Prep Talk
Catholic Schools Week 2017: Eagle Scout, Joseph O’Keefe (’19)
Posted January 31st, 2017
As reflected during masses across the diocese – Sunday, January 29th kicked off this year’s Catholic Schools Week!
Shared from www.ncea.org
Since 1974, National Catholic Schools Week is the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. It starts the last Sunday in January and runs all week, which in 2017 is January 29 – February 4. The theme for the National Catholic Schools Week 2017 is “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service.” Schools typically observe the annual celebration week with Masses, open houses and other activities for students, families, parishioners and community members. Through these events, schools focus on the value Catholic education provides to young people and its contributions to our church, our communities and our nation.
Monday’s theme calls for a celebration of our community and the importance of service to others. Service to our fellow citizens and to our beloved communities are a large part of the St. Augustine Prep experience. As any current or past Hermit can attest, service projects have provided their most memorable experiences and brought about the most spiritual growth during their time at the Prep.
Today’s spotlight shines on sophomore Joseph O’Keefe (’19), who spent parts of his Christmas break with former Commander-in-chief, President Barack Obama, at the White House. Joseph was blessed with the honor through his hard-earned rank of Eagle Scout. Joseph joins a distinguished list of Hermits that have earned the lofty honor – like those who came before him, Joe’s accomplishment was a result of his generous service to the community. His thoughtful Eagle Scout project assisted his local K-9 Unit which is based out of Cape May County. Word of his service project spread and Joe was rewarded with a Christmas trip to the White House to assist in decorating festivities.
Joseph’s donation of time, effort and compassion is one that is known as a staple within the fabric of all of our selfless Hermits! The importance of service to others is consistently emphasized as a focal point of Catholic education. Much like our fellow Catholic schools, St. Augustine Prep understands that by participating in these types of service projects, our students learn the importance of making an impact in their community. Even better, our students also learn how to serve as an example for others to help make the world a better place! Congratulations Joe!