Saint Bernard Preparatory School

MARCH FOR LIFE 2012

2012-01-26T06:55:00.001-08:00

On Friday, January 20, 2012, twenty-eight St. Bernard Preparatory School students left their campus for Washington, D.C. for the annual March for Life that was held on Monday, January 23, the St. Bernard group was accompanied by School President Fr. Joel Martin, O.S.B. and Chaplain Fr. Bede Marcy, O.S.B. and two St. Bernard parents. They joined with representatives from various schools and parishes on the overnight trek to D.C. traveling together in four buses, with three other buses taking a different route.

“I was overwhelmed with our students’ response to the opportunity offered by the Diocese of Birmingham. Over one third of our Upper School, grades 9-12, attended the event; that’s outstanding; the largest percentage of students from any school in the Diocese,” Fr. Joel said.

Leaving at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, the group arrived at the Capitol in D.C. at about 7:00 a.m. on Saturday. The full weekend included a tour of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception adjacent to Catholic University, Mass at the Shrine celebrated for all those gathered from the Diocese of Birmingham, a day at various museums and other sites on and near the Mall, a night tour of the monuments, etc.

Finally Monday arrived and the St. Bernard bus toured the central area of Washington, including the White House, the new FDR Memorial and the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Then all from the Diocese of Birmingham assembled in front of the U.S. Capitol Building for a meeting with Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions who addressed the group and patiently answered questions under a slight drizzle.

After meeting with Senator Sessions, all proceeded to begin the March a few blocks from the Capitol. There St. Bernard students united with the overwhelming crowd of thousands that marched from the Mall past the Capitol to the Supreme Court Building where in 1973 the judiciary branch of our government opened the way for abortion in our country.

The March was both serious and joyful: banners, flags, bands and bagpipes, singing, chanting, and praying.

Fr. Joel commented, “People were urgent about the cause and filled with the enthusiasm of an army of American teenagers, all born after the legalization of abortion in their country and happy to be alive in a country that allows death instead of birth.”

After the March, all boarded the buses and made the overnight trip home to Alabama, arriving Tuesday morning exhausted, but enthused by the experience of joining so many in defending human lives.

Prep School students headed to Washington, DC

2012-01-19T09:51:00.000-08:00

Students at St. Bernard Preparatory School are leaving for Washington, DC in support of the annual March for Life 2012 Rally. Forty-three students and four chaperones are scheduled to join three other groups from Alabama. The group plans to leave Friday afternoon and arrive in Washington, DC early Saturday morning.

Upon arrival in DC. Students will tour Arlington National Cemetery in the morning and the Basilica – National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in the afternoon where they will have a special mass celebrated by Bishop Robert Baker just for the Alabama delegation.

After Mass the groups will head to the hotel and enjoy pizza in the hotel ballroom before checking into their rooms.

Sunday consists of free time in the Mall of DC, visiting museums, Mass at St. Dominic’s Catholic Church, and a mini-youth rally.

Monday will be more free time at the mall in preparation for the March for Life rally in the afternoon. Immediately after the March, students are boarding the buses to arrive home early Tuesday morning.

Dyron’s Lowcountry Restaurant hosts St. Bernard Prep

2012-01-18T06:24:00.000-08:00

Dyron’s Lowcountry Restaurant in Mountain Brook will open Monday night, January 23, to welcome patrons for a benefit dinner in support of St. Bernard Prep School in Cullman.

Dyron’s Lowcountry Restaurant is owned by Dyron Powell, who graduated from St. Bernard Prep in 1991, and his wife, Sonya. It specializes in cuisine from the coastal regions of the South. “We offer regional entrees and seafood dishes familiar to folks from Charleston to New Orleans,” said Powell. “We’re dedicated to giving our customers the finest food in a comfortable setting.”

Powell, who joined the Board of Directors of St. Bernard Preparatory School in 2009, said, “When I enrolled as a student at St. Bernard, I had opportunities that were never available to me before. By sponsoring this benefit dinner, I hope to help others who may have been in my situation have the same opportunities.”

For reservations mail your check ($75 per person) to Fr. Marcus Voss, OSB, St. Bernard Prep School, 1600 St. Bernard Drive, SE, Cullman, AL 35055 or call the office at (256)739-6682.

For more information on Dyron’s Lowcountry visit www.dyronslowcountry.com.

Booster club drawdown tickets available

2012-01-18T06:08:00.000-08:00

St. Bernard Booster Club is preparing for the Annual Drawdown Benefit Dinner for St. Bernard Prep School to be held Saturday, February 4, 2012 at the Fazi-Richard Athletic Center.

Booster Club President, Raymond Webb, said he is looking forward to another evening of fun and fellowship with St. Bernard supporters. “This is the Booster Club’s way of helping to offset the cost of the athletic program at St. Bernard. It is a fun way to get involved with other parents and supporters.”

Tickets for the event are $100 and include dinner for two adults, games and the social hour. The ticket pull order and prize amount as follows: first out wins $100; the 446th ticket out wins $250; 447th out wins $500; 448th out wins $750; 449th out wins $1,000 and the last ticket out wins $10,000.

Leah Messick and Erika Webb are heading up the silent auction in conjunction with the event. Donations for the silent auction or can be made by contacting Mrs. Messick at (256)775-3962 or Raymond Webb at (256)338-7885.

Doors open at 5 p.m. Meals will be served at 6 p.m. and the drawdown will begin at 7 p.m. Webb said tickets only 433 tickets are available. Ticket holders do not have to be present to win. For tickets see Fr. Marcus Voss, Mr. John Tekulve, Mr. William Calvert , or Saints Booster Club Members- Raymond Webb (256)338-7885 and Mark Pudles (256)507-1748. To order by mail, checks should be payable to: St. Bernard Athletic Booster Club, P.O. Box 1838, Cullman, AL 35055.

Tekulve appointed Headmaster at St. Bernard

2012-01-13T08:57:00.000-08:00

Retirement was just not an option for newly appointed St. Bernard Preparatory School, Headmaster, John Tekulve.

A native of Cullman, Tekulve and his wife Dora, who also teaches in the school, have been associated with St. Bernard for many years. A respected educator, he served as teacher and administrator in local public schools for many years before coming to St. Bernard Prep. He began as a classroom instructor and later helped found St. Bernard Middle School in August of 2007, serving as its first Principal.

Fr. Joel Martin, President of St. Bernard Prep says, “We are happy and grateful that Mr. Tekulve has accepted this position. He is a proven administrator and leader and I know the school will thrive under his guidance.”

Tekulve said he is glad to be back at St. Bernard after being away for several months. “I got a lot of my projects done at home, but you can only dust and arrange the spice rack so many times,” laughed Tekulve.

