catholic High School campus library. With her parents, Patrick and Julie Wood looking on, Kirstin signed her letter of intent to play softball with the Martin Methodist College RedHawks in Tennessee. The event began with prayer by principal, Chad Barwick, followed by opening remarks and congratulations from school president, Anne Ceasar. Montgomery Catholic's Varsity softball coach, Britt Taylor, spoke about the "hard work and determination" that brought Kirsten to this level, and he spoke fondly of the "lifetime" that he has spent coaching her, starting in elementary school. 

Wood, a five year MCPS Varsity softball player, has received the Leadership Award in softball for the last three years; she was a Jimmy Hitchcock Nominee as a freshman, a Montgomery Metro Softball Team Honorable Mention as a sophomore and an All State Softball Team Honorable Mention as a junior. She is also an accomplished four year Varsity basketball and volleyball player for the Knights. 

An exciting day for Kirsten, she had the support of family, friends, teammates and former coaches as she signed to continue her softball career for the next four years. Five of her former softball coaches were present to congratulate her alongside MCPS Coach Taylor; they were Bill Barranco, Marty Britt, Mike Hale, Tori Hollis and Mike O'Connor. Martin Methodist Head Softball Coach, Brandie Paul made the trip from Pulaski, Tennessee to be with her newest player. Kirsten started her speech by thanking Coach Paul. She said "I would like to thank Coach Paul for giving me this amazing opportunity to play for Martin Methodist College. This has been a dream of mine since I was a little girl, and I could not miss such an amazing opportunity like this." She also thanked her school, her former coaches and her parents for giving her the support to reach her goals.

 Kirsten shared a favorite quote with her guests, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step". Montgomery Catholic is excited for Kirsten to take this first step in continuing her athletic career in college, and looks forward to her many accomplishments yet to come.

Montgomery Catholic Fourth Graders Visit the Past While Studying Alabama History

Montgomery Catholic fourth grade students visited Ft. Toulouse in Wetumpka last week for Frontier Days.  The students were able to experience what life may have been like in Alabama in the 1700's and 1800's, enhancing their study of Alabama History this year. Pictured. experiencing the past for the day is the Montgomery Catholic St. Bede campus regiment from left to right Ailish Gilbert, Carys Kirk, Hart Yost, Ethan Macchia, Mason McCollister, Christianna Carr, Samantha Day.

Montgomery Catholic Student Serves Those in Need

Photo by Allison Boyd

Myles Jordan, a fifth grade student at Montgomery Catholic' St. Bede Campus, participated in the schoolwide food drive benefiting the St. Vincent de Paul Society, November 4 - 15. Myles collected cans from his neighborhood, then used his allowance money, and even gave up a Christmas present for money to buy more at the grocery store. Adding to the 1,300 cans collected by the campus over two weeks, Myles alone donated 125 cans of food to help those in need this Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Montgomery Catholic is proud of Myles, his generosity, and his serving heart. 

Myles is the son of Michael and Dottie ('90) Jordan of Montgomery.

Montgomery Catholic's Second Grade Students Receive Big Prizes for Supporting their School!

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Holy Spirit Campus recently completed their fall Mixed Bag Designs fundraiser which brought in over $4,000 for the school.  The Holy Spirit Parent Teacher Council (PTC) rewarded the students’ efforts by providing the top seller and a wild-card winner with a new Kindle Fire HD!  For every $50 of products sold, students’ names were entered into the wild-card drawing.  Ryan Parker was the highest seller and his classmate Mason Hooks was the lucky wild-card winner.  Both Ryan and Mason are in the second grade at Montgomery Catholic’s Holy Spirit Campus.  11-12-13 was a lucky day for Mrs. Burden’s second grade class.  Not only were both Kindle Fire HD winners second graders, but Mrs. Burden’s class also sold the most Mixed Bag Designs and won a class party sponsored by the Holy Spirit PTC! 

Pictured are Mason Hooks and Ryan Parker, winners of new Kindle Fire HDs at Montgomery Catholic’s Holy Spirit Campus.

MCPS's Holy Spirit Campus held a Special White Table Ceremony on Veteran's Day!

