EAST?PROVIDENCE – St. Margaret School in East Providence hosted Bishop Thomas J, Tobin May 2 for Mass and a school-wide visit. The entire school joined in the religious service as the bishop concelebrated Mass with Monsignor McCaffery, pastor of St. Margaret Church.
Then, Bishop Tobin spent time in each classroom. Principal, John Rezendes noted, “We are certainly honored by this special time with our bishop. He is such a tremendous supporter of our Catholic schools and the mission shared by us, as we impart the teachings of the Catholic faith to our youngsters.”
Rezendes said that each class “has something special prepared to share with him, including food, music, art and special surprises.”
True to the promise, the first stop was Ron Procopio’s 6th grade music class. As the bishop entered the room a chorus of “Good morning Bishop Tobin” rang out. But that was just the beginning. The theatre and music department is preparing for a performance of The Music Man on May 14 at East Providence High School, and the bishop was treated to a rousing rendition of 76 Trombones, with a spectacular solo by Nick Mercurio.
“What a way to start the day!” exclaimed Bishop Tobin. “That was wonderful.”
As he moved from classroom to classroom, he was accompanied by his student guide and 8th grade class secretary, Casey Botelho, Casey pointed out the artwork throughout the halls and the Bishop showed his appreciation.
“This artwork is terrific; I don’t think I could do this,” he said. Along the way he was treated to happy greetings and even a spontaneous version of the school song from the kindergarteners. The class regaled the bishop with a chorus of “St Margaret’s, you’re the best.”
In each classroom, Bishop Tobin chatted with students.
Inquisitive sixth grader Corey McKenna-Conoyer queried, “Why do you take the hat on and off?”
Other questions rang out as well. “Have you ever met the Pope?” “Did you plan to become a bishop?” “Where do you live?”
Bishop Tobin happily engaged the students in discussion that touched on the accruements of a bishop to the sacrifices each must make to achieve goals and live a life dedicated to Jesus. He told them, “There’s no easy path to success. In order to achieve our goals, we must be disciplined and prepared to sacrifice.”
In each classroom, the students and Bishop Tobin prayed the Hail Mary together and the bishop imparted his Episcopal blessing on them, as well as giving each student a prayer card as a remembrance.
Rezendes beamed, “I am so proud of our students and by this visit by the Bishop. It is such a boost for all of us and the school. What a great morning.”
