Basilica School of Saint Mary celebrates 150th anniversary

The Basilica School of Saint Mary celebrated its 150th anniversary during a weekend filled with events to commemorate the historic occasion on October 18 through 20. Founded in 1869, it is the largest and oldest parochial school in the Diocese of Arlington.

“The longevity of our school is a testament to the generations of faithful parishioners and families that believe one of the most important things our parish community can do is to provide a Christ-centered education for our children,” said Father Edward Hathaway, Rector of the Basilica of Saint Mary. “Our mission still remains the same after 150 years, to partner with parents in forming future men and women of faith and virtue.”

Hundreds of parishioners, school families and alumni participated throughout the weekend. Events included an alumni happy hour, a birthday bash on the blacktop, a spaghetti dinner, an alumni breakfast and Mass.

“Having the opportunity to gather together and celebrate something as momentous as a 150th anniversary is an amazing blessing,” said Daniel Cinalli, Principal at the Basilica School of Saint Mary. “There has been a lot of spirit, friendship and community displayed during this celebration.”

Weekends like this, and the newly formed Basilica School of Saint Mary Alumni Association, are helping alumni like Tom Culbertson reconnect with their former classmates.

“Curiosity brought me here today,” said Culbertson, who graduated in 1969 and now resides near Mount Vernon. “I had about 150 classmates and spent nine years with these folks. I am curious to see how their lives turned out.”

Current students welcomed the returning alumni and gave them tours of the campus. The students were enthusiastic to share their experiences at the school as they talked with alumni who walked the same halls decades ago.

“It will be awesome to be part of the 150th graduating class,” said Elizabeth McMahon, an eighth grader and President of the Basilica School of Saint Mary Student Council. “I have enjoyed my time here. Everyone here is really friendly and the teachers are so kind to you.”

The Basilica of Saint Mary will commemorate a historic anniversary next year. The parish will celebrate its 225th anniversary in 2020.

 

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