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Holy Spirit Campus held a special White Table Ceremony in honor of Veterans Day on November 11.  Mrs. Michelle Cool, a military spouse and third grade teacher, presented the White Table and revealed the symbols of each item at the table to the school gathered for prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance.

The White Table is a symbol to recognize the fact that military service-members are missing, whether POW or MIA.  The table is set for one, symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner alone against their oppressors.  The cloth is white to symbolize the purity of their intentions to respond to their country’s call to arms.  There is a single red rose to remind us of the families and loved ones of our comrades-in-arms who keep the faith awaiting for their return.  The red ribbon tied to the vase is reminiscent of the red ribbon worn upon the lapel and breasts of thousands who bear witness to their unyielding determination to demand a proper accounting of our missing.  A candle is lit to symbolize the upward reach of their unconquerable spirit. A slice of lemon is on the bread plate to remind us of their bitter fate and the salt upon the plate is symbolic of the families’ tears as they wait.  The glass is inverted and the chair is empty.  They cannot join us today, they are not here.  Remember.  Until the day they come home, remember.

Several members of the United States Air Force joined Montgomery Catholic for the ceremony including Lt. Col. Bill Lynch, Maj. Jade Spurgeon, M.D., Maj. Michael Boe, Col. David Cool, Lt. Col. Andrew D’Ippolito, Lt. Col. Steve Sugiyama, and Lt. Col. Keith Logeman.  The faculty, staff, and students thanked our special guests for their sacrifice and service to our great nation and for attending the White Table Ceremony.

Pictured:  Montgomery Catholic’s Holy Spirit Campus held a White Table Ceremony in honor of Veterans Day.  Attending were Mrs. Michelle Cool, USAF spouse and third grade teacher, United States Air Force officers Lt. Col. Bill Lynch, Maj. Jade Spurgeon, M.D.,  Maj. Michael Boe, Col. David Cool, Lt. Col. Andrew D’Ippolito, Lt. Col. Steve Sugiyama, and Lt. Col. Keith Logeman.

Submitted by Mary Kelley

Montgomery Catholic's Cross Country Ends the Year at State

The Montgomery Catholic cross country teams traveled to Oakville to compete in the AHSAA State Championships determined to compete against the state’s best.  The team took 14 runners on both the boys and girls sides, and 13 out of 14 runners came out of the meet running their best time of the year, or for some the best time in their career.  The girls finished third overall in the state, the best finish for a Montgomery Catholic girls team.  They had a state performer in Katelyn Stark, who finished 11^th overall, and the team has had an All-State performer each year since 2006, with the exception of 2006.  The team finished third overall in the state, finishing behind the top two teams from their section.

Congratulations Racing Knights! 



Article submitted by Travis Jarome

Katelyn Stark finishes 11th overall at State.

Archbishop Rodi Visits Montgomery Catholic's St. Bede Campus

Most Reverend Thomas J. Rodi, Archbishop of Mobile made a special visit to Montgomery Catholic's St. Bede elementary campus on November 6. The school was honored to have the Archbishop celebrate Mass with them. He was welcomed by the campus student council officers and principal Miss Laurie Gulley before he was given a tour of the classrooms. Archbishop Rodi was joined for a visit with each class by Ms. Gwendolyn Byrd Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Mobile.  Montgomery Catholic is proud to be celebrating 140 years of educational excellence in Montgomery. The school looks forward to continuing the mission, teaching students to become persons of faith, virtue and wisdom.

Pictured above: Front row, MCPS students Ethan Binns, McKinley Boyd, Lucy Duke, Patrick Flores, Libby Duke. Back row, MCPS St. Bede campus principal Laurie Gulley, Ms. Gwendolyn Byrd, Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi and Father Patrick Arensberg of St. Bede Catholic Church. (Photo by Ruth Glenboski)

Montgomery Catholic Band Invited to Participate in Veteran's Day Ceremony

Eric Crenshaw, Logan Stevens and William Russell
hold flags during the ceremony.

