To me, Lent is a time of personal reflection, including both my spiritual life and faith journey. Much like Advent, Lent is primarily for preparing; however, during this season we are focused more on the Passion and Resurrection of Christ. It is a tradition during Lent to not only give up meat on Fridays, but give something up to symbolize the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, but I like to take a different route; instead, make it more of a goal to do more good deeds and service. Over the years, this has shaped me into a more giving person because it is now a habit or instinct to go out of my way for others.

During the Lenten season, the Passion of Christ often inspires me. The Passion of Christ is the story of Christ’s conviction, scourging, journey to the mountain, and hanging on the cross. This story reminds me of all Jesus did for us, and how he sacrificed the gift of life to open the gates of heaven for us. It ignited a spark in me to only spread goodness into the world and to want to help people all I can. The way I see it is, if Jesus can give up his life, then I can give up some of my time to make someone else’s life a little bit easier.

By Phoenix Online Reporter Isy Odiaka ’19

On Tuesday, February 26, 2019, the French club joined Mr. Mark Ryan in the Emmanuel kitchen to make French macarons. Mr. Ryan guided the French club through the painstaking step by step process of how to make macarons, a famously difficult-to-make dessert.

“They were delicious and easier to make than I expected,” said senior Andrea Smith.

Each member of the French club was able to learn certain techniques that were incorporated in creating this French dessert.

During this Lenten season, I am going to focus on fixing a personality flaw that plagues all of us. Working in tandem with prayer and commitment, I can serve the Lord.  This personality flaw is worry.  Jesus during the Agony in the Garden was praying and sweating blood while speaking to His and Our Father. Jesus was worrying. He knew what lay ahead and turned to God for guidance. My worries are trivial, and I feel like I am sinning when I worry.
In life, there will always be something in front of you that you may tend to worry about.  I will remember Jesus and work on not allowing the temptations to overwhelm me. I will spend this Lenten season in His presence and fill my mind with the gift of His peace.

Mary at the Cross has been a powerful Lenten image for centuries. Her pure devotion to her Son up until the last moments of His life is something that can inspire everyone. This Lent, I want my everyday life to mirror Mary’s devotion to Jesus at the Cross. I can do this by putting full effort into everything I do- from school, to sports, to relationships. I want to wholly support my family and friends with the same love that Mary did. By also working hard in school and sports, I can give my life more meaning during this Lent.

On Tuesday, March 5, the winter varsity athletics programs gathered to honor the athletes of the winter season. Awards were given for most committed, most improved, and most valuable athletes on each team.

The Most Improved Player Award is awarded to the athlete who displayed the greatest amount of improvement and growth in their skills which contributed to the success of their team.

The Bernie Ward Commitment Award is named after our beloved former faculty member, coach and colleague Bernie Ward is for the athlete who has displayed the most passion and commitment towards bettering themselves and their teammates during the season.

The Most Valuable Player Award is awarded to the athlete whose contribution to the team contributed most towards that team’s success during the season.

Boys Varsity Basketball

Joseph Braskey
Most Improved
As the top defender on this year’s Varsity basketball team, Joe was given the job of guarding the top offensive player against every opponent this season. His leadership and emotional support to his teammates was directly affiliated with this year’s team success. Over the course of two years on the Varsity basketball team, Joe drastically improved his ball handling, shooting, and playmaking abilities. Offensively, Joe averaged 5 points per game, 6 rebounds per game, and handed out 3 assists per game.

Daniel Wilson
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
As last year’s team MVP, Dan continued his dedication and commitment to this year’s Varsity basketball team by being the leader on and off the court. Dan was an extension of the coaching staff on the court for the past three years. As the team’s leader in defensive charges taken, rebounding, and diving for loose balls, Dan was a great example of what a Coach looks for when he puts a player on the court. Dan’s commitment was not only on the court but was shown in the many activities he is involved with at Kellenberg Memorial HS. He averaged 10 points per game and grabbed 10 rebounds per game this season.

Sean Boll
Most Valuable Player
While directing the Boys’ Varsity basketball team at the Point Guard position over the last two years, Sean played an instrumental part of this year’s team success. Sean was put in charge of directing the offense, breaking the press, and leading the team on the fast break. As a player who logged the most minutes on the court during the season, He showed composure and determination while playing the most important position on the court. His leadership and all-around skills were needed against every opponent this year. Sean averaged 7 points per game and handed out 6 assists per game over the course of the season.

Girls Varsity Basketball

Colleen Bowles
Most Improved
As a role player off the bench her junior year, the coaching staff had high expectations for senior Colleen Bowles coming into the season. The expectations were surpassed as Colleen became an integral part of the team once moved into the starting lineup. While Colleen improved in every offensive and defensive statistic this year, leading the team in three-point percentage and steals. More importantly, Colleen was a friend to all and her presence on the team will be sorely missed next season. This year’s Most Improved Player is senior Colleen Bowles.

Colleen Moulder
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
While Kellenberg’s school motto is “One Heart, One Mind”, Colleen Moulder became the true “heart and soul” of the Girls Varsity Basketball team this season. Although she will go onto college to play volleyball next year, Colleen made the most of her final season playing basketball, committing herself to not only improving her own personal game but also her teammates. A true leader by words and actions, Colleen embodied the team motto of “Bleed Blue and Gold”. This year’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award is senior, Colleen Moulder.

Gabby Faya
Most Valuable Player
Whoever wears number 15 next season will have big shoes to fill since Gabby Faya has left her mark on the Kellenberg Girls Basketball program. As a three-year Varsity starter, Gabby improved her skill set each year and this year became the focal point of the team’s offense. The drive, termination, and confidence were just a few of the characteristics that her teammates looked to and learned from which make Gabby such a valuable part to the team’s success. By season’s end, Gabby led the team in scoring and in the process has been recognized as an All-League Player. The program wishes Gabby the best of luck as she continues her basketball career next year. This year’s Most Valuable Player Award goes to senior captain, Gabby Faya.

