At the Opening School Mass on Thursday, August 21, the Mount St. Mary Academy community joined together in the McAuley Center to bless the new school year – its 175th since its founding in 1851 – and officially welcome the MSM Class of 2029 into its sisterhood and House of Mercy.
Comprised of 154 students from over 20 different schools, the newest class began its journey as Mount sisters in a very symbolic way by walking through the school’s historic front gate and then entering the gymnasium through an honor guard. The only other time the class will walk through an honor guard together will be as seniors when they leave the Closing Prayer Service on their final day of high school and then exit through the gate.
During Mass, the Class of 2029 also took part in the first of four important traditions experienced by all students at Mount St. Mary: the presentation of the Mercy Cards, which feature the school’s shared Mercy Values.
MSM Assistant Head of School Robin Johnson addressed the class after each new student’s name was called to receive her card, reminding them that their Mercy Card was not something to receive lightly or hide in a wallet. “It is important. It represents the mission that you will take on by being a student here at our school,” Dr. Johnson said. “To be compelled by mercy, to have educational courage, to be inspired by faith, to be a principled leader, and to have a voice for the dignity and respect of others.”
The special all-school Mass ended with another tradition as Student Body President Josie Wrape ’26 announced this year’s button theme: “There’s No Other Like Her.” The words, a part of Mount’s alma mater, are not just descriptive of the school and its sisterhood. The theme is more importantly a nod to the Blessed Mother and meant to remind students all year long that, just like their school’s namesake, they are called to be humble servants of God and to faithfully accept His plan for their lives.
“On the button, we have the verse Luke 1:38, which says ‘I am the Lord’s servant, Mary answered. May your word to me be fulfilled,’” Josie said. “My challenge to you all this year is to say yes to God and to use the people around you to build your relationship with Him. Fulfill His Word and plan with your lives.”
Mount St. Mary Academy is proud to welcome the Class of 2029 and excited to celebrate its 175th birthday all year long!
