October 6, 2025

Dan Dougherty, President, Cristo Rey New York High School

Cristo Rey New York High School is a co-sponsored ministry of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus.

Cristo Rey New York High School gathered as a community for the first annual Mass of the Holy Spirit, marking the official start of the academic year with prayer, reflection, and celebration. The Mass, held in the school’s auditorium, was led by Bishop Edmund Whalen, who shared a powerful homily reminding students, faculty, and staff of the importance of inviting the Holy Spirit into their studies, relationships, and growth throughout the year.

The liturgy was enriched by the active participation of students, who served as lectors, while others assisted with the offertory and music.

Following the Mass, the community honored academic achievement with the Academic Convocations, recognizing the outstanding accomplishments of the previous school year. Awards were presented to students who excelled across subjects and demonstrated perseverance, commitment, and intellectual curiosity.

Together, the Mass of the Holy Spirit and the Academic Convocations set a tone of gratitude, inspiration, and purpose for the year ahead. By celebrating both faith and scholarship, the day highlighted the school’s mission to form students who are not only prepared for college and career but also guided by the values of service, justice, and faith.