The Augustinian Recollect schools around the world are preparing for the arrival of Christmas and, Anabel Juarez, principal of St. Benedict School in California, told us how the students are living this Advent season and what activities and projects are being promoted in the center during this time of the year.
St. Benedict School, founded in 1941 in the San Gabriel region of California, has established itself as an educational and spiritual reference in its community. With 415 students, it is the largest Catholic school in the area. Anabel has emphasized that commitment to academic excellence and Christian values are the fundamental pillars that define this institution: “It is a very large school, but also very welcoming and family-oriented. The teachers form a close-knit team and we work together to ensure the best learning environment for our students.”
“Reflect on this time of hope and preparation.”
As Anabel explained to us, with the arrival of Advent the school intensifies its focus on the spiritual formation of the students. This period, which marks the beginning of the liturgical year and prepares the heart for Christmas, is of great importance in the school calendar: “Each teacher is in charge of giving lessons on the meaning of Advent. From the youngest to the oldest, all students receive training that invites them to reflect on this time of hope and preparation.”
These explanations are in addition to the homilies that the students receive every Friday during the Eucharist: “In the school Masses we celebrate each week, this message is also emphasized. We want our students to understand that Advent is a time to wait with joy and prepare the heart for the birth of Jesus.”
Christmas Caroling and Christmas concert
The celebration of Christmas is another highlight of the school year. The traditional Christmas Caroling (carol singing) involves the school choir, composed of 60 students: “He usually performs every Friday or on family Sundays when there are visitors. Sometimes we go out to sing around the area, around the houses. It’s a very nice group.
Also, on the last day of school before the vacations, a Christmas concert is held : “The Christmas Concert”.Between songs, the children of the Drama Club act out the birth of Jesus. It is a beautiful way to remember the story of the Holy Family and the true meaning of Christmas”.
“The school feels brand new.”
St. Benedict’s is a school deeply rooted in tradition. Anabel has emphasized that many of the current students are children and grandchildren of former students. “It speaks volumes about who we are as a community. It’s a very nice thing for families to come back because they want their children to have the same experience at this school.” says Juarez.
In addition, this year, the school received a special gift from Shea Family Charities, which funded a comprehensive upgrade of the facilities: “The children started the year in a school that feels brand new. It was a wonderful gift. The improvements included new windows, floors, desks and paint. We’ve celebrated a lot.”
Anabel Juarez, who has been working for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles for 14 years, six of which have been as director of St. Benedict’s, considers her vocation to be what motivates her to keep going: “It is not an easy job, but with love and passion for what we do, every day is enjoyable. This is a school that combines tradition, community and innovation to offer our students a well-rounded education.” concluded.