Boys Varsity Bowling

Tyler Kollman
Most Improved
After getting limited playing time as a starter last year, Tyler was put into the starting rotation at the start of the season with the hopes that he would develop some chemistry with the current starters and develop his skills over time. The result was more than anyone could have hoped for. Tyler immediately thrived as a starter, becoming a very consistent bowler throughout the season. His consistent play enabled his teammates to focus on their own game and not try to cover anyone else’s miscues. Tyler’s lightheartedness and bright personality will be missed next year.

Nicholas Repoli
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Nick has been a reliable starter for two years now and no one can question his commitment and dedication to the team. Nick attended every practice and game this year and bowled every frame like his life depended on it. Whenever the team needed a boost this year, Nick would make a huge strike or spare without any pomp or circumstance. In my opinion, Nick’s commitment can be summed up perfectly by the last throw of his high school bowling career when he bowled a strike while falling over, carefully avoiding a foot foul, even though the match was out of reach.

Joseph Tallini
Most Valuable Player
This year, as one of our captains, Joe was a quiet but strong leader. Joe was always the type of bowler that let his play do the talking for him. He was also not shy about helping out his teammates when necessary. Joe’s 182 average led the team this year. It was also good enough for him to qualify for the league’s individual championships as well as qualifying for the state tournament. As the only four year bowler on the team, Joe will be greatly missed next year.

Girls Varsity Bowling

Brooke Cassatto
Most Improved
Brooke Cassatto has worked hard each day at the alley perfecting her skills. At the beginning of the season, she had the basic skills of bowling down. With a little encouragement and lots of practice, Brooke soon perfected her footwork and spins to her bowling ball. Brooke would always ask questions and watch some of her other teammates and she soon learned what she needed to do to become a better bowler. She bowled some of her best bowling in our championship game with a high game of 169 which helped the B team win some of the points needed. She ended the season with a 119 average. Congratulations on your first season as a Firebird Bowler!

Allison Sliwinski
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Allison Sliwinski was one of the captains of the team. Allison showed up each day to practice or a match with a smile on her face. She worked each day to continue to get better and better. She was one of the players on the team that would help everyone understand the oil pattern on the lane or what to do to make a spare and she would do all of this with a smile on her face. She won a high game award of 222 and ended the season with a 163 average. Allison has been a part of this team since she was a freshman and she has been a pleasure to coach each year. She works hard and is a true team player. Allison, I am very proud to be your coach and I am looking forward to what next year brings! Congratulations on a great season.

Daisha Howard
Most Valuable Player
Daisha Howard is a true athlete. She never lets the pressure get to her. She has been a part of the bowling team since she was a freshman and has had one of the highest averages on the team each year. She is always willing to help other teammates get better and is always willing to help the team work together. She was also one of the team captains and she helped keep the team focused during the playoff week. Daisha bowled many great games this season but had season highs of 279 and 267. She finished the regular season with a 190 average and a playoff average of 200. Daisha I am very proud to be your coach and I am looking forward to what next year brings! Congratulations on all of your accomplishments this year.

Varsity Cheerleading

Maya Mangual
Most Improved
The most improved Varsity cheerleader is a girl that has worked extremely hard in improving herself in all aspects of cheerleading. She has shown great improvement in her stunting ability and has become one of the strongest bases on the team. She worked diligently to improve her jumps and her tumbling skills. She was always willing to take corrections and was a delight to coach. Her positive attitude and will power gave her the ability to improve greatly this year. The most improved Varsity cheerleader is Maya Mangual.

Meredith Kass
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
This season’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award winner is a young lady who has been a part of the Kellenberg Cheerleading program since she was in 7th grade. Meredith Kass has always been driven and enthusiastic about her improvement and growth as a flyer and an all-around cheerleader. From her early years in the program, the coaches were impressed with her talent and her positive attitude. Even after the many obstacles, Meredith has faced within the last two years, she has continued to remain fully committed and optimistic. And although it hasn’t been easy, Meredith worked tirelessly and proved to be an asset to the Varsity team. We couldn’t think of someone more deserving of the Bernie Ward Commitment Award and we commend Meredith for her continued perseverance.

Brooke Hunstein
Most Valuable
This season’s MVP is a cheerleader who has been truly valuable to our program since she was a freshman. Her strength and positive attitude make her a leader and role model for every girl on our team. She is an all-around cheerleader, with strong stunting skills, phenomenal tumbling, and beautiful jumps. The coaches turned to her to motivate and set an example for her teammates. Even with her elite skill set, she always pushed herself to be better and worked tirelessly at each practice. It has been a pleasure to watch this young lady master the sport of cheerleading and she will truly be missed. This season’s most valuable cheerleader Brooke Hunstein.

Varsity Dance Team

Linda Cesark
Most Improved
This year’s Most Improved Player Award goes to a dancer who continually developed her technique and performance skills not only throughout the season but throughout her years in the dance program. She is a valuable asset and an incredible addition to the Varsity team. As the season progressed, she constantly perfected her moves and worked on more challenging skills to make herself a better dancer as a whole. She is always looking to improve and seeking the advice of coaches, captains, and other team members in order to do so. We have seen her become a developed and gifted dancer. With her hard work ethic and practice, she excels in anything she does. This year’s Most Improved Player Award goes to Junior Linda Cesark.