Master Sgt. Charles Manikas, Retired, special projects officer of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 607 invited Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School's Marching band to perform at a special Veteran's Day ceremony at Greenwood Cemetery in Montgomery on Monday, November 11. Thirty-six MCPS band members performed the National Anthem and Taps in preparation for a United States of America flag disposal ceremony. An annual tradition for VVA Chapter 607, this year 200 tattered flags were properly disposed of because they were no longer fit to be displayed. The flags were folded and held close to the chest before being added to a fire. Montgomery Catholic students were honored to be part of this tradition this Veteran's Day, showing respect and honor for our flag and those who have defended it.

Pictured: Lt. Col. Hal Winston, Retired U.S. Army speaks to Montgomery Catholic middle school student Ricky Treloar, after Ricky finished playing Taps during the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 607 Flag Disposal Ceremony on Veteran's Day.

Montgomery Catholic Alumna, Lizzie Terino Featured In Notre Dame Video

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School alumna Lizzie Terino '11, is featured in the University of Notre Dame's video, Fighting for the Ethical Use of Technology that aired on national television during the Notre Dame vs. Navy game on Saturday, November 2, 2013.

The two minute video is part of the University's award winning series, "What Would You Fight For?",
now in its seventh season. The series showcases the work, scholarly achievements, and global impact of Notre Dame faculty, students, and alumni. The two-minute segments, each originally aired during a home football game broadcast on NBC, highlight the University’s proud moniker, the Fighting Irish, and tell the stories of the members of the Notre Dame family who fight to bring solutions to a world in need.

Lizzie is a junior and part of the Navy ROTC program at Notre Dame. She is the daughter of Sue and John Terino of Montgomery. John has helped coach the Montgomery Catholic track team since 2007, and Sue is celebrating twelve years as a teacher at Montgomery Catholic.

Montgomery Catholic is so proud of Lizzie and all of her accomplishments!

You can find a link to the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoOpsCQ_u9E.

Montgomery Catholic Celebrates Red Ribbon Week October 28 - November 1

Montgomery Catholic celebrated Red Ribbon Week in style with themed days at each campus to promote healthy choices and drug-free lifestyles, October 28 - November 1.  On Wednesday, Montgomery Catholic’s Holy Spirit Campus held  “Shade Out Drugs” day where the students were encouraged to wear sunglasses to school.  Pictured “Shading Out Drugs” are Montgomery Catholic President Anne Ceasar with Mason Hooks, 2nd grade, and Kinley Tadlock, 6th grade.

Marching Knights Chosen for Huntingdon Honor Band

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Marching Band members Eric Crenshaw, William Russell, and Logan Stevens were selected to participate in the Huntingdon Scarlet & Grey Marching Honor Band on Saturday, October 26. These students went through an application process and were selected from numerous applicants from around the state to be a part of this event. Along with the other selected high school musicians, these MCPS Band members had the rare opportunity to perform in a college venue on game day with the Huntingdon College Marching Scarlet & Grey. Congratulations Knights!

MCPS sophomores Logan Stevens & Eric Crenshaw at Huntingdon College
as part of the Huntingdon Scarlet Marching Honor Band.

Montgomery Catholic's Robo Knights Robotics Team Heads To War Eagle BEST Competition

Monica Poole, Derek Kelly, & Leo Petters, with Dr. Joe Profio, present their robot to the students at the MCPS Holy Spirit Elementary Campus. Montgomery Catholic's Robo Knights Robotics Team competed at Auburn University on Saturday, October 19 at the War Eagle BEST Competition! Go Robo Knights!

Marching Knights performed at the Southeastern States Marching Band Festival in Troy

MCPS Color Guard rates Superior at Troy; Ashley Sulzby
an MCPS junior with trophy. 

The Marching Knights performed at the Southeastern States Marching Band Festival on the campus of Troy University on October 19, 2013 along with bands from over 30 schools from Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi. The Band was rated an overall "Superior" by the judging panel, also receiving "Superior" ratings in the specific areas of Color Guard and Drum Major. The Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Marching Knights are led by Band Director, Alex Johnson; Assistant Band Director, Christina Banks; Color Guard Sponsors, Sarah Rech and D'Jara Britton; and Drum Major Kristina Vanella, an MCPS senior. Congratulations Marching Knights!