Getting acclimated to his new surroundings and reorienting himself with basic procedures has not created a big challenge to his new role at the school. Tekulve said everything was well organized and running very well so Fr. Joel made the transition very easy. “We have excellent teachers, the office is well organized and everything is in place.”

Second semester saw growth at the school. A total of nine students enrolled -five for the high school which consisted of four boarding students, two of which are international, and one day student. The Middle School admitted four new students, which consisted of three boarding students, two of which are international, and one day student.

Tekulve indicated that January will be a very busy month. Fr. Joel Martin, the newly appointed President, is taking 40 students to participate in the March of Life 2012 in Washington, DC on Friday January 20. On January 23 there is a benefit dinner at Dyron’s Lowcountry in Mountain Brook, Alabama for St. Bernard Prep. In the athletic program, Basketball Homecoming is scheduled for January 27 when SBP takes on Addison High School.

Tekulve went on to say, “The St. Bernard faculty are providing a top-notch education. Anyone who is looking for a first-rate education should consider St. Bernard Prep School.”

For more information about St. Bernard Preparatory school, contact Dr. Donna Bryant, the Director of Admissions, at 256-739-6682 ext 7128.

Br. Linus Klucsarits Makes First Vows at St. Bernard Abbey

2012-01-13T08:19:00.000-08:00

January 6, 2012 – On the Feast of the Epiphany, Abbot Cletus Meagher, OSB, of St. Bernard Abbey received the first vows from Br. Linus Klucsarits. Given the name of Paul Thomas Klucsarits at his baptism, he took the new name of Br. Linus to begin his journey in religious life at St. Bernard Abbey in Cullman.

After the homily, Fr. Kevin McGrath, OSB, presented Br. Linus to Abbot Cletus. During the ceremony, Br. Linus sang the psalm verse, “Uphold me, O Lord, according to your promise and I shall live; let my hope in you not be in vain” and the monastic community responded with the same. He then received the monastic habit and a copy of the Rule of St. Benedict. The ceremony concluded with the sign of peace.

Br. Linus, the son of Mr. and Mrs. William Klucsarits, came to St. Bernard from Allentown, PA. He is the second of five children.

A product of Catholic schools, Br. Linus attended St. Charles Seminary in Philadelphia, PA, and is an alumnus of Gallaudet University where he earned a BA in philosophy and obtained his MA in sign language interpreting. He is currently a graduate student at UAB where he is preparing to teach “English as a Second Language (ESL).

Br. Linus is quick to say that this is not his first time being in a monastery. “I was a monk at St. Vincent Archabbey in Latrobe, PA. Basically it was a little too big for me. I was looking for a smaller community. I left there and worked for a couple of years at Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf, where I was the lead interpreter and coordinator of the interpreter services for the deaf staff.“

It was during these two years that his spiritual advisor asked him to consider monastic life at St. Bernard. Br. Linus commented, “Monastic observance has been most impressive at St. Bernard. I enjoy how the monks chant the office, and are very faithful to the praying of the office, the public prayer of the monastery.”

Abbot Cletus and the monks of St. Bernard Abbey welcomed Br. Linus into the community on July 11, 2011. During this time before his vows he worked in the monastery and taught freshman religion in the high school.

For the forty-six year old monk, his days are now spent doing assigned chores around the monastery and using his morning time to do reading, graduate work, and getting ready for class. “We have mid-day prayers, and in the afternoon I teach in the high school,” he said. “We have mass at 5 pm, vespers at 5:30 and compline at 7 p.m.”

Br. Linus continued, “By taking first vows, which is a commitment for three years, my desire is to bond more completely with the community and really become a part of the community at St. Bernard Abbey.”

Wren Thornton wins Spelling Bee

2012-01-10T13:15:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to St. Bernard Middle School students Arnel Calinao and Wren Thornton for their outstanding spelling performance at the recent school Spelling Bee. Wren won the competition with the word disappoint, and will represent St. Bernard at the County Spelling Bee, January 30, 2012. Pictured with Arnel and Wren are Middle School Principal William Calvert, and Spelling Bee Coordinator, Martha Ann Warnke.

Guests from Germany visit St. Bernard

2011-12-12T07:56:00.000-08:00

Iwer Rosenboom and Wanda Rosenboom of Zweibrucken, Germany, visited St. Bernard during their vacation in the United States this past autumn. Wanda is the grand-niece of Fr. Benedict Oberdoerfer, O.S.B., and Br. Osmund Oberdoerfer, O.S.B., who were monks at St. Bernard in the early 1900s.

“My mother, whose maiden name was Elizabeth Oberdoerfer, was the niece of Br. Osmund and Fr. Benedict,” said Mrs. Rosenboom. “All my life I have heard stories of my great-uncles who came to America and entered a monastery in Alabama. I wanted to come and see the place and visit their graves. I have taken pictures of their grave markers and the beautiful buildings at St. Bernard to show my family when we return home.”

“There were five children in the Oberdoerfer family,” she continued. “Fr. Benedict and Br. Osmund left home and came to America and entered the Benedictine Order in Alabama. One of the great-aunts became a nun. That was Sr. Anna Oberdoerfer who stayed in Germany. She was a school teacher and was killed during the Second World War in April 1945.”

Fr. Benedict and Br. Osmund were among the monks who originally came to St. Bernard to serve the needs of the many German speaking Catholic families who settled in north Alabama in the late 1800s. Fr. Benedict arrived at St. Bernard in 1894 and his brother arrived in 1897.

Fr. Benedict spent most of his years in the classroom. He taught Latin, Greek, mathematics and chemistry. He studied at the University of Chicago and Notre Dame University where he received his Master’s degree. He was best known as a professor of chemistry, a subject he taught until two years prior to this death in 1951.

Br. Osmund, a favorite of the students, was an assistant in the dining facilities. Working in the bakery for over 30 years, he was remembered by many early alumni as the monk who brought fresh-made rolls and bread to the kitchen. He was 60 years old at the time of this death in 1940.

The Rosenbooms brought with them documents and pictures that had been kept by the Oberdoerfer family. One document showed that a memorial Mass had been offered in memory of the two monks after their deaths. They also carried with them a photograph that had been taken when Br. Osmund and Fr. Benedict had returned to Germany for a family visit.

St. Bernard Prep School Announces New Leadership Appointments

2011-12-09T11:37:00.000-08:00

Abbot Cletus Meagher, O.S.B., and the St. Bernard Preparatory School Board of Directors announced key leadership changes during their quarterly meeting held on Friday, December 9, 2011. These changes are part of the ongoing plan for St. Bernard Abbey and School to implement the strategic plan for the overall growth and expansion of its educational and other various ministries.