Amanda Pugliese
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
This year’s Most Committed Award goes to a dancer who is an integral and influential part of the team, not only on the Varsity level. She has been invested in making herself and our team better throughout the season. She always tries to find ways to better herself as a dancer during the offseason and continuously improves her skills during the season. She is never afraid to ask for help from her coaches and always goes above and beyond to develop her dance abilities. Her commitment to the team was most apparent not only on the dance floor but in practice sessions as well. She was always willing and ready to try new dances and always worked well with her teammates. When her coaches or teammates needed her, she was always there without hesitation. We are proud to have her as a member of the Varsity Dance Team. This year’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to Senior Amanda Pugliese.

Cassandra McMillian
Most Valuable Player
This dancer has been on the dance team since her freshman year and we knew right away that she would be a remarkable young woman. From the start of her dance career, it was clear that she would be one of our strongest and most committed dancers. Throughout her years in the dance program, she has always looked for ways to improve and progress her dance abilities. There has never been a task that was too difficult for her to accomplish. Her dedication to not only her team but the entire dance program has been unmatched. She possesses excellent leadership skills and is always willing to assist her teammates with learning new choreography for each dance. As a captain, her commitment to her team has been unwavering. She is early to every practice and is always willing to go above and beyond, especially to help her team and coaches. Her personality, demeanor, and sense of humor have made it an absolute pleasure to have her on the team. This year’s Most Valuable Player Award goes to Senior and Captain, Cassandra McMillan.

Varsity Diving

Claire Galante
Most Improved
This season’s most improved diver goes to Claire Galante. Claire is a former gymnast who transitioned over to diving just two years ago and has performed amazingly! She has a drive in her that you can see as she’s diving and is very methodical in her approach which leads her to much success and improved scores from this year to last year. A running joke among the two of us is that she doesn’t even need the springboard to get her height because of her incredible strength to land difficult dives. She can see the best in her flaws and try even harder the next time she gets on the board. I am so thrilled to have her on the team for two more years and I thank her for her hard work as well as her ability to welcome new teammates and show them the ropes. Congratulations Claire!

Michaela Hall
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
The Commitment Award this year goes to Michaela Hall. Michaela is an athlete that any coach would love to have on their team! She listens to directions, attends every practice and meet, has a positive attitude, and is always looking to improve herself in her sport. I have the lovely privilege of coaching her to success and watch her become an amazing diver and improve tremendously from last year. She is always willing to lend a helping hand to any team member and cheers her teammates on when they need it the most. Thank you, Michaela, for setting such a fine example of what a Kellenberg student and athlete looks like and congratulations on your 5th place finish this year!

Olivia McNicholas
Most Valuable Player
This season’s most valuable diver goes to Captain Olivia McNicholas. Olivia is one of the most dedicated and hardworking athletes that I have ever coached. She practices 6-7 days a week most days two times a day and is always trying to improve her scores or the degree of difficulty of her dives. Her commitment to her sport will set her up for much-deserved success in College, but I am lucky to have her for one more year. Not only did she win the CHSAA league which is a first in Kellenberg history, but she made states for the second year in a row. She is always willing to help her teammates and was a great help to me in preparing the team for practice each week. Olivia, congratulations on your success which is due to your work ethic and drive. You are a force to be reckoned with!

Ice Hockey

Stephen Papp
Most Improved
Stephen was by far one of the hardest working players on the team this season. He plays a physical brand of hockey that both frustrates and neutralizes opponents. Stephen immediately showed promise and was inserted into the team’s top line early in the season. While there, he contributed immediately and continued to improve as the season progressed.

Adrian Harmaty
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Adrian’s commitment to his team is second to none and marked by his impeccable attendance record. Not only was he present for all team scheduled events, but his work ethic also proved to something that his teammates would emulate. Whether it was an on-ice or off-ice activity, Adrian was always in attendance and giving it his absolute best.

Johnathan Fusaro
Most Valuable Player
Johnathan led the team in goals and was second overall in total points; however, his contribution to Kellenberg Hockey extends way beyond the score sheet. He is a bona fide leader with a knack for motivating his teammates in his interactions with them as well as by example. Often times when the team was struggling during a game, Johnathan’s intensity and passion for winning inspired the team around him.

Varsity Swimming

Brandon Ramtahal
Most Improved
Brandon Ramtahal has been one of the more dedicated and hard-working athletes I have had the pleasure of working with this year. With the goal in mind from day 1 to make our “A” Championships, Brandon worked his tail off every practice, never missing one. His hard work paid off later in the season, as he dropped 3 seconds in a normal 30-second race, a feat that is very rarely seen in the swimming world. This incredible swim would qualify him for his first “A” Championships and help Kellenberg triumph over St. Peter’s High School, the prior 2nd place team in our division. Brandon has come a very long way from his freshman year and will continue to grow as a swimmer and man. Congratulations Brandon.

Bryon Phillip
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Bryon Phillip has been an excellent role model for the entire team, and I could see the other athletes taking on his mannerisms when they saw how well it worked for him. Bryon gave every race his best, and constantly asked how he could do better. Bryon had one thing on his mind from the first tryout to his last race: his team. Bryon was always more concerned with the score of the meet than his own races, how we fared as a team against others than if he would win his race or not. He even gave up swimming his favorite event at “A” Champs because he knew swimming a different event would benefit the team more. If anyone gave his whole heart to the team, it was Bryon. I hope to always have Bryon swimming for me.

Andrew Nazareno
Most Valuable Player
Andrew Nazareno has been the most valuable player in every meet, as well as every practice. He would give his all in every race, every lap, every stroke. He was the embodiment of what a most valuable player looks like. He was not only our leading point scorer for the season but also a perfect role model for how athletes should be, doing whatever he could to help the team, no matter if it was what he wanted to do or not. With the talent and work ethic Andrew displays, I know that he will be a success in not only swimming but in life as well.