Montgomery Catholic Math Madness Team Takes on Hawaii

The Montgomery Catholic Math Team recently played the school’s first-ever match against a team in Hawaii. Twelve students, led by juniors Leo Petters and Ann Faulkner, competed to complete math challenge problems against a team from Mililani High School in Mililani, Hawaii. The match is part of the new AMC Math Madness League sponsored by the Mathematical Association of America.

The Math Madness League uses educational gaming software developed by in-ter-stel-lar.com to schedule weekly one-on-one competitions among 600 schools throughout the United States. Montgomery Catholic is one of only three schools in Alabama to be selected for the league’s inaugural season. The team has pitted their math skills against schools in Kansas, Pennsylvania, and-most recently-Hawaii. In coming weeks, they play schools from Oklahoma and California. Each team has 30 minutes to correctly solve ten brain-stomping problems.

Despite some tough losses (3.00 to 2.33 to Mililani, for example) the Montgomery Catholic team is excited about being part of the league. Leo Petters explains, “It’s great to compete with other schools across the nation without having to worry about the bus breaking down.” Teammate Guillermo Ravelo agrees, “I love the opportunity to show schools far away what Alabama schools can do.”

A list of participating schools and current rankings for the AMC Math Madness League may be found at in-ter-stel-lar.com/math_madness/about.

Submitted by Dr. Joe Profio

MCPS Juniors Derek Kelly,Ann Faulkner, and Leo Petters
all participated in the Math Madness League competition.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Crowns 2013 Homecoming Court

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School crowned their 2013 Homecoming Queen and King during the half-time ceremonies of the varsity football game as the Knights hosted Pike County High School, October 11, 2013. Miss Anna McCracken was crowned by the 2012 Homecoming Queen Miss Michaela Armstrong . Anna is the daughter of Stephannie and Chris McCracken of Montgomery. Mr. Kyle Berher was named Homecoming King and presented a scepter by 2012 Homecoming King Mr. Michael Tyner. Kyle is the son of  Ann and Steve Berher.

(Photo by The Studio at Eastchase)

The Montgomery Catholic Homecoming Court also included:
Senior attendants, Saraelizabeth Parker and Kirstin Wood. Saraelizabeth is the daughter of Kristi and Gary Parker. She was escorted by Ryan Norris, the son of Stacey and Larry Norris. Kirstin is the daughter of Julie and Patrick Wood.  She was escorted by Alex Castanza. Alex is the son of Diane and Mike Castanza.

The Junior Attendant was Ashley Karst. Ashley is the daughter of Dr. Michael and Ann Karst. Ashley was escorted by Tucker Wilkinson. Tucker is the son of Lesley and Brett Wilkinson. The Sophomore Attendant was Agnes Armstrong. Agnes is the daughter of  Joanie Armstrong and Brett Armstrong. Agnes was escorted by Wilson Miles, the son of Sandra and Dee Miles. The Freshman Attendant was Tori Barranco. Tori is the daughter of Lee Anne and Rob Barranco. Tori was escorted by Brian Anderson. Brian is the son of Linda and Charlie Anderson.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School welcomed all Alumni home with an Alumni party at the Homecoming game from kick-off to half-time. Alumni were able to enjoy re-connecting with former classmates and tailgating with Jim-N-Nicks Bar-b-Que, including the class of 2003 celebrating their 10th reunion, the class of 1988 celebrating their 25th reunion and the class of 1983 celebrating their 30th reunion.

Montgomery Catholic students celebrated Homecoming Week at all campuses with a host of daily activities including bringing back an old campus tradition, the Homecoming Bonfire held on Thursday evening. Friday the Middle and High School ended school with a pep rally and little red wagon parade. The week ended with the High School campus Homecoming Dance on Saturday, October 12 held at the St. Bede Family Life Center.

MCPS celebrated Homecoming week with our Knights at our Homecoming Bonfire! All K4-12 Families and Alumni were invited to come out as an old Montgomery Catholic tradition came back to campus after 10 years.

