The Columbus Bishop Hartley High School community gathered in prayer and celebration on Thursday, Sept. 11 as Bishop Earl Fernandes blessed the newly completed Marian Grotto.
Students, faculty, alumni and friends of Hartley filled the campus courtyard to witness the joyful occasion, which united faith, tradition and the school’s deep devotion to the Blessed Mother.
The Grotto, built through the generosity of donors and the dedication of Hartley families, faculty and staff, now stands as a spiritual centerpiece for the school. Nestled in the center courtyard of campus, the Grotto provides a peaceful space for prayer, reflection and devotion. At its heart is a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, reminding all who visit of her loving intercession and her guiding presence in the life of the Church. The particular depiction is the Immaculate Conception based off of the painting by the Spanish artist Murillo.
Principal Christopher Kowalski spoke about Mary as a model of discipleship and a source of inspiration for young people. “Mary shows us what it means to say ‘yes’ to God,” he said. “Here at Bishop Hartley, we look to this Grotto as a place where students can ask for Our Lady’s prayers, and seek the strength to live out their faith with courage.”
Mr. Kowalski also expressed gratitude for the many hands that brought the project to completion. “This grotto will be a lasting reminder of our mission, and we are so grateful to our very generous donors in the role they played,” he said. “We are especially grateful to Bishop Fernandes for his presence and blessing today, which deepens our bond with the wider Church.”
The Marian Grotto is the latest expression of Bishop Hartley’s commitment to nurturing the spiritual lives of its students. Classes and clubs will incorporate the Grotto into prayer services and devotional practices. For alumni and families, the Grotto stands as both a place of faith and a source of inspiration for the next generation of Hawks.
With Bishop Fernandes’ blessing, the Grotto now stands as a beacon of faith on campus — as Bishop Hartley High School fulfills its mission: “Transforming lives through the teachings of Jesus Christ within the Catholic tradition.”
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