February 24, 2010

Weather doesn’t dampen students’ liturgy

By John Gleason

The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception resonated with the clear voices of more than 500 10- and 11-year-old students the cold, slushy morning of Feb. 19 as schools came together for the annual Fifth Grade Liturgy.

The wet weather didn’t dampen the spirits of those gathered inside the cathedral. Carrying banners representing 18 Catholic schools from the Archdiocese of Denver, students processed into the church singing “Christ, Be Our Light” led by a student choir from Sacred Heart of Jesus School in Boulder.

The liturgy, which is celebrated by a bishop, is held each year at this time. Due to the large number of students, a second Mass will be celebrated on March 12. 

The idea to celebrate an annual Mass for fifth-graders was started by Cardinal J. Francis Stafford when he was archbishop of Denver.  Fifth-graders were selected because they’re mature enough to engage in conversation.

Auxiliary Bishop James D. Conley was the main celebrant at the Feb. 19 Mass, which was concelebrated by other priests of the archdiocese.  During his homily, he spoke about the importance of fasting during Lent.

“Fasting is very important to us in our faith,” he told the students.  “You’ll find fasting mentioned in both the Old and New Testaments.  Jesus went into the desert to fast for 40 days before beginning his life’s work.”

Eleven-year old Connor Clancy, a fifth-grader from St. Mary School in Greeley proclaimed one of the Scripture readings for the Mass.  He told the Denver Catholic Register the Fifth Grade Liturgy is a great idea.

“(Catholic school) students go to Mass a lot,” he said, “but here we have kids from all over.  It’s special that we can get together and pray with the bishop.”

 At the conclusion of the Mass, Bishop Conley acknowledged all the parents who attended as well as all the principals and pastors who were part of the celebration.  He then passed out crosses to all the students, suggesting that they wear them every day.

“I encourage you to look at these crosses often,” he said, “and when you do, remember how much Jesus loves you.”