MCPS 3rd Grade Class receives PetSmart Grant

In recent news at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School's Holy Spirit Campus: Mrs. Cool and her 3rd grade class received an $80.00 grant from PetSmart.  The grant is part of the Pets in the Classroom Program and enables teachers to cover the setup fees for various types of small pets.  Mrs. Cool’s class chose to purchase a 10-gallon freshwater tank complete with accessories and 7 guppies.  The purpose of the program is to help teach students to be responsible pet owners.  Mrs. Cool took it step further and tied the fish tank to her lesson plans to help teach her students about fresh water ecosystems.

Photo by Mrs. Michelle Cool: Holy Spirit Campus' third grade class with their new classroom fish tank from PETSMART. Back row from left to right: Owen Beesley, Chase Ford, Will Besterling, Jake Dean, Gabe Russo, Harrison Howell, Maggie Stewart. Middle row: Madison Green, Mason Sylvester, Mark Osten, Angelina Conceicao, Will Anderson, Peter Ha, Hyungsung Rho,  Cas Wilson, Max Barranco. Bottom row: Esa Gancayco, Lyndon Gotelaere, Kara Sugiyama, Laura Thomas Zhvania, Shannon Kille.

Montgomery Catholic honors Senior Volleyball Players October 15

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School honored four senior student-athletes prior to the last home Volleyball match against LAMP on Tuesday, October 15. The four seniors are Ashley Barranco, Sydney O'Connor, Abby Rohde and Kirstin Wood. Each athlete was escorted onto the court by their parents and were presented flowers by Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School President Anne Ceasar and Middle and High School Principal Chad Barwick. Ashley Barranco is the daughter of Don and Julie Barranco; Sydney O'Connor is the daughter of Mike and Kitie O'Connor; Abby Rohde is the daughter of Chuck and Brenda Rohde; and Kirstin Wood is the daughter of Patrick and Julie Wood.

Photo by: The Studio at Eastchase

The Knights host the Class 3A, Area 4 volleyball tournament at Father Pat Delahunty Memorial Gymnasium on Monday, October 21. 

MONTGOMERY CATHOLIC'S MIDDLE SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM WORKING HARD FOR WINS

Montgomery Catholic has a new Middle School Head Coach, Doug Givens, teaching the Knights how teamwork can change the game. The team has had a great year, with a record of 5-1, with two games left in the season. They are looking to capture the outright CCC Championship! Pictured Front: Landon Pritchett, Trey Wilkinson, Luke Whetstone, William Hooper, Parker Dennis and Coach Givens. Back: Coach Howell and Coach Griffin.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Key Club Volunteers at Walk-N-Roll for Spina Bifida

The MCPS Key Club loved participating in Walk-N-Roll through the Montgomery Zoo, benefiting the Spina Bifida Association of Alabama on Saturday, October 5. The Key Club Members volunteered at the event, not only to honor Montgomery Catholic's own Treloar family, but also for a chance to give back to our community. The MCPS students especially enjoyed volunteering to face paint, as well as, having the opportunity to interact with so many fun children and people at the zoo while helping to raise money for kids with Spina Bifida. Sponsored by Montgomery Catholic teacher, Mrs. Jeanene Crenshaw, the 60 Montgomery Catholic Key Club members do thousands of hours of service each year in the community through organizations such as Christmas Clearinghouse, Catholic Social Services, Montgomery Area Council on Aging, and Montgomery Humane Shelter. This Fundraiser for Spina Bifida is always the Montgomery Catholic Key Club's first project of the year.  

Pictured from left to Right:  Ashley Barranco, Sydney O'Connor, Daniel LoBello, Maegan Cobb, Chase WIlliams, Tiffany Do, Reggie Jackson, Emily Walker, and Millie Capouano.

Montgomery Catholic Celebrates the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi

Friday, October fourth the Catholic Church celebrated the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. Holy Spirit Catholic Church had a Blessing of the Pets Friday afternoon. Pictured is Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School first grader, Sarah Caroline Katz, with a dog named Jackson after the blessing. Sarah Caroline is the daughter of Denise and Jay Katz of Montgomery.