Boys Varsity Track

Thomas Hopkins
Most Improved
Team Captain Thomas Hopkins does everything right. He shows great leadership on the track, and he is the ultimate team player willing to do whatever is necessary to make the team better. During the off-season, Tom worked tirelessly to make himself into a better runner. He has improved almost an entire 2 seconds in the 400 meters, which is a significant amount at his level in this event. The team was able to capitalize on this improvement and become All Catholic State and All NSCHSAA in the 4×400 meter relay and narrowly miss qualifying for the New York State Championship meet. This year’s Most Improved Runner goes to Thomas Hopkins.

Elias Baltas
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Although Team Captain Elias Baltas showed a great deal of personal improvement this season his commitment to the team is the reason for him receiving the Bernie Ward Commitment Award. The Shot Put team had the NSCHSAA Freshman Champion, NSCHSAA Sophomore Champion, overall this has been the best group of shot putters in recent memory at Kellenberg. Elias’ leadership as a team captain was a large part of this year’s team performance. Whether it was coming to the NSCHSAA Freshman & Sophomore to support his teammates or showing great leadership every day at practice. This year’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to Elias Baltas.

Erik Brown
Most Valuable Player
If you were to meet Erik Brown in the hallways of Kellenberg and have a conversation with him, you would assume he was a member of our perennial powerhouse Science Olympiad Team instead of one of the top track athletes in the entire country. He is soft-spoken, a deep thinker and unassuming. At the same time, he currently owns the 6th fastest 600-meter time in the entire country and has the top seed time entered in the New York State Meet in the 600-meter, but he always puts the team first. He is an All-Catholic State Runner, All NSCHSAA Runner both as an individual and as a member of multiple relays. This year’s Boy’s Most Valuable Runner goes to Erik Brown.

Girls Varsity Track

Olivia Colletta
Most Improved
The pleasant warm personality and affability of this young woman belie a steely competitiveness within her. That competitiveness saw her emerge from a good sprinter to the feared anchor leg sprinter on Kellenberg’s scintillating state qualified sprint relay. It is our honor to award the Most Improved Award to senior Olivia Colletta.

Sam Bendig
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
It is not an easy task to be a thrower at Kellenberg, let alone a successful one. It requires a special commitment of practicing in the field far off from the rest of teammates and friends and staying true to your goal. Thanks to the mentorship of her coaches, and her special commitment, Samantha Bendig scored critical points for her team in both the Sectional and Intersectional Championships. We are honored to bestow the Bernie Ward Commitment to senior Sam Bendig.

Maya Richardson
Most Valuable Player
This young lady in four years has never missed a practice or meet. She has been an All-League runner in seven seasons, including this one. She has been a NY State qualifier for the same amount of seasons. She is also so well-respected that this season she was named “Sportsmanship winner” for the whole CHSAA. She is a model sportswoman athlete. We are honored to bestow Maya Richardson with the MVP award.

Varsity Wrestling

Matt Moreno
Most Improved
Matt Moreno came into our program four years ago as a timid Freshman with no wrestling experience. Four years later Matt is an outstanding young man who now knows so much about wrestling that he is often coaching up the younger wrestlers in our program during practice and showing them how to correctly do different techniques. Two years ago Matt won just 13 matches, this season he won over 25 matches and placed in the top 4 at multiple tournaments always contributing to the team’s efforts. Although his finish to the season is not where he wanted it to be you cannot deny the leaps and bounds Matt made as a wrestler and more importantly as a man.

Keith Sherry
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Keith Sherry caught the wrestling bug as a freshman and never looked back, from then on he identified as a Wrestler. Always attending offseason workouts, tournaments, camps and becoming a student of the sport. Wrestling became a top priority and it showed as he placed in the NY CHSAA Tournament three times. Keith wrestled through injuries and always showed perseverance setting a great example for his teammates. Often times he would stay after practice and work with the coaches on things to improve. Keith had a drive and determination that others on the team could look to and use as motivation themselves.

Andrew Cascio
Most Valuable Player
Andrew Cascio placed at every tournament he competed in this season and took home a title and two runners up finishes. When the team went to Utica to compete in the Central Valley Duals Andrew was named Most Outstanding Wrestler for going a perfect 7 wins and 0 losses that weekend. Almost all of Andrews very few losses this season were to wrestlers who ended up competing at the New York State Championships. Andrew put everything he could into the pursuit of his CHSAA Championship but came up just a little short. This was not because of a lack of hard work as Andrew pushed himself whenever he was in the practice room or the weight room to be the best he possibly could.

This weekend the Model UN team competed at the Hofstra Model UN Conference. Congratulations to Edward Goodyear ’21 on winning Best Delegate for the Business and Finance Committee. We would also like to congratulate Sarah Goes ’20, Benjamin Truncale ’20, Charlie Mandraccia ’20 and Ethan Brown ’22 who all won an Honorable Mention in their committees. Great work everyone!

This past weekend junior bassoonist Sophia Markevich traveled to Liverpool, NY to perform with the 2019 New York State Band Directors Association Honor Band. Sophia is one of only 125 elite high school musicians from all of New York State selected for this ensemble. Congratulations on receiving this honor and for a job well done! Bravo!

Congratulations to senior Maureen Lewin and the 4×800 meter relay team of Margaret McLoughlin ’20, Maya Richardson ’19, Briana Lausev ’19 and Lewin for their podium finishes at Saturday’s New York State Track and Field Championship!

Lent is a season that focuses on devotion, renewal, and repentance. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Easter Sunday. This season is forty days long, in which Christians replicate Jesus’ sacrifice in the desert. Catholics choose to give up a favorite food, activity, or may choose to help those in need. Every person, 14 years or older, must abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and all Fridays during Lent. Every person between the ages of 18 and 59 must fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. This Lenten season I will be volunteering my time. Instead of giving up a favorite food of mine, I will assist in nursing homes and donation facilities. This Lenten season I hope to become closer to God.