Fr. Marcus Voss, O.S.B., who for the past 20 years has served as President of the Prep School as well as the Head of Development, will now be dedicated full time to the work of development. As the Director of Development and Alumni Affairs, Fr. Marcus will be responsible for the annual appeal programs, the planned giving program and the upcoming new capital campaign. In addition, Fr. Marcus will continue his work with the alumni affairs office and oversee the alumni reunion held each year in June. The Office of Marketing and Public Relations as well as the sponsorship of the annual Bloomin’ Festival will operate as part of the development office.

Fr. Joel Martin, O.S.B., who has served as Headmaster for the past 15 years, has accepted the appointment as President of St. Bernard Prep School. In his new role, Fr. Joel will be responsible for the overall operation of the school. His administrative team will include the Headmasters of the Middle School and High School, the Director of Admissions, the Athletic Director, the Directors of Residential Life, and the Business Manager. He will also have oversight for Camp St. Bernard, the English as a Second Language (ESL) Program, the School’s Physical Plant and the President’s Administrative Staff.

Mr. John Tekulve, a noted Cullman educator, has accepted the position of Headmaster of the high school division of St. Bernard Preparatory School. Mr. Tekulve had previously served as the founding Headmaster of the St. Bernard Middle School and Assistant-Headmaster of St. Bernard High School. Prior to his work at St. Bernard, Mr. Tekulve had been a highly regarded principal, assistant principal, teacher and coach in both the Cullman City and County School Systems. As Headmaster, Mr. Tekulve will be in charge of the academic, extracurricular and associated programs of the overall operation of the high school.

In announcing these new appointments, Abbot Cletus expressed his gratitude to Fr. Marcus, Fr. Joel and Mr. Tekulve for their dedicated service to St. Bernard and offered his congratulations on their new appointments. “These appointments are an effort to continue the rich legacy of past generations who devoted their lives to a love for the truth and a desire to pass on that wisdom to another generation,” said Abbot Cletus. “I am confident that Fr. Marcus, Fr. Joel and Mr. Tekulve will make a difference in the lives of the young men and women who come to St. Bernard and their efforts in their new roles will be successful.”

Keefe attends National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine

2011-12-07T07:30:00.001-08:00

Anna Caroline Keefe, a sophomore at St. Bernard Preparatory School, joined young scholars from across the nation by recently participating in the National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine (NYLF/MED) in Los Angeles, CA. Anna Caroline joined other high school students from around the country who demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential and an interest in a career in medicine.

Throughout the 6-day forum, NYLF/MED introduced students to a variety of concepts in public health, medical ethics, research and general practice and included site visits to medical facilities and clinics. Scholars were engaged in a simulation using problem-based learning, an educational method in which students were presented a fictional patient’s case history and diagnosed and developed a treatment plan for the patient. “Each student may very well be the face of the future of medicine,” said NYLF Dean of Academic Affairs, Dr. Marguerite C. Regan. “The National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine creates a virtual classroom with hospitals, clinical facilities and healthcare professionals. By shadowing key personnel, these students had a great opportunity to gain a behind-the-scenes perspective on a medical career. The timing is critical as young people explore their career paths, just prior to immersing themselves in college coursework.”

In addition to visiting cutting-edge medical schools and clinical facilities, Anna Caroline along with other scholars had the opportunity to hear from and interact with leaders within the medical field. Students engaged personally with physicians, surgeons, researchers, scientists and medical educators as they viewed these professionals at work.

NYLF is an educational organization that brings various professions to life, empowering young people with the confidence to make well informed career choices. NYLF has provided programming to more than 100,000 young people.

Broadway Musical Presented at St. Bernard Prep School

2011-12-06T08:13:00.000-08:00

The Heidrich Library Building was transformed into the perfect stage setting as students from the drama department performed the Broadway musical “Into the Woods” recently at St. Bernard Prep School in Cullman, AL. The wooded scenery and transparent rooms set the stage for the musical production presented December 1st through 4th.

“Into the Woods” opened with the stories of Jack (Miss Katie Hawkins) and the Beanstalk, Cinderella (Shelby Bailey/Yoon Choi), and the Baker (Sam Shin) and his wife (Madeline Schweers). It is from the latter two that Red Riding Hood (Jerrica Crawford/Siobhan Russell) got her goodies for her grandmother, and they are the focus of the story. The baker and his wife must enter the woods to assemble the ingredients for a potion required by their neighbor, the Witch (Elaida Dimwamwa), to remove a curse preventing them from having a child. In their search, the Baker and his wife meet up with Jack, Red Riding Hood, and the Wolf (Austin Steele), as well as Cinderella, Rapunzel (So Hyun Park) and their respective Princes. These characters are all busy with their own fairy tales, but each possessed one ingredient for the potion.

Other characters consisted of Cinderella’s Father (Blake Crabtree) and Cinderella’s mother (Yoon Choi / Shelby Bailey), Cinderella’s Stepmother (Jenny Lee). Florinda was played by Abbey André; Jack’s mother (Leslie O’Donnell), Lucinda (Siobhan Russell / Rhiana Griffin), Milky White (Collene O’Donnell), Granny (Bethany Merrill), Mysterious Man (Black Crabtree), Rapunzel’s Prince (Br. David Bryant / Sean Moriarty), Steward (Joseph Rivera). Narrators were Bethany Merrill and Minsang Kim. The Wolf and Cinderella’s Prince were played by Austin Steele.

The Technical Crew consisted of Veronica Arndt, Director’s Assistant and lighting cues; Michael James II, Lighting; Luke Merrill, Lighting assistant; Sean Macfarlane, Sound Board; Ayleana Mami, Music Cues; Jade Bradford, Stage Left Manager; and Jake Lewis, Stage Right Manager. |

The cast was under the direction of Mr. and Mrs. Rodney Fike. His first year at St. Bernard, this was Fike’s first time directing a musical at the school.

Fr. Joel Martin, Headmaster said, “I saw all four performances and felt like a proud parent each time. How our students make it happen with such little time is a mystery.”

Honor Society induction held at St. Bernard

2011-11-17T10:55:00.000-08:00

Saint Bernard Preparatory School recently inducted thirteen students into the National Honor Society. National Honor Society requires a student to maintain an overall cumulative GPA of 90 while completing required courses in math, science, and foreign language. In addition, the student must have demonstrated leadership qualities, offered service to his school and community, and exhibited outstanding personal character.

The induction ceremony was conducted by NHS president, Michael James II. Other senior members who assisted during the program included: Mark McDaniel, Elaida Dimwamwa, Yoon Choi, Maddie Schweers, and Michael Schartung.