A Blessing of the Animals
Blessed are you, Lord God, maker of all living creatures.
On the fifth and sixth days of creation, you called forth fish in the sea, birds in the air and animals on the
land. You inspired St. Francis to call of them his brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless the animals and all living creatures. By the power of your love, enable them to live according to your plan. May we always praise you for all your beauty in creation. Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures! Amen.

  

Marching Knights Receive Excellent Rating at Huntingdon Invitational!

The Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Marching Knights competed at the Huntingdon Marching Invitational on the campus of Huntingdon College on Saturday, October 5. This was the third consecutive year the Marching Knights have participated in the Huntingdon Invitational. The Knights brought home four trophies from the competition. The Color Guard, Percussion, and Drum Major were each individually rated "Superior." The MCPS Band received an overall rating of "Excellent" from the panel of judges. The Marching Knights are led by Band Director, Alex Johnson; Assistant Band Director, Christina Banks; Color Guard Sponsors, Sarah Rech and D'Jara Britton; and Drum Major Kristina Vanella, an MCPS senior. Congratulations Marching Knights!

Montgomery Catholic Elementary Campuses Elect Student Council for 2013-2014

Students at Montgomery Catholics's  St. Bede and Holy Spirit Elementary campuses recently elected their student council representatives for the 2013-2014 school year. This year the student council at MCPS's St. Bede campus will be led by Libby Duke as President,  Patrick Floresas Vice-President, McKinley Boyd as Secretary,  Lucy Duke as the Chaplain, and  Ethan Binns as Treasurer; and at the Holy Spirit Campus by Anna Sadie as President,  Meaghan Pineda as Vice-President, Clare Wilson as Secretary, and  Sarah Rose Burden as the Chaplain, and Joey Tarlavsky as Treasurer. 

Pictured above is the St. Bede Campus Student Council for 2013-2014. Row1 :  Ailish Gilbert, Ansley Erhardt, Samantha Day, Mason McCollister, Will Driver, James Bender, Will Noell, Cecelia Crawford. Row 2: Amari Pitters, Grayson Howell, Veronica Masters, Alyssa Decker, Cacey Williams, Kade Hampton, Devan Deramus, Maren Manning. Row 3:  Patrick Flores, Libby Duke, Katie Rose Perkins, Lucy Duke, Mary Ellen Vazquez, Ethan Binns, Michael Hodges, McKinley Boyd, Kyla Stinson. Not Pictured: Riley Taylor.

Pictured above is the Holy Spirit Campus Student Council for 2013-2014.

Row1: Emily Klinger, Jordan Stokes, Jack Allen. Row2: Joey Tarlavsky, Katherine O'Connor. Row3: Anna Sadie, Meaghan Pineda, Sarah Rose Burden. Row4: Katie Sugiyama, Clare Wilson, Emma Garrison. Not pictured: Michael Russo, Kolbe Russo

The Knights Swept Lee Scott on October 1!

Easton Wilcoxson scores on a two point conversion at Lee Scott on Tuesday Oct 1.

The Knights swept Lee Scott at Lee Scott on Tuesday, October 1.  The Montgomery Catholic Termites beat the undefeated Warriors 20-16.  Chase Ford scored three touchdowns in the win.  Ethan Binns converted on a 2-point conversion.  Shawn Sponsler sealed the win with a tackle on 4th and 3 with under 30 seconds to go in the game.

The Pee Wee game had the Knights winning 20-6.  In the win, Nathan Downes and Christian “Cat” Ivey scored touchdowns.  Easton Wilcoxson scored on a two point conversion.  Also in the game, 12 different Knight players ran the ball.  Many for their first time in their career.

With the win, the Montgomery Catholic Termite team improves 5-1 on the season.  The Pee Wee team breaks above .500 with a 4-3 record.

Catholic’s next game is Tuesday October 8th at St. James.  Termites Kick-off at 5 PM followed by the Pee Wee’s at 6 PM.  GO KNIGHTS!

MCPS Brings Home First Place From Auburn University's AMP'ed Competition for the Second Straight Year!