This Lenten season, I am reminded of Mary at the Cross. Mary never once left her son’s side through all his suffering. She stayed with him until the very last moment, at the foot of the cross. Mary embodies true love and loyalty throughout her life. Many others simply stood aside and watched Jesus suffer, becoming bystanders. Mary did not let what others think stop her from standing up for what she knew was right, sticking by and defending her son. She was never ashamed of him. It is this deep love and loyalty that inspires me this Lent. In today’s society, especially as a teenager, it can be very easy to fall in step with everyone else and difficult to stand out. Due to peer pressure many people, including myself, feel that they have to conform, even if it means compromising on who you are or what you believe in. So this Lenten season I have been inspired to stand up for what I believe in and stand by those I love with utmost loyalty, no matter what others around me may think. Whether it be standing by a friend or loved one during a hard time or standing up for my faith, I will not be afraid to stand out in the crowd and stay true to who I am.

Article by Phoenix Editor Maya Tadross ’19:

On Friday afternoon, I asked my parents if we could attend 5 p.m. Mass on Saturday evening instead of our usual time of 10 a.m. on Sunday. I had left most of an English research paper, an entire scholarship essay and this newspaper article to the final weekend before their due dates. By going to Mass earlier in the weekend, I was hoping to have all of Sunday to finish my papers. Instead of relaxing and watching TV Friday night as I had wished to do, my procrastination led me to sit down to carefully plan – and stressfully anticipate – my work-filled weekend.

After a long yet mostly successful day of finishing my scholarship essay and making progress on my English paper, my dad shouted upstairs that it was time to leave for Mass. I quickly got ready and scrambled downstairs, where my dad handed me his car keys. Sighing, I accepted them, knowing I needed to practice. Going to mass was supposed to be the low-stress part of my day, yet I had to do one of the most anxiety-provoking tasks to get there: drive. Thankfully, my dad and I arrived in the parking lot of St. Anne’s Parish in Garden City unscathed.

We walked into the familiar building, and I struggled to keep up with my dad’s pace as we discovered empty seats in the seventh pew from the front. Finally sitting without any work to do, I found myself restless and unable to focus, thinking about all I had to do the next day until we were instructed to turn to page 311 in the songbook and stand.

At the altar stood an unfamiliar priest, Father Johnny Mendoca, whom I later learned was recently placed in residence at St. Anne’s. Fortunately, the presence of a new priest allowed me to pay attention to the celebration better than I usually did. At last my favorite part of the mass came: the readings and the homily. I was especially excited to hear a message by Fr. Johnny for the first time.

“We must allow the Grace of God into our lives,” Fr. Johnny enthusiastically began, raising his arms high above his head. Another generic homily, part of me immediately thought. However, another part of me heard the passion in his voice and wanted to give his homily a chance.

“Imagine if, after Mass, a stranger got into your car and told you where to go,” he continued, piquing my interest. “This is exactly what Jesus, the poor son of a carpenter, did to Simon Peter by getting into his boat and telling him to cast his nets into the deep.”

Reflecting further on the Gospel, Fr. Johnny drew an analogy between Simon Peter allowing Jesus into his boat, yielding an enormous catch of fish, and us letting God into our lives today. I had never heard such a comparison before; Fr. Johnny had my full attention.

“After the prophet Isaiah saw God on his high and lofty throne, he was afraid, for he was a sinner,” Fr. Johnny began explaining. “Simon Peter was afraid too once he realized who Jesus was, and he begged for forgiveness.”

Ultimately Fr. Johnny compared the two readings, making apparent that in both there was an experience of God, followed by the asking for forgiveness and finally a mission. Once Isaiah’s lips were cleansed by the angel, God asked him, “Whom shall I send?” To which Isiah responded, “Send me.” Similarly, Jesus told Simon Peter and the other apostles that they were to become “fishers of men.”

Fr. Johnny concluded that we are called to allow God’s grace into our lives the same way Isaiah and Simon Peter did. First and most importantly we must trust God, then we offer a confession of our sins and finally we follow the mission he gives us. This message was so simple yet so incredibly helpful, for it answered my big question of how to let God’s grace into my life, by trusting him, especially in the most uncertain, stressful situations.

The final half of the Mass, I felt more relaxed and able to participate in prayer as I tried to trust that God would help me finish my work the next day by His grace. After Holy Communion, I thanked Him for the gift of Fr. Johnny’s homily when I most needed it.

By Sean Ronan ’20

We all have goals that we wish to accomplish: getting perfect scores on exams, having the perfect job and a large income, a beautiful home, a family, and being able to travel all over the world. However, it is only through diligence and taking responsibility that you unlock the doors to success. Like the old saying goes, you can only “gain through pain.” You must be dedicated and willing to face the challenges that will come your way.

In elementary and middle school, I faced many challenges. Because I didn’t listen to my English teacher telling me to read at home, I had a difficult time going up reading levels: when my 5th grade classmates were on level Z, I was stuck on level N. I remember being disappointed in myself after hearing from my teacher that I hadn’t improved. To this day, I still struggle with reading comprehension. I also struggled in math class. Because I refused to spend my time after school practicing what I had learned in school, I was put into an additional math class and a study skills class to better my grades. I was also given an IEP that allowed me extra time and a lector for regular and standardized exams.

Throughout those years, the many teachers that I had, including my parents, sacrificed their time (and money) so that they could work with me one-on-one inside and outside of school. I credit my teachers and parents who instilled in me the importance of responsibility and hard work.

6th grade was the last time that I attended a study skills class, reading class or additional math class. Because I showed my teachers great academic improvement, they suggested that I was able to do without the extra classes.

Since then, I have been in the honor roll program for six consecutive years and have maintained at least a 92 average in all of my years of middle and high school, as opposed to the multiple failing grades that I accrued during my elementary years.

