Updated story on May 10, 2024
It was standing room only in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Asbury Park, as hundreds gathered to celebrate their parish school’s 100th anniversary during a May 5 Mass of Thanksgiving. Divine Word Father Stephen Michael, pastor of Mother of Mercy Parish, served as principal celebrant. He was joined at the altar by other priests from the parish as well as former pastor, Trinitarian Father Gerard Lynch, who was homilist.
Alumni participated in the Mass and during the Presentation of the Gifts, 10 current OLMC students brought up candles, each representing the 10 decades of the school’s history. As each candle was brought forth, Sister of St. Joseph Jude Boyce, a former longtime principal, acknowledged highlights taking place during that particular decade and acknowledged all of the faculty, alumni, benefactors and deceased members who have been affiliated with the school community during the past century.
Father Michael holds up the papal blessing that was given to Our Lady of Mount Carmel School for its 100th anniversary. John Batkowski photo
Rosemary Corbo Paduano, who graduated in 1961, presented Father Michael with a papal blessing from Pope Francis. The school also received a proclamation from Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., on behalf of the Diocese and Monmouth County Commissioner director and OLMC School graduate, Thomas A. Arnone, presented a proclamation on behalf of the county.
“We are truly blessed to gather as a community to commemorate this momentous occasion,” said the school’s current principal, Kaitlyn O’Meara.
PHOTO GALLERY: Our Lady of Mount Carmel School’s centenary Mass
“It is through the dedication, support and faithfulness of each and every member of our community that we stand here today, celebrating 100 years,” she said. “The unwavering commitment that many have shown to our school has shaped the lives of countless individuals throughout the years. Together, we have built a legacy of excellence, compassion and service that continues to inspire generations. As we gather in thanksgiving, let us remember the countless blessings bestowed upon us and renew our commitment to the mission of our school.”
A visitor checks out the memorabilia on display
Impacts of a lifetime
At a reception that followed the Mass during which time visitors could tour the school and browse the historical memorabilia, current school families and alumni from generations’ past shared memories about their beloved grammar school.
Alfreda Baker, a parent of three recent graduates, commented on being grateful for the strong home-school connection and fondly recalled the years of love, laugher and learning that her children experienced.
I’m proud to have been part of this story for the past 20 of the 100 years we are celebrating,” she said.
“The values of Mount Carmel don’t stay in the school, they come home as well,” Baker continued. “Sometimes we get away from our faith and Mount Carmel is such a strong community it brings you in and draws you closer to the Lord and enriches the whole family from my experience.”
As parents of a current third grader, Kara and Caleb Pyle, residents of Bradley Beach and members of the town’s St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish, said they are pleased with their decision to send their son to Our Lady of Mount Carmel School.
“The teachers are a tremendous support system for [our son] and all the students,” Kara Pyle said.
Paduano, a 1961 graduate proudly shared she was a second generation OLMC School graduate. Her mother graduated from the school in 1927, then noted that several family members throughout three generations have attended the school as well.
While growing up, Paduano said the school and parish represented the center of their community and had a strong influence on their formative years.
Later in the day, the school community held another anniversary gathering at The Renaissance in Ocean Township, again drawing a throng of current families and alumni, including 101-year-old, Mary Crispi, who graduated from OLMC in 1937.
A Century of Presence at the Jersey Shore
Our Lady of Mount Carmel School has been a beacon of light and faith in Asbury Park throughout the past 100 years. The school was founded in 1923 by Trinitarian Father Anthony Giovannini in response to the growing Italian immigrant population of families who wanted a Catholic school in the area.
Ten current Our Lady of Mount Carmel School students each hold a candle representing the 10 decades of their school’s Catholic ministry.
The school was originally built on Bangs Avenue, and opened with an enrollment of 160 students. Eventually the school relocated to First Avenue in a facility to accommodate more students. The current building was opened in 1962 and over the years was staffed by various religious communities including the Religious Teachers Filippini, the Missionary Servants of the Sacred Heart and Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
Several religious communities have supplemented the mission of OLMC School including the Sisters of St. Joseph and Sisters of Mercy. In addition, the Marianites of Holy Cross and the Missionaries of Charity, have served with the parish’s religious education program.
Although founded by European immigrants, Today the school serves even more groups of immigrants such as Latin American and Haitian communities.
Extending congratulations on behalf of the Mary Queen of the Knights Council, Knights of Columbus, Neptune City, Anthony Goralski, Grand Knight, said, “Know that we Knights are here for you and will make sure this school is prosperous for another 200 years.”