Pictured from left to right: Henry Petters, Sam Caudill, Lauren Beverly, Hyunjoo Rho, Luke Craig, Ricky Treloar, Julie Flowers, Marcelo Villena, Lita Blackburn, Vicky Petters

The Montgomery Catholic Middle School participated in the Auburn Mathematical Puzzle Challenge (AMP'ed) this past Saturday, September 28th, against 13 other teams.  The MCPS team brought home first place for the second year in a row, edging out St. James in a tie breaker.  The seventh and eighth grade students who participated were Lauren Beverly, Lita Blackburn, Sam Caudill, Luke Craig, Henry Petters, Hyunjoo Rho, Ricky Treloar and Marcelo Villena.  The students were challenged to figure out several mathematical puzzles to win puzzle pieces that were put together to answer a 'who dunnit' type of problem.  MCPS Middle School Math Team Teacher sponsors Julie Flowers and Vicki Petters said, "The students had a great time working together on the big puzzles, as well as answering quick mental math problems to put together sets." All of the team members had a fun day together on the Auburn University Campus, using their math skills and coming home victorious. The Montgomery Catholic High School Robotics team sponsored the Middle School Math Team for this event by paying the entrance fee. 

Montgomery Catholic's O'Connor Signs with The University of Mobile

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory held a signing ceremony for senior softball pitcher, Sydney O'Connor on Thursday, September 26 at 2:45 in the Dolly Barranco Center at Montgomery Catholic's Middle & High School campus. O'Connor signed her letter of intent to play softball with the University of Mobile for the next four years. Her parents, MCPS Varsity Softball Coach Britt Taylor, former softball coaches; Bill Barranco and Marty Britt, along with fellow MCPS students and school administration were all in attendance for the ceremony.

O'Connor, a four year MCPS Varsity player, was instrumental in getting the Knights to the state tournament this season on the mound, and will look to take that success to Mobile, who finished second at the 2008 NAIA National Tournament and had appearances in 2011 and 2012. Sydney thanked her family and all of her past coaches for their support, and God for surrounding her with amazing people during her speech.

Sydney is the daughter of Katie and Mike O'Connor of Montgomery, Ala. Montgomery Catholic is proud to have Sydney as part of the MCPS family, and we look forward to seeing her accomplishments at the University of Mobile.

Montgomery Catholic Middle School Knights Win First Three Games

Montgomery Catholic vs Trinity Wildcats

Under first year Catholic Middle School Head Football Coach Doug Givens, the Knights proved they were ready, and fully prepared to start the 2013 season beating the Trinity Wildcats 6-0.  Even though the game was shortened due to lightening, the Knights proved they were in complete control in the second half when they marched down the length of the field to the 4 yard line primed for their second touchdown when the referees suspended the game.  After a 30 minute delay and with lightening covering the area, the officials decided to call the game giving the Knights the victory.

On Trinity’s first possession, the Wildcats picked up 3 first downs, but the hard nosed defense led by Defensive Coordinator Don Howell rose to the occasion.  On second down and 6 to go, the Wildcats attempted to run left, but Luke Craig snuffed it out forcing a fumble that was recovered by William Hooper at the Trinity 40.

On the Knights opening drive, Catholic Running Back, Parker Dennis picked up several tough yards, and Thomas Lynch caught an 8 yard pass from Quarterback, Landon Pritchett, but a holding penalty negated the drive. 

On Trinity’s second possession, William Hooper pressured the Wildcat quarterback forcing an errant pass that was intercepted by Trey Wilkinson at 50 yard line.

With the help of an outstanding line retooled by Coach David Griffin, the Knights grinded out an impressive drive that helped set the tone for the evening.  Running Backs Parker Dennis and Kamryn Jackson picked up 12 yards apiece, Fullback, William Hooper and Landon Pritchett added 6 yards each, but it was Parker Dennis who busted 5 yards up the middle behind Garrett McGinn, Stevie Price and Thomas McGlaughlin for Catholic’s first touchdown of the season.   The 2 point conversion pass play from Landon Pritchett to Thomas Lynch fell incomplete.