I spend an extensive amount of time every night — during weekdays and weekends — completing homework assignments and preparing and studying for exams. Because of my prevailing difficulties in learning, it takes me more time to complete assignments and to prepare for assessments when it would take others half the amount of time.

In Alexander Pope’s Essay on Man, Pope explains that “a little learning is a dangerous thing.” As I grew up, I began to recognize how critical it is to do things that will enrich the mind — especially because of my learning difficulties. Instead of playing games and watching TV shows and YouTube videos mindlessly, I spend my time writing for the school newspaper after school and I spend my free time reading articles and books on politics, or watching videos that answer the many curious questions that I have.

My sister, Emily, a sophomore in high school, has been facing difficulties in learning since she was born, and was placed in special education, reading, speech and study skills classes. Like me, she works tirelessly, for many hours during the week, to enhance her knowledge. Every day, I am a mentor to my sister. If she is having difficulty with her homework, I set aside time so that I can help her and I never walk away without first knowing that she’s got it. Her teachers have been by her side to help her for many hours after school and on the weekends.

But there comes a time when you will be left on your own to “figure it out yourself.” Using the suggestions that myself and her teachers have provided my sister, my sister knows that she must spend more time reviewing for exams by creating study guides and flashcards on her own. Sometimes she gives up and becomes tired of having to put so much effort into exams, but I am always there to lead her back on the right path.

When you know you have prepared as thoroughly as you can for exams but still see an “F” on your report card or a comment on a progress report that says “Needs Improvement”, it is easy to become distraught and give up. But, my mother only hopes that my sister and I do our best — that’s all that matters.

Having crossed big barriers in my academic life, I know that it is through hard work that you will be rewarded. These barriers made me diligent, responsible and reliable.

But I am also critical. It was in failing that I was fueled to learn the “right way” towards success in my academic life. We should use that same fuel to make changes in the world. I am critical of individuals that have the power to make a change, but settle on doing the bare minimum.

Students shouldn’t be left in the dark by teachers who might want to rush home. Teachers should be open to sacrifice their time for students. Similarly, politicians should look at the issues we face locally or nationally and be there to listen to the constituents they represent in order to make policy to effect change for our benefit – not just for the politician’s benefit. In a time of failure, a coach should look at what he himself can do in order to lift up his teammates.

Conversely, players should work with each other to better their play.  Do you work out when you need to? Train even more than you have to? And, we students shouldn’t blame the people we answer to –  the teachers and administrators and our parents – but instead look at what we can do for the betterment of ourselves and our school and our society. Work harder.  Do more. Don’t point fingers, unless you’re pointing at the mirror.

We have no one to blame but ourselves for the choices we make in life. We should remember the responsibilities we have as individuals to, as Mahatma Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

But… what do I know?

By James Mooney III ’20:

There is a first and last for everything. Every great achievement begins with the first step.  “Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try.” This quote from John F. Kennedy embodies the human spirit in the endeavors we take, whether great or small.  At Kellenberg, many members of the student body have made great strides, beginning with their first step as a freshman to their last moment as a senior. Anya Murphy, Editor in Chief  of The Phoenix, Kristen Mangiapanello, Communications Club producer, and Maureen Lewin, Track team Captain are three students who dared to take the first step.

Anya first got involved with the newspaper completely by accident – she had Mr. Flood for study hall sophomore year, and she asked him to read a paper she was writing. About a week later, he just came up to her and said, “You’re going to apply for an editorship.” A month later, Anya was in the office with Mr. Flood for the first time.

Anya actually discovered journalism through her years of writing for the Phoenix. She had always loved to read and write, and knew that it was a talent that she possessed, but never really tapped into it seriously until she started reporting.  Anya recounts, “The newspaper was never a “goal” per se for me, but it became something much more important than that – I can’t picture how my life would have gone had I not become an editor. It’s become a natural extension of my high school career and it has shaped my life more than anything else.”

Her first article was about the Marianist Bicentennial in January 2017.  Anya remembers writing it and researching the words for the focus on her article. Having skipped lunch that day to interview Bro. Roger Poletti, S.M,. Anya remembers Mr.  Flood assigned it to her that morning and wanted it to be ready for review the next day. The idea of getting it done and being on deadline got her adrenaline pumping immediately.   This process of investigation and research made her feel purposeful and confident.   Anya tells her story, “Being editor-in-chief feels almost the same as being an editor, just a little more in depth. It’s as if you were renting a house and eventually you bought the house and you were suddenly in charge of the maintenance and upkeep but it was still your same house. Since I was the only junior on the staff last year, it fell to me to assume the role this year, and I had big shoes to fill. Last year’s staff was an incredible team of people whom I am proud to call my closest friends. After winning first place in so many competitions last year, I’ll admit that I was apprehensive going into this year’s awards season.”

Many hours have been spent in the office.  But Anya has loved every minute of it and will be heartbroken when it is over. Mr. Flood and Anya always say, “This is why they pay us the big bucks”!   Our Phoenix Editor in Chief shared her parting thoughts, “Sometimes I think about having to write my Editor’s Farewell, and I honestly almost cry thinking about saying goodbye to my home and my newspaper family.

I think that Issue six and the sentinel are going to be incredibly bitter sweet. Knowing that the thing that I hold so close to my heart is going to end I’m certain will put a sad twist in my last days as the EIC, but I have supreme confidence in the people I am leaving the paper to and I know that I can always come home if I need to. It’s bold of anyone to assume I won’t be FaceTiming in every afternoon from three to five or researching ways to bottle and ship the smell of printed ink.”