Newly inducted members were: Nathan Denson, Cristi Caples, Aymee Chauvin, Jerrica Crawford, Bennett Glasscock, Tina Martin, Sean Macfarlane, So Hyun Park, John Schneider, Min Bo Shim, Sam Shin, Caitlin Varquez, and Andy Woods.

During the ceremony the new inductees repeated the honor society pledge, and were presented certificates of membership by Headmaster, Fr. Joel Martin, and National Honor Society faculty moderator, Mrs. Margaret Hinson.

After the program a reception was held in the library for all members and their parents.

Middle School students assists families

2011-11-17T06:29:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving just got better for a few families in Cullman as students at St. Bernard Preparatory Middle School collected enough food to adopt as many as four families through Saint Vincent de Paul at Sacred Heart Church in Cullman.

Martha Ann Warnke, who spearheads the canned food drive, was delighted with the food items being donated. “We sent a request for everything a family needs for Thanksgiving dinner, and we are so happy with the way our students and their families responded.”

William Calvert, principal at St. Bernard Middle School, said the students collected the food items in just over one week, and were to be commended for their generous contributions.

Among the contributed items were turkeys, hams, canned pumpkin, cranberry sauce, green beans, cream style corn, canned sweet potatoes, stuffing mix, marshmallows, jello, frozen pie shells, pudding mix.

Ecumenical Prayer Service held at St. Bernard

2011-11-17T06:27:00.000-08:00

Heavy rains didn’t dampen the grateful spirit of ministers from North Alabama who joined in the recent Ecumenical Thanksgiving Prayer Service at St. Bernard Prep School. Rev. Joel Martin, SBP Headmaster, said annually students and staff invite the ministers, priests and religious of their churches to participate in the celebration.

Leading the opening prayer was The Rev. Robert Blackwell from Grace Episcopal Church in Cullman. Scripture readings were given by Sr. Teresa Walsh of Annunciation of the Lord Catholic Church in Decatur; The Rev. Mitchell Williams, First United Methodist Church in Cullman, and The Rev. Andrew Siegenthaler, Christ Covenant Presbyterian Church in Cullman.

Delivering the homily for the celebration was The Rev. Dr. Edwin Hayes, pastor of First Baptist Church in Cullman. Dr. Hayes reminded the congregation of students, staff and guests of how Thanksgiving came to be a national holiday, remembering the pilgrims and the hardships they faced on their journey to America.

“Thanksgiving is a blessing to those who express it. It is a time to be thankful for those who have gone before us. We owe a debt to those before us and those after us. We did not just inherit the land from our fathers; we are borrowing it from our children and our grandchildren. Therefore, we have a responsibility to care for this world that God has created," Rev. Hayes said.

After the sermon, students offered prayers of thanksgiving/petition, during which gifts representing the prayers were offered at the altar of the Abbey Church. Thanks was expressed for the harvest that makes our lives possible, and all creation; the freedom of our Country, our armed forces, and elected officials; parents, teachers, and friends; education and wisdom; athletic abilities, people of all faiths, and loved ones who have died.

Music was provided by Alex Ginas, trumpet, Agnes Jeong, flute, and Yoon Choi, piano, under the direction of Lester Harris; and Mary Standifer, violinist; and the St. Bernard Choral group under the direction of Mr. Rodney Fike.

“This St. Bernard tradition is a happy one,” said Fr. Joel, “and we look forward to it every year.” “The men and women who come to us for the celebration are very busy, yet they take pains to join us because they are so important in the lives of the students who invite them.”

Thanksgiving dinner was enjoyed by all in the dining hall immediately after the celebration; students waited on the visiting clergy.

St. Bernard Prep’s Ayleana Mami to compete in Australia for Alabama and USA

2011-11-09T11:34:00.000-08:00

Saint Bernard Prep School’s Ayleana Mami has been selected to represent Alabama on the 2012 National Western Conference Track and Field Team in Australia. Chris Pella, Recruiting Coordinator, International Sports Specialist, Inc. from Down Under Sports said Mami was invited because of her outstanding performance last year at the Alabama High School Athletic Associations State Meet.

Mami currently holds the 1A title for the 1600 meter run as well as the 3200 meter run. “Ayleana is an outstanding athlete who has captured the eyes of several coaches from the State of Alabama who think she will be the perfect addition to the Alabama and USA International Team to participate in Australia,” Pella said. “This program is much like the Olympics. Only 300 athletes are accepted to compete at the International competition.”

To participate, fifteen year old Mami must raise $5,000. She is reaching out to her family, community, and friends to donate towards the cost of competing Down Under. “I am honored to be an ambassador of not only our community and state, but also my country. However, sponsorships are necessary to make this dream come true for me,” Mami said.

For Mami the competition held July 1-9, 2012 in Sydney Australia offers her a once in a lifetime opportunity. Sponsorships of $20 or more dollars will qualify supporters for some great prizes too. The first draw will win: 2 all expense paid trips to the 2012 Down Under Sports Competition in Australia and Hawaii. All entries must be received by ISSI no later than 5 p.m. MST on June 1, 2012- entries received by this time will be entered into both drawings.

The second draw will win: A 5-day Caribbean Cruise for two. All entries must be received by ISSI no later than 5 PM MST on August 1, 2012. Entries received between June 1, 2012 5:01 PM MST and August 1, 2012 5:00 PM MST will be entered into the 2nd drawing only.

The next 30 days are critical to Ayleana. For all contributions received in her honor to International Sports Specialist, Inc. the scholarship fund will match her 25% up to $2,000.

Donations are to be made directly to International Sports Specialists, Inc. (or ISSI), and mailed along with the sponsorship form. To receive a sponsorship form through the mail, contact the school at (256)739-6682 or donate online at www.downundersports.com click sponsor payment and mark it for Ayleana Mami Track and Field.

Mami is the daughter of Anthony and Dorothea Hunter Mami of Cullman.

St. Bernard Holds Fall Open House

2011-11-09T11:30:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, November 6th, families from Alabama, Tennessee and Georgia gathered at St. Bernard Prep School in Cullman for the school’s annual Open House. The scheduled events, which began at 2:00 pm, provided information about the academic, social and athletic programs as well as offered guests the opportunity to experience the uniqueness of Alabama’s only Catholic boarding school.

“I was delighted with the number of attendees at this year’s Open House,” said Fr, Marcus Voss, President of St. Bernard Prep School. “It was truly a community effort with our current parents , students and faculty involved in welcoming the families to our campus. Our school offers many opportunities for success and I was glad to see so many people interested in becoming part of our program.”