On Trinity’s next possession, the Knights defense put pressure on the Wildcat Quarterback forcing an interception by Parker Dennis.   With two minutes to go in the half, the Knights mounted another consistent drive down to the Wildcats 20 yard line, but on fourth down the pass from Landon Pritchett to Thomas Lynch fell incomplete on the goal line. 

We are grateful for the commitment to excellence by our Middle School football coaching staff, Head Coach Doug Givens, and Assistant Coaches Don Howell, Jonathan Wright, David Griffin and Bill Pendleton

Montgomery Catholic Knights vs Montgomery Academy Eagles

The Montgomery Catholic Knights won their second game of the 2013 season defeating Montgomery Academy handily 34-13.

Montgomery Catholic got off to a fast start when Parker Dennis and William Hooper pressured the Eagles quarterback causing his errant pass to be picked off by Hunter Ferrell who sprinted sixty yards for the first score.  Trey Wilkinson took a hand off running off tackle for the 2 point conversion making the score 8-0 early in the first quarter.

With the exceptional play by Garrett McGinn, Stevie Price, Luke Craig, Tate Holifield and Thomas McGlaughlin, Thomas Lynch, and Hunter Ferrell on the offensive line, the Knights managed to move the ball consistently all night.  With fourth down and 3, Parker Dennis took a hand off from Landon Pritchett before breaking a tackle and racing sixty five yards down the left sideline for the Knights second touchdown of the evening.  Trey Wilkinson ran off tackle for the two point conversion giving Montgomery Catholic a 16-0 lead.

Late in the third quarter, Montgomery Academy drove down to the Knights 5 yard line, but a ten yard Quarterback sack by Parker Dennis, a 9 yard QB sack by William Hooper and Donovahn Wyatt’s pressure on fourth down, the Eagles hopes of a score ended.  With fifty seconds remaining in the period, Kamryn Jackson took a hand off from Quarterback, Landon Pritchett and sprinted seventy six yards around left end for the fourth Catholic touchdown. 

With six minutes to go in the fourth quarter, Braxton Rogers intercepted a Montgomery Academy pass and ran sixty yards for the last Montgomery Catholic touchdown of the evening giving the Knights a 37-6 lead. 

Montgomery Catholic Knights vs Alabama Christian Eagles

The Montgomery Catholic Knights Middle School won their third game in a row crushing Alabama Christian Academy 41-6.  The Knights set the tone early in the game on the first play from scrimmage when William Hooper broke through the line forcing an ACA fumble.  Two plays later, Quarterback Landon Pritchett connected with Thomas Lynch on a thirty five yard pass play to put the Knights up 7-0.

After the Knights forced ACA to punt on their second possession, Catholic Running Back, Parker Dennis took a hand off, picked up several key blocks and ran seventy yards down the sideline for another touchdown. Rocky Philippou connected on his second extra point making the score 14-0 with 6 minutes to go in the first period.

On the next series ACA mounted a serious drive, but the tenacious defense by Luke Craig, Stevie Price, Donovahn Wyatt, Thomas Lynch, Parker Dennis, William Hooper, Trey Wilkinson, Braxton Rogers, Daniel Reeves, Hunter Ferrall and Kamryn Jackson stopped ACA on fourth down on the Catholic 1 yard line. 

With time running out in the first quarter, Parker Dennis picked up several key blocks and sprinted eighty two yards around right end for another Knight touchdown. With the help of special teams Coach Jonathan Wright, Rocky Philipou made his third extra point giving the Catholic Knights a 21-0 lead . 

ACA managed a couple first downs, but the Knights tightened up and forced an ACA punt.  One play later, William Hooper took a hand off from Landon Pritchett breaking one tackle in the back field and sprinted eighty two yards for another Catholic touchdown giving the Knights a 28-0 lead.  With 2 minutes before halftime, the stingy Catholic Knights defense forced a fumble on their own 5 yard line.  On the ensuing play Kamryn Jackson took a hand off from Landon Pritchett and sped around right end for a ninety two yard touchdown.

Midway through the fourth quarter Trey Wilkinson took a hand off and sprinted sixty two yards for the last Catholic touchdown and a final score of 41-6.

Submitted by  Conwell Hooper