Kristen Mangiapanello’s first steps toward Communications Club began when she was a tyro in the Latin School, “I found out about the communications club in 6th grade but didn’t join until 7th. One of my Marianist Mentors in 7th grade was a producer Dan Gavin, and another was a member of ETV, Nick Boffardi. Both of them encouraged me to pursue one of the clubs. Dan really convinced me to do Communications because he knew that I loved public speaking and presentations. So one Friday he brought me up to a meeting and he trained me. The following week I did my first ever announcements (PM). I remember I read the prayer and I was so nervous! I remember that as I was doing it I couldn’t get out the word “Hail” and I butchered it. I was so embarrassed and I thought I would never do announcements again. But I did. I did PM one more time and then I proceeded to doing AM. As a tiny, nervous 7th grader I sat behind the big desk and looked into the camera. And I did it. I did my first ever morning announcements, the first step on a long journey. I was physically shaking so much that everyone noticed. I was terrified. But I’m so glad I did it.”

Kristen has been a producer in Communications Club since the end of her Freshman year.  She is known as the “Mom” of the club and Mr. Beyrouty has bestowed the title of “Senior Executive Producer” on her.  Kristen is at all of the daily announcements and knows the names and strengths of the club members.  Her time in Communications Club has prepared her for the University of Vermont where she will be pursuing secondary education.

Kristin reflects on her upcoming last moments in Communication at Kellenberg. “I am going to be devastated on the last day of announcements. Communications been such a huge part of my time at Kellenberg and I’ve really poured out a so much time, energy, and love into this club.  It’s going to be sad to leave my fellow producers (especially the rest of the seniors) because we are so close and have such a good time up in the studio in the mornings together. I do know that I will be the final person to go on our last day and I might have something special that I’m going to say or do (I’m not sure yet). I do think that we all are going to be introduced “for the final time.” I’m going to miss it.”

The firsts and lasts are very strong for our athletes at Kellenberg.  Maureen Lewin recalls her first race as a freshman runner, “My first notable moment from my track career at Kellenberg was my first race. I ran the 1000 at St. Anthony’s. I didn’t know anybody in my race except my sister’s best friend. Just her being there really helped to calm my nerves!”

Maureen was lucky to be a part of the 4 x 800 relay team as a starting freshman.   Each leg runs 4 laps on indoor competitions and she was the lead-off leg.  Her sister Deirdre also ran on this relay team.  They won their first race at the Armory for the Stanner Games.  Maureen’s relay team also qualified for the states competition at Cornell.

Maureen’s reflects on track and her leadership role, “It feels great to have competed in such an amazing sport over all four of my years at Kellenberg. I feel as if over the years, my leadership role on the team has grown significantly.  Starting freshman year, I joined winter track and did soccer and not cross country. A lot of the older girls knew the freshman on track from cross country, but I didn’t know many of them, expect my sister and some of her friends. However, from the first day, all of the upperclassmen were so welcoming and as the year progressed, I constantly looked to all of them as great role models on and off the track. The great leadership I had shown to me my first few seasons of track has definitely helped me to lead the Underclassmen now. I always try my best to be someone who the freshman can look up to and come to if they need advice or help with anything. Also, before races, I try to give everybody on the team and pep talk so they know how much work they have put in at practice and that all of it will be sure to pay off during the race.”

Maureen will be experiencing her final moments at Kellenberg, but continuing her track career at Boston College.  Her final reflections on her time at Kellenberg, “I am so thankful for this sport because without it I wouldn’t have met my best friends or learned so many important life lessons. I am so thankful for my family, friends, and Mr. Brown for always supporting me throughout these four years. Some of the best moments I’ve had on the team include all the little things like the bus rides to and from meets and some of the overnight trips we’ve taken for meets.  The great leadership shown to me over the years has helped me to lead the Underclassmen. I always try to be my best in my pep talks and as a leader that my teammates can look up to.”

As these three seniors depart they leave lasting impacts on Kellenberg and their club or team forever.  Remember that it is never too late to try to create an impact.  At Kellenberg you can only share that last moment if you take the first step.

Lent is a solemn religious observance in the Christian liturgical calendar that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends approximately six weeks later, before Easter Sunday. Lent is a time of repentance, fasting and preparation for the coming of Easter. It is a time where we reflect on ourselves so we can prepare for Jesus. Many use this time as an opportunity to fast and do more good deeds. Every person 14 years or older must abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and all the Fridays of Lent. Some give up many of their favorite items to experience the same pain that Jesus went on his journey into the desert for 40 days. This lent I will be giving up ice cream, which is one of my favorite snacks to have. I will also be trying to volunteer at the nursing home near my house to help those that need to be helped. I’m taking this Lent as a chance to strengthen my relationship with God.

Article by Phoenix Editor Anya Murphy ’19

Anxious World Youth Day pilgrims in bright yellow polos lounged in the waiting area of JFK International Airport early on the morning of January 18, 2019. After a long flight, and, for some, a layover in Miami, they finally landed in Panama.

When both flights had landed later in the evening, the group’s first move was dinner and an early bedtime as they eagerly awaited the next day’s activity.

At 5:30 a.m. sharp, the pilgrims were dressed and ready for their first adventure of many – a boat trip down the Panama Canal.

Pilgrim Caitlin McDonough ’19 said, “It was so cool to see the Panama Canal. It was a chance to see the historical side of Panama; we learn about the canal in almost every history class, so seeing it in real life was pretty awesome.”

The next morning, the group boarded boats that took them on a tour of the Gamboa Rainforest. Once they arrived, they rode in gondolas and scaled a 70-meter tall observation tower, from the top of which they could see the Chagres River Valley and the canal. Later that afternoon, they took a boat ride on Lake Gatun and saw sloths, turtles, crocodiles, and butterflies.

Caroline Canny ’19 described the views as, “captivating.” She elaborated, “The wildlife in Panama was so different from anything I have ever seen before. Coming from freezing winter New York, The temperature chance was definitely welcome, and being able to see such cute animals like monkeys and sloths while wearing shorts in January was such a great experience.”