According to Admissions Director, Dr. Donna Bryant, seven different schools were represented amongst the families in attendance. “Parents were very interested in the quality of education offered at St. Bernard Prep as well as the Christian atmosphere,” Bryant said. “Our current students are the best source of advertising we have and they certainly did good work during the Open House.”

The St. Bernard student ambassadors served as tour guides for the afternoon and shared their experience both in the day school as well as the boarding school. “For students who are having a hard time leaving their friends, or who are not quite sure about changing schools, these ambassadors shared their concerns,” Bryant said.

For families who were unable to attend the Open House, the Admissions Office offers a “Shadow Day” for students wishing to experience a day at St. Bernard. Anyone interested in visiting St. Bernard and become a “student for a day” in order to become more acquainted with the school should contact, Dr. Bryant at (256)739-6682.

All Saints Day celebrated at St. Bernard

2011-11-02T08:20:00.000-07:00

Students at St. Bernard Preparatory School joined the monks at St. Bernard Abbey in celebrating All Saints’ Day on November 1st in the Abbey Church. On All Hallows Eve, relics of martyrs and saints from the reliquary were brought to the altar and displayed during Solemn Vespers and remained there through vesper prayer sung on Tuesday.

During the Eucharistic celebration, Abbot Cletus Meagher, OSB, delivered the homily and spoke of the lives of the saints being remembered. “As Christian people, the image of Christ should be recognized in all of us. Life is a very precious gift, and we must treat it with care. As followers of Christ, it is our hope that we may be transformed into the image of Christ.”

Students were reminded that this “holy day of obligation” presents to all believers that we are members of the Communion of Saints. “Respect life and be grateful for the people in your own lives whom you see living the life of Christ,” said Abbot Cletus.

As recorded in history, the first Christians were often forced to gather in the catacombs beneath Rome, hiding their worship services from an increasingly hostile government. They would use the coffins of the martyrs as a table, an altar on which to set the elements of their celebration.

All Saints’ Day is a day to remember the roots and the people of faith who have gone before the community of believers. The relics or “remains” of saints have been regarded as objects of devotion from early in Christian history. This can be traced back to devotion to the tombs and the remains of the earliest martyrs.

St. Bernard Abbey’s altar was surrounded by small relics of saints such as St. Lawrence, Martyr; St. Bernard, Abbot; St. Elizabeth Ann Seton; St. John Bosco; St. Benedict, Abbot; St. Piux X, Pope; just to name a few. Abbot Cletus said, “These relics are symbols of their presence with us, in the Church with the Communion of Saints.”

How the relics got to St. Bernard is still somewhat of a mystery to most in the community. According to Abbot Cletus the relics at St. Bernard have been kept in the monastery since it was founded in 1891. “I’m not sure of the story behind each relic, but it would be a good guess to say most were brought back to the United States from Rome when the monks came to north Alabama.”

St. Bernard Prep host Parents Weekend

2011-11-01T12:56:00.000-07:00

St. Bernard Prep School held its annual Parents Weekend on October 28th and 29th. Parents from across the southeast made their way to the school’s campus to visit with faculty and participate in the weekend activities.

Since the first quarter grades were just recently issued, the weekend gave parents the opportunity to discuss with the teaching faculty the progress their sons and daughters were making. Many parents made positive comments regarding the daily academic reports that were available to them through the school’s academic site, Edline.

On Saturday afternoon a presentation was given regarding the school trip which the school sponsors each year which this year is planned for Costa Rica during the spring semester. Another presentation reminded the parents about the Saints Club Drawdown planned for February 4th, the Saturday before Super Bowl Sunday.

“This weekend is especially important for parents to meet with teachers and to become more acquainted with the many activities at the school.” said Fr. Joel Martin. “This weekend is one of the highlights of the fall semester. Along with all the academic discussions and activities, it’s especially nice to have the parents on campus when the autumn colors are at their peak this time of year.”

Because of the proximity to Halloween, the senior class created a haunted trail for Friday evening which caused a hub of activity. Laughing Fr. Joel said, “I think the parents were surprised to see how creative their children could be.”

The weekend concluded with the Parents’ Weekend Dinner in the Fazi-Richard Athletic Center. After a buffet meal prepared by Chef Andy Carmadella and his staff, the school’s chorus, drama department and others presented an hour-long program of entertainment.

Saint Bernard to host Open House

2011-10-24T12:37:00.000-07:00

Saint Bernard Prep School in Cullman, Alabama is hosting Open House on Sunday, November 6, and invites the public to attend. St. Bernard is a private Catholic boarding and day school for students in grades 7-12. Operated by the Benedictine monks at St. Bernard Abbey, St. Bernard is the only Catholic boarding school in Alabama and is proud to offer an honors-based curriculum where AP and dual-enrollment are options.

Located on 800 acres in Alabama’s Mountain Lake Region, St. Bernard Abbey has provided a rich tradition of education since its founding in 1891. The small student/teacher ratio of 8:1 offers one-on-one attention in the seven classes per day schedule. School begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 3:10 p.m. with a Mass scheduled every Wednesday.

Parents are encouraged to keep up to date with their child’s progress through the school’s technology program, Edline. Edline provides a student management system for teachers and parents to keep up-to-date on the educational progress of students. Parents may use Edline to gain access to course syllabi, assignments, testing information, grades, etc.

Resident students participate in a two-hour mandatory study hall from 7-9 p.m. held each Monday through Thursday. This time encourages students to develop study skills, review the day’s materials, and to complete homework assignments.

Technology is incorporated into the classrooms by the use of smart boards and document cameras. Additionally, St. Bernard Prep has two 20-station computer labs for class projects, term papers, essays, and other assignments.

All of the twenty-two instructors are certified in the areas they teach. Many hold Master Degrees in their area of certification. This enhances the quality of learning for the 157 students who consistently rank above the national average on standardized assessments.

For a residential student staying on campus for weekends, there are plenty of weekend activities planned to take a break from the books and study. They can enjoy the hiking trails on campus or join others for shopping, movies, and trips to such places as Chattanooga or Birmingham.

St. Bernard is proud of its fine arts program which include music, theatre, and art. The music department travels to venues outside of school to perform for schools and public functions. The theatre department is currently rehearsing for a production of “Into the Woods,” and the art department often wins recognition at the Regional Congressional Art Competition.

Athletic programs offered at the school are held in state-of-the-art facilities. These facilities include the Fazi-Richard Athletic Center which includes a weight room, conference room, snack bar area, volleyball, and basketball courts. The newly refurbished tennis courts are located near the fields for softball, baseball, and soccer. Just yards away are miles and miles of wooded running trails used by the cross country teams that represent the school.

The Parent’s League welcomes parents to be involved in the education of their children by assisting in various events and functions. Parents are involved in sporting events and volunteer their time to assist the school.

