On Tuesday, December 10, 2024, students, staff, trustees, honourable guests and members of the HCDSB community gathered for the official Blessing and Dedication Ceremony of St. Veronica Catholic Elementary School in Milton!
A blessing of the water rite, as well as a blessing of the school site and classroom crosses was officiated by His Excellency, the Most Reverend Wayne Lobsinger, Auxiliary Bishop with the Diocese of Hamilton, assisted by Lawrence Parent, Pastor at St. Benedict Parish in Milton.
Quotes
“Today marks an important milestone in the history and evolution of this dynamic school community in Milton…A special thank you must be extended to our parent community for their collaboration and support as we established St. Veronica into the outstanding school community that it is today.
Together, we will continue to provide our students with the gift of Catholic education, rooted in the Gospel values of Jesus Christ. Congratulations to each of you, and best wishes as you continue to grow as a community of learners, pursuing excellence in Catholic education!”鈥� Marvin Duarte, Chair of the Board
“Inspired by the tender and courageous example of our Patron Saint, St. Veronica reminds us that even the smallest acts of love can create ripples that transform the world.
With her simple yet profound gesture of wiping the face of Jesus, she showed us the power of kindness, compassion, and courage; values at the very core of our faith and of our school. As we reflect on her legacy, we pledge to name the school a sanctuary of warmth, belonging; a radiant light of Christ. This school will be a place where every child feels safe, valued and cherished. A community where love, kindness, and respect guide every action…Thank you for being here to celebrate this special day with us in recognition of this new journey. And thank you to this community for being a reflection of St. Veronica鈥檚 values each and every day.鈥�
鈥� Angie Barden, Principal of St. Veronica Catholic Elementary School
Highlights of the Day
- Musical performances were presented by St. Veronica students throughout the ceremony.
- Guests were welcomed by Emma Murphy, Vice-Chair of the Board and Milton Trustee, Wards 2 & 3.
- The Master of Ceremonies included St. Veronica CES student, Kaiden Caluag.
- Greetings were shared by Marvin Duarte, Chair of the Board and Milton Trustee; John Klein, Director of Education; and Angie Barden, Principal of St. Veronica Catholic Elementary School.
- Special guests of the day included parents in the St. Veronica community, the Knights of Columbus of the Bishop Reding Assembly, HCDSB Trustees, Union Presidents, members of HCDSB’s senior leadership team, as well as school administrators, and members of the Milton Community.
- Appreciation is extended to Zee Hamid, Member of Provincial Parliament; Gordon Krantz, Mayor of Milton; and Adil Khalqi, Milton Town Councillor for Ward 3 for attending the ceremony!