A day of rest followed these activities, as pilgrims spent time in the pool at their hotel, the Westin Playa Bonita. Students and moderators alike worked on their tans at the beach, and the day concluded with a foam party in the pool.

As World Youth Day drew closer, the pilgrims moved hotels to the Miramar Intercontinental, a more central and urban location in Panama City. They explored an artisanal market and bought hand-plaited bracelets as souvenirs for friends and family.

Jackie Quinn ’19 was wandering through the bazaar with fellow Kellenberg pilgrims Caitlin McDonough and Kyra Varley ’19 when they happened to meet two young men whom they soon discovered were Americans themselves. After a short conversation, it was revealed that the boys were from Michigan, and flew to Costa Rica before driving 26 hours to Panama City for World Youth Day.

Jackie reflected, “The lengths people went to be there blew my mind. It showed that the young people of our religion are dedicated and it made me proud to be a Catholic. People were sleeping outside and in huts just to be present when the Pope was there and to be with everyone else and I thought it was very inspiring.”

While at the bazaar and touring the city, the group met many other young people, with whom they traded small items representing their countries, like pins, bracelets, and flags.

The day before WYD, the group visited the Biodiversity Museum designed by famous architect Frank Gehry. They also saw a portrait of the Blessed Virgin composed of mosaic tiles by Antonio Gaudi, the designer of the world-renowned basilica Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.

Lauren Glupe ’19 shared, “Being able to see so much history through the art in the museums and churches really opened my eyes to the richness of our faith.”

On the morning of January 22, the group followed Larry Shammas, Chaminade ’19, and Sergio Arreaga ’19, who held the Marianist banners, to the inaugural Mass of World Youth Day 2019. A confluence of thousands of young people from all over the world officially opened the celebration. Hundreds of flags lined the pathway

Archbishop JD Ulloa of Panama celebrated the Mass that evening, hoping to inspire the young people gathered to continue to grow in their faith.

He implored the young people, “Keep making the adults nervous, keep detaching yourselves from the things that tie us down and won’t let us be true Christians.”

The next day, the group attended a Mass celebrated by Diocese of Rockville Centre’s Auxiliary Bishop, Robert Brennan at La Merced, the oldest church in Panama, parts of which date back to the 1680s. Bishop Brennan is now the newly appointed Bishop of Columbus, Ohio.

Pilgrim Catie Sullivan ’19 decided that the best part of being able to see so many historic and religious sites was, “meeting people from all different walks of life and coming together through faith. It was so moving connecting with people and even if we did not speak the same language, we both understood that we are all one through Christ”

The highlight of the trip for many was the group’s first sighting of the Pope, who drove past in the Popemobile as they waited on the street with thousands of others.

Daniela Rigazio ’19 reflected that seeing the Pope was, “the best moment of my life.” She recounted the climax of the hours she spent waiting for him to drive by, “We had been standing by the side of the road for hours, and finally we heard that he was coming up the street we were standing on. Everyone ran down the road along the barricade and were holding their phones up hoping to get Pope Francis on video. I’m not that tall and I couldn’t get a spot close enough to the railing to see, so I was just jumping up and down, hoping I would have the right timing. I saw the top of his head out the window of the car, and it was amazing.”

Before Pope Francis gave a closing Mass, some students chose to share their faith experience with their fellow pilgrims through reflections and testimonials.

Caitlin McDonough commented, “Through pictures, my family was able to feel the spiritual connection that I was feeling at World Youth Day and that’s really unique and an awesome feeling that what you are doing is affecting others.”

                 Sacrificing for Jesus

Fasting during Lent has its origins in the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert fasting and praying. From Ash Wednesday to Easter, many people fast from certain foods or from certain actions like selflessness, bitterness, or anger. But the true purpose of Lent is to get us to be ready for the death and resurrection of Christ, through prayer, repentance of sins, and self- denial. One way to get ready for the Resurrection is to pray the Stations of the Cross which are commonly prayed during Lent on Wednesday and Fridays, especially on Good Friday on which the events actually occurred. The Stations of the Cross are a series of fourteen pictures portraying the events in passion of Christ, from his condemnation by Pontius Pilate to his entombment. The series of stations is as follows: (1) Jesus is condemned to death, (2) He is made to bear his cross, (3) He falls the first time, (4) Jesus meets his mother, (5) Simon of Cyrene is made to bear the cross to assist Jesus, (6) Veronica wipes Jesus’s face, (7) Jesus falls the second time, (8) the women of Jerusalem weep over Jesus, (9) Jesus falls the third time, (10) he is stripped of his garments, (11) Jesus is nailed to the cross, (12) Jesus dies on the cross, (13) He is taken down from the cross, and (14) Jesus is placed in the sepulcher. The images are usually mounted on the inside walls of a church or chapel to assist us in meditating on each scene of Jesus’s passion and death.

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and lasts for approximately forty days.  During the weeks of Lent we try to prepare for Easter. We focus on prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.  Each Lent, I try to “give up” something. I have given up candy, lunch snacks, my favorite show… I have come to realize; however, that I should also be doing something extra during Lent.  Giving up something is a good thing but deciding to replace the giving up with an action is even more meaningful. For example, if I give up my favorite Netflix show each night and just watch a different show instead it is not really that difficult.  If instead I decide to use the time when I would watch the show to pray the Rosary or another prayer or even to call someone who might be lonely, that would be even better. If I give up my snack each day at lunch I could use the money I save to buy something for myself.  If instead, I choose to us the extra money to buy food for the poor that would be even better also. Giving up or going without something we like during Lent and replacing it with an action to bring me closer to God will help to make my 40 days of Lent even more meaningful.