St. Bernard Prep is accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and is a member of the Southern Association of Boarding Schools as well as The Association of Catholic Boarding Schools of America.

“At St. Bernard, we understand how important choosing the right school is for children,” said Fr. Joel Martin, Headmaster. “We want to showcase our school and assist families in making an informed decision about St. Bernard.”

Open House will begin at 2 p.m. in the Dining Hall on Sunday, November 6. Activities, presentations and tours will begin at that time and will conclude at 4:00 p.m.

Anyone wishing to visit the school can contact the Admissions Office by calling (256)739-6682 or visit the school website at www.stbernardprep.com. Find Saint Bernard Prep on Facebook – www.facebook.com/stbernardprep.

St. Bernard Band entertains students at St. Ann’s in Decatur

2011-10-19T06:58:00.000-07:00

Playing music ranging from Journey and Lady Gaga to “When the Saints go marching in”, students at St. Ann’s School in Decatur were treated to musical selections performed by the St. Bernard Jazz Band of Cullman. After the band’s performance before the entire student body, a program about St. Bernard Prep School was presented to the eighth grade students of St. Ann’s.

Dr. Donna Bryant, Admissions Director, told students of the uniqueness of St. Bernard and invited a couple of St. Bernard Ambassadors to share their St. Bernard experiences. Along with these students, Br. Thomas Jones, O.S.B., a member of St. Bernard Abbey, shared the history of St. Bernard and its founding.

John Schneider, who graduated from St. Ann’s School and is now a senior at St. Bernard, told the students, “One of the best things about St. Bernard is that it provides opportunities to be a member of many athletic teams as well as clubs. It helps someone develop leadership skills. My favorite club is the Latin Club – we actually participate in chariot races!”

“I play almost all the sports,” Schneider continued. “Anyone who wants to participate in sports has the opportunity. It’s up to the individual and their desire and commitment.”

SBP student, Alex Ginas, encouraged students to visit the campus and discover for themselves its wholesome family environment, and experience first hand what St. Bernard has to offer.

“The campus is beautiful. I like to run the wooded trails to stay fit. The trails are really wide and beautiful and it’s not unusual to see deer,” Ginas said. “I also play the trumpet in the band and enjoy it very much because there’s no dull and boring music. The music we play is pretty amazing. We play rock, jazz, and even Lady Gaga.”

Dr. Bryant thanked the students for sharing their comments and further reminded the group that St. Bernard is more than a school. “We are unique. St. Bernard is located at Alabama’s only Benedictine Abbey – St. Bernard Abbey,” Bryant said.

“St. Bernard offers a college prep curriculum which prepares students for college, life and all the things we know are coming,” continued Bryant. “We want to help students plan their path to success. Because St. Bernard is a small school, students have so many opportunities. We understand that students like to do a lot of things, and our goal is to give them the chance to achieve.”

Dr. Bryant concluded by saying, “St. Bernard is located on 800 acres with a lake in the center. The environment lends itself not only to learning, but having a faith and spirituality that will help a person grow and mature.”

Saint Bernard Prep School provides bus service to St. Ann’s School on a daily basis. Families are offered the options of commuting daily or residing on the historical campus of St. Bernard. For more information about St. Bernard Prep, visit the SBP website at www.stbernardprep.com or facebook – www.facebook.com/stbernardprep. The campus is located at 1600 St. Bernard Drive, SE in Cullman, Alabama adjacent to the world famous Ave Maria Grotto.

St. Bernard will host Open House on Sunday, November 6. Anyone interested in attending the Open House should contact the school at (256)739-6682.

St. Bernard presents seniors with cross

2011-10-13T07:05:00.000-07:00

Twenty-two seniors at St. Bernard Prep School in Cullman were honored recently during a Senior Dedication Mass in the Abbey Church. Abbot Cletus Meagher, Chairman of the Board; Fr. Joel Martin, Headmaster; and Fr. Bede Marcy, School Chaplain concelebrated the Mass.

In his opening remarks, Abbot Cletus thanked everyone in attendance and reminded the Senior Class of their role in the school community. “We celebrate with the senior class that they may all share in that which is ours in Christ, dedicated to a divine purpose, and as they dedicate themselves to the principals and beliefs on which St. Bernard was founded.”

Abbot Cletus said, “We are celebrating with you on the feast day of Our Lady of the Rosary. As Catholics we all know the rosary is a prayer having meaning and purpose in our lives. As you grow, I encourage each of you to come to know and understand the greater sense of purpose in your own lives and its effect and place in the world.

“Purpose is something bigger than yourself. It’s being a good example to others in the image of Christ,” Abbot Cletus said.

Following the homily, the faculty and staff joined the seniors at the altar as a sign of their support and concurrence with the proposal that the seniors receive a blessing for their leadership role in the student body of St. Bernard Preparatory School.

Each senior was recognized individually and presented a Benedictine Cross which symbolizes their lives of service not only in the St. Bernard community but in whatever they do. “Wear your cross with pride as a reminder of the privilege and dignity that is yours as you share in Christ,” Abbot Cletus said.

The 2011 senior class at St. Bernard Prep accepted their leadership roles. Abbot Cletus concluded the blessing by saying to the class, “Seniors, you are the leaders at St. Bernard Prep. You are commissioned to be good examples to others by giving them a reason to want to follow you.”

At the conclusion of the service, the Senior Class enjoyed a nice Italian meal with their parents in the Brahma Room.

DRINKARD ANNOUNCES $500,000 PLANNED GIFT TO ST. BERNARD

2011-09-28T11:41:00.000-07:00

Cullman, AL Mr. Roy Drinkard announced a $500,000 planned gift to the Saint Bernard Clairvaux Society. Mr. Drinkard’s leadership gift will serve as a foundation gift for Saint Bernard’s $10 million planned giving program. The Clairvaux Society’s Planned Giving endowment goal was announced in 2010 as part of St. Bernard’s 10 Year Strategic Plan.

Mr. Drinkard announced his gift on September 26, at a luncheon honoring the benefactors of St. Bernard and the fortieth anniversary of Abbot Cletus Meagher’s and Father Marcus Voss’s ordination to the priesthood. In toasting Abbot Cletus’ and Father Marcus’s dedicated service to St. Bernard and the Cullman community, Mr. Drinkard encouraged everyone to remember St. Bernard in their wills and estate plans.

Roy Drinkard graduated from St. Bernard Prep School in 1938 and was honored as its first Distinguished Alumnus in June, 2009. A U.S. Marine veteran of World War II, and a distinguished civic and business leader for over 60 years, Mr. Drinkard’s gift reinforces his commitment to St. Bernard, Cullman, and North Alabama.

