On Wednesday, May 20, the Cathedral Prep community gathered for one of the most cherished traditions of the year — Mary’s Day. Rooted in the legacy of Villa Maria Academy, this special celebration honors Mary, the Blessed Mother and patroness of our school. Together, we reflected on her example of faith, courage, compassion, and service, values that continue to guide and inspire our school community each day.
The theme of today’s ceremony, as it is every year, was the Magnificat, Mary’s humble ‘yes’ to trust in God’s will, even when it was difficult. We prayed that all of us, especially our seniors, will demonstrate the strength needed to answer God’s call with the same courage of Mary.
Ten members of the Class of 2026 were nominated to serve as the May Court based on individual character, moral integrity, and commitment to faith. Maria Bruschi ’26, Anne-Catherine Brown ’26, Nora Cacchione ’26, Livia Moritz ’26, Matthew Oblich ’26, Jack Raimy ’26, Anthony Sirianni ’26, and Theodore Terrizzi ’26 were chosen along with May Queen Escort Joseph Bernatowicz ’26 and our May Queen Fina Bannister ’26.
Julie Yochim Ferraro '98VMA spoke to the students at the first assembly of the day. In addition, a Mary’s Day dance was performed by the Cathedral Prep Dance Ensemble, under the direction of Mrs. Jessica Lucas, and Lauren Proper ’26 sang “Wind Beneath My Wings” while Mr. Andrew Alesso accompanied on piano. Then according to custom, the students enjoyed cinnamon rolls during the distribution of heartfelt Mary’s Day letters to and from classmates. The crowning ceremony took place inside Saint Peter Cathedral with Proper and Natahly Rosales ’26 singing “Hail Mary: Gentle Woman” and Charlotte Przybylinski ’26 and Isabella Speros ’26 singing “Ave Maria.” Alonna Hudson ’26 closed out the ceremony with her rendition of the “Song of Mary.” We would like to extend a huge thank you to our Campus Minister Emily Grenci for organizing the day’s events!
We are proud to share with you that Mary’s Day lives on as a ceremony that reflects the faith, community, and true spirit of the Cathedral Prep family. 🕊
📸 More photos of the day can be found at www.cathedralprep.com/marysday. 📸
