CUBA CITY — On September 16, students from St. Rose of Lima School in Cuba City, Holy Ghost-Immaculate Conception School in Dickeyville and Kieler, and St. Joseph School in Hazel Green, came together with Bishop Donald J. Hying of Madison for the annual pastorate-wide All Schools Mass at St. Rose of Lima Church in Cuba City.
The joyful liturgy highlighted both the unity of the St. Dominic Pastorate and the vibrant faith of its youngest members.
From the opening procession, led by students carrying their school banners, the Mass reflected the spirit of collaboration and prayerful preparation.
Each school played an important role. Students served at the altar, proclaimed the readings, and lifted their voices in song as cantors.
Many students also served as greeters, welcoming classmates, families, and parishioners into the church.
A notable addition this year was the inclusion of the Mazzuchelli Prayer and the St. Michael Prayer at the beginning of Mass.
At the direction of Fr. Greg Ihm, parochial administrator of St. Dominic Pastorate, these prayers are now part of every parish liturgy, helping to ground the community in both the local history of Venerable Fr. Samuel Mazzuchelli, OP, and the universal call for spiritual protection.
In his homily, Bishop Hying spoke directly to the children, encouraging them to see their Catholic education not just as a place to learn, but as a way to grow closer to Jesus.
He reminded them that through faith, study, and community, they are preparing to become leaders and witnesses of Christ’s love in the world.
The joyful energy in the church made it clear: These young disciples are not only the future of the Church — they are also its present.