By Jeremy Beck, Principal
Loyola Sacred Heart High School


"You will find, as you look back upon your life, that the moments that stand out are the moments when you have done things for others."
– Henry Drummond

You will not find more compassion or appreciation for people in our communities – those less fortunate and desperately needing help – than in graduating students in our Catholic schools. If you find yourself questioning the future of our nation, my suggestion is to spend time in our Diocese of Helena schools and get to know some of these students on a personal level. Sit back and rest assured knowing that our future is in good hands.

Loyola Sacred Heart High School requires a minimum of 100 hours of service work upon graduation. Most, if not all, pass that mark early on in their high school careers. To many, ministry starts with the family and the parish. Armed with the desire and talents bestowed on them by their parish life and family ministries, legacies of service and giving are evident when students arrive in the high schools across the diocese. With this nucleus of already dedicated students, others are quickly enveloped into the spirit of giving and quickly see the fulfillment that service work brings to one’s life.

Recently the LSH graduating class of 2009 showcased their culminating senior service projects for hundreds of people in the school auditorium. The students spent time visiting and explaining their projects to an audience of people ranging from young St. Joseph School students, grandparents of our seniors and long-time alumni of LSH. Each senior excitedly shared their experiences as the audience passed from student to student.

The service work ranged from working with the Humane Society and service dog training, working directly in local parish religious education and adult ministry programs, to working with young single mothers and the elderly in assisted-living units around Missoula. These young adults demonstrated a true understanding of the importance of service to their communities.

Couple this dedication with their many successes in academics and countless activities, and know that these students understand what unique experience and opportunity they have received in our schools. Many graduates have discovered a burning desire to give back with aspirations of teaching in our schools, coaching our youth, and providing significant contributions to our parish families and communities. We can all be proud of our young adults as they take the next major step in life – they will graduate and take this foundation of service across our state, nation and world.

Good luck and thank you from hundreds of people whose lives you have touched!


Published in The Montana Catholic, Vol. 25, No. 5, May 15, 2009.