Gazebo created from cistern artifact

2011-09-28T11:38:00.000-07:00

The large green dome that once was the top covering the water purification system and hidden by large bushes outside the Dining Hall at St. Bernard now serves as the roof of a newly constructed gazebo that occupies the same space.

The gazebo is a gift given to St. Bernard in memory Oscar A. and Mildred S. Meagher and the deceased of the Meagher-Sommers families by the generosity of their children.

Abbot Cletus Meagher, OSB is pleased to see the new gazebo created from an artifact of the old cistern. “It’s pleasing to see something old given a new purpose, and this is a nice way to preserve a relic for the community and for succeeding generations of Bernardians to enjoy,” Abbot Cletus said.

After consulting with architect Jock Leonard and a structural engineer, Abbot Cletus gave the nod for construction to begin. In the Spring of 2011, the roof was lifted and the old cistern was filled with dirt. The personnel of the physical plant at St. Bernard, under the direction of the David Caples, Physical Plant Manager, began work immediately and they are primarily responsible for the construction of the project.

Apel Machine generously provided a boom to begin the work by removing the top of the cistern and replacing it as the top of the gazebo. Others assisting in the construction project were John Arndt Welding, Richard Electric, Kreps Concrete Finishers, and O.F. Richter and Sons, all of Cullman.

With a grateful heart Abbot Cletus said, “I wish to thank my family for their generosity and support of me and the many projects at St. Bernard. This project is a tribute of reverence and respect for the memory of our parents and their generation –who so generously nurtured in us the gift of our Catholic Faith.”

Benefactors celebrated at St. Bernard

2011-09-28T08:26:00.000-07:00

Benefactors of St. Bernard Abbey and Prep School packed the Abbey Church on Monday, September 26 to celebrate the 120th Anniversary of St. Bernard Abbey, in appreciation of their prayers and generous support of St. Bernard.

Archbishop Wilton Gregory, of Atlanta presented the homily titled "What’s in it for me."

In his homily, Archbishop Gregory stated, "Benefactors Day brings together many of the generous supporters of this Benedictine community who have made a substantial and valued investment in this community."

Benefactors of St. Bernard were obviously not looking for any return on their investment beyond the satisfaction of seeing the religious institution flourish as it has in the past 120 years. What began as a pastoral outreach to Germans seeking Catholics in North Alabama has become not only a monastic occasion but the repository of many friends, alumni, clerical and religious associates.

The standing room only crowd gathered in the Abbey Church were confident that their gifts, their contributions, and their prayers for this monastic community will benefit the work of Christ, and allow them to continue to influence and shape the lives of those who live, visit, and study at St. Bernard and the countless thousands of those who have paused to pray at St. Bernard.

Music for the occasion was provided by organist, Dr. Rebecca Whited, and the St. Bernard Chorus under the direction of Mr. Rodney Fike.

St. Bernard Prep School Knights of the Altar served at Mass with Michael Schartung serving as Grand Supreme Knight.

Abbot Cletus Meagher, OSB thanked Bishop Foley and Bishop Baker for being present at the celebration and Archbishop Wilton Gregory for his wonderful homily.

“On behalf of all the monks, we offer thanks to our St. Bernard community - all the administrators, educators and staff members here at St. Bernard–our benefactors, those of you who are our students-the promise of tomorrow. Thank you for entrusting your gifts, confidence and prayers within this Benedictine institution,” Abbot Cletus said.

A buffet meal prepared by Chef Andy Carmadella and his staff was served in the dining hall.

St. Bernard Abbey has been serving the needs and aspirations of their neighbors and those who journey there for a 120 years, and have done so with the abundance of their benefactors and friends. For more information on St. Bernard Abbey, Prep School, Ave Maria Grotto or St. Bernard Retreat Center call (256)739-6682 or visit www.stbernardprep.com.

St. Bernard priests celebrate 40th Anniversaries

2011-09-22T08:38:00.000-07:00

Abbot Cletus Meagher, OSB and Fr.Marcus Voss, OSB of St. Bernard Abbey will be joined by their community and guests this weekend to celebrate their 40th Anniversary of Ordination to the priesthood.

While the anniversary date was May 24, 1971, both men decided to celebrate this event in conjunction with Benefactor’s Day held on the last Monday of September each year. Msgr. Owen Campion who is editor of Our Sunday Visitor will be guest homilist at the special Mass on Sunday.

Reflecting back on his life, Abbot Cletus says the support from his family in Cleveland, TN and the monks who visited his home parish made it possible for him to continue the course of becoming a monk.

“My parents had so much influence on my life by encouraging the monastic life in our home, and making great sacrifices for us to receive a Catholic education. I was bussed from Cleveland, TN to Chattanooga everyday just to attend Catholic school,” Abbot Cletus said.

Abbot Cletus’ life at St. Bernard pre-dates his ordination. Jokingly Abbot Cletus said, “I came to St. Bernard in high school, and after taking monastic vowis in 1965 they never asked me to leave, so I stayed.”

Looking back on the day of his ordination, Abbot Cletus said, “I remember thinking, ‘Am I worthy of such a gift.’ My life in the community with the monks is a gift of Gods goodness and love. The calling to monastic life and to the priesthood have been great graces in my life.”

After serving as pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Cullman, he was elected the 9th Abbot of St. Bernard Abbey in 1995. “By the grace of God, it is my responsibility to lead the monks of St. Bernard who are striving to be faithful to the monastic life as given by St. Benedict in his Rule for Monks. Our mission is to serve those who make contact with us through our school, Ave Maria Grotto and the Retreat Center. Our desire is to receive guests as Christ, always trying to be a witness to them of God’s greatness and goodness.”

Abbot Cletus serves on various Board and Foundations. He is the Chairman of the Board of Directors for St. Bernard Preparatory School.

Fr. Marcus Voss , a native of Cullman, AL, cites the support of his family as an important factor in “trying my vocation at St. Bernard,” he said.

After he was ordained, Fr. Marcus has served his entire priestly and monastic life at St. Bernard Abbey. “Most of my priestly ministry has revolved around the work undertaken by the monks here on the campus,” said Fr. Marcus. “In my early years, I was a college registrar. Afterwards, I served as chaplain in the college and teacher. When we began work in our prep school, I was happy to take up assignments there as well as in the St. Bernard development office.”

“Ordained monks often take weekend assignments on parishes that need assistance,” said Fr. Marcus. “Over these 40 years I have helped in most of the parishes in the Birmingham diocese and have found this to be a blessing in my life.”

“I’m thankful too, “ he continued, “for the years I served as Novice Master and Formation Director for the Abbey. Working with the new members who joined our Abbey was a privilege and blessing for me.”

“I especially thank God for the years I have spent working with St. Bernard alumni,” Fr. Marcus said. “Our alumni are a great group of people and getting to know them has been a special blessing. They have been a source of help and encouragement to me over these many years and I will always be grateful to them.”

Both priests count it a real blessing to be part of the St. Bernard community. Abbot Cletus said, “Divine grace has made this possible. We are thankful to all who have crossed our paths and been part of our lives. Sometimes things are much better when we get out of the way and let God’s grace take effect.”

The 40th Anniversary celebration takes place at St. Bernard on Sunday, September 25, 2011, at 11:30 a.m. in the Abbey Church.

Burchett shares 9-11 experience with St. Bernard

2011-09-13T08:31:00.000-07:00

Lt. Col. Michael Burchett is thankful to be amongst friends and family ten years after the 9-11 tragedy. Speaking to the student body at St. Bernard recently, Burchett says he remembers too well the events that took place on that day because he was there.

“I had just relocated my office at the Pentagon two weeks prior to the attack, and thankfully so. Had I been at my desk, I would have been greeted by the nose of the plane that crashed,” Burchett said.

While many students may not recall the tragedy that killed more than 3,000 people, they were reminded of the scene and the times through a video. Fr. Joel Martin reminded all students the attack was not just on the United States, but the world.

“Citizens of 90 different countries died when the planes struck the towers. Among them were people of South Korea, Germany, the Peoples Republic of China, Taiwan, Mexico and India (St. Bernard has students from each of those countries). It was an attack on the whole world and the world was changed because of it,” Fr. Joel said.

Burchett recalled a plane clipping the world trade center three years prior to the attack, and thought no big deal. The Pentagon was under renovation and loud booming sounds were not uncommon, and the Pentagon was in the flight path of the national airport.

“No one had put together that we were under three attacks,” Burchett said.

“We started trying to account for missing people who were going to meetings, didn’t show up for work, going to doctor’s appointments, etc., and received orders to move further away because there was a fourth plane headed our way.”

For those working at the Pentagon, it was several hours later until they learned of the devastation that had taken place in New York City. The satellites were overpowered and had been shut down, as well as all mass transit from 9:30 am Tuesday morning until 2:30 p.m.

“I finally get on the subway and as we went by the national airport, there was nothing. It was a ghost town . All planes had been told to divert,” Burchett said.

While the Pentagon lost 189 people in the attack, almost 3,000 were lost in New York City.

Burchett told students, “What we have to keep in mind is that you can see people that are dead, you can see people that are maimed, or scarred. What you can’t see are people who have been affected mentally by what happened on 9-11. It’s been ten years and I still remember that day and am still bothered by it. You may not remember it , and you may be unaware of the changes in your life, but it has a tremendous impact on everyone of us.”

Burchett is the father of Will and Wren Thornton who are students enrolled at St. Bernard Middle School.

A video of the presentation can be found on the school’s facebook or youtube account by visiting the website www.stbernardprep.com.

Ethics class get visit from Federal Defenders Office in Montgomery

2011-09-09T06:42:00.000-07:00

Attorney Anne Borelli of the Federal Defenders for the Middle District of Alabama spoke with the Senior Ethics and Morality class on the topic of Capital Punishment in the state of Alabama.

Last week the senior Ethics and Morality class held debates in which they were asked to discuss the ethical issues surrounding capital punishment.

Anne Borelli is the sister of our own Br. Leo Borelli.

St. Bernard Preparatory School is greatful to Attorney Borelli and the Federal Defenders office in Montgomery.

St. Bernard students participate in Youth Leadership Program

2011-09-07T06:31:00.000-07:00

Jerrica Crawford and Caitlin Varquez have been selected to represent Saint Bernard Prep in the Cullman County Youth Leadership Program sponsored by the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce.

Each school in Cullman County provides two junior students the opportunity to participate in this a year-long program. Monthly, students participate in activities to include medicine, industry, local government, state government, education, law and other leadership programs.

Crawford is the daughter of Marty and Sherri Crawford of Cullman. Varquez is the daughter of Dr.’s Genaro and Mir Varquez of Cullman.

St. Bernard contracts with American Education Specialist

2011-09-01T08:18:00.000-07:00

More than 100 parents and students are taking advantage of a new college admissions service being offered to members of the junior and senior classes at St. Bernard Prep School. One of the primary goals of the new service is to assist students in finding the college and curriculum that matches their talents, abilities and interests.

Representatives from American Education Specialist International met on the St. Bernard campus with parents and students on Tuesday, August 30th. St. Bernard chose AESI because its consultants are experienced school leaders and advisors who are able to give schools and families the critical information they need to tailor a program for students who are seeking college admission.

Headmaster, Fr. Joel Martin said, “Technology has changed the way things are done. AESI is offering each junior and senior in our program, an opportunity to receive assistance in the whole process of their college search. Students will work one on one with representatives to prioritize what they are looking for in a college. A web management system has been put in place to help meet deadlines and to make sure students are on their way to getting things done in a timely manner."

Bill Shelnutt, the executive director of AESI, was among those who made presentations to the participants in attendance. He indicated that high grades and SAT/ACT scores are not enough to gain acceptance into the college or university of choice anymore. Colleges and universities want students that are the “best match” for their admission profiles. AESI consultants provide schools and individual families with valuable insight into a student’s strengths, interests, personality and education goals. It also assists students by developing a strategy and a roadmap for college acceptance. “We help students find their ‘best match’ school,” said Shelnutt.

Guidance Counselor Mary Mayo said it was a very informative program with a lot of good information. “If the students will put it to use, it will be of great benefit to them.”

Saint Bernard is known for its outstanding academics and scholarship awards. President Fr. Marcus Voss said, “We are offering this program to our students so they can expand their opportunities when applying to college. In making this college advisement service available, our hope is that our graduates will have even more options available to them when it comes to selecting the college of their choice.”

Faulk finishes third in season opening meet

2011-08-31T11:14:00.000-07:00

Training in brutal heat proved to be a good thing for St. Bernard Prep’s Will Faulk as he took third place during the cross country season kick off this past Saturday at the Fairview Invitational in Cullman County.

Faulk competed against 355 runners from 13 other regional schools participating in the tournament. His time of 18:04.37 was only seconds behind Pope John Paul II Catholic’s, Evan Pardi and Alex Gilliiland of Oneonta.

Coach William Calvert said Faulk was ready for the competition as he had worked hard all summer in the blazing heat. “Will has worked hard all summer and actually completed an 8-mile hill workout on Thursday, followed by sprints, which might have contributed to his weary legs on Saturday."

St. Bernard’s Aleana Mami finished fourth in the girls’ varsity race with a time of 