Candlemas

Last week, the younger Faith Formation students learned about the Feast of the Presentation. They listened to the story of Jesus being presented in the Temple and discovered how Simeon and Anna recognized Jesus' light with joy and faithfulness. Using wooden figures, they reenacted the story, moving Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus, Simeon, and Anna through the scene. To celebrate Jesus as the Light, the children enjoyed a hands-on candle-making activity, rolling beeswax candles to take home as a reminder of sharing Christ’s light in the world.

The older students explored the connection between art, spirituality, and architecture at Calvary.  They learned about Ralph Adams Cram’s vision and the three natural laws of church architecture—verticality, permanence, and iconography—and how these elements shape the sacred space of Calvary. During a guided church tour, students observed the towering ceilings, intricate stonework, and stained glass windows, discussing their spiritual significance. They also reflected on the new stained glass project and its role in Calvary’s legacy.  To deepen their understanding, students participated in a gold foil embellishment activity, applying gold leaf to a Good Shepherd icon as a reflection on Christ’s divine light and the role of sacred art in faith.
For more on the awe-inspiring art and architecture of Calvary, check out the digital guide book here (hard copies available to purchase in Calvary bookstore).