Cristo Rey Jesuit once again experienced another milestone and momentous occasion when His Eminence, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, made his inaugural visit to Houston’s newest and only college preparatory school dedicated to educating students from lower income families, giving them important work-study experience and getting them into college. More than 500 people attended the Eucharistic Celebration and joined students and staff in giving thanks for the many blessings that the school community has received and the great strides it has made in just a few short months. Cristo Rey Jesuit, opened its doors in August 2009 to more than 80 students.
Fr. TJ Martinez, SJ, President of Cristo Rey Jesuit, has described the school as “Houston’s Future.” The diverse congregation that gathered stood as proof that this sentiment is felt throughout the city: Cristo Rey Jesuit students and staff were joined by students’ families, board members, donors, corporate sponsors, politicians, and representatives from varied religious and secular groups. Other schools and parishes were honored and excited to join in the celebration. A musical prelude to the Mass was performed by the St. Thomas High School Men’s Choir, the Strake Jesuit and St. Agnes Academy Chamber Orchestra, the Co-Cathedral Sacred Heart Adult Quartet. The Knights of Columbus of Pearland participated by lining the center aisle as students, staff and the Board of Trustees processed into the school gym and took their seats.
Cardinal DiNardo stated his gratefulness for the opportunity to visit Cristo Rey Jesuit and thanked the congregation for all the work that has been done to make the school a success. He reminisced about his time as a student at a Jesuit High School and gave students advice that he was given long ago: A Jesuit education is both serious and joyful. Though it can be difficult at times, Cardinal DiNardo encouraged the students to persevere and work hard. He stressed the importance of never feeling self-pity during times of despair and always being gratified in times of prosperity and success.
Fr. Martinez described the night as a historic event. He addressed the crowd saying, “We have founded not only the newest Catholic college prep in the city, but more importantly, our incredible students, and all of you, are bravely sending a message to the rest of the city, state, nation, and indeed the world—every child in this country deserves a chance to go to college.” He also thanked the Cardinal for being a guardian and teacher of the Catholic faith and tradition, and serving as a national voice on crucial issues including education. “Your brave belief in us spurred us all to make this dream school turn into a reality, opening a year early,” he said. “And thus I consider you a true founding father.”
The evening ended with a celebratory reception in the Cristo Rey Café. A mariachi band played while guests dined on chili dogs and chips catered by James Coney Island. A multitude of desserts were provided by Cristo Rey Jesuit parents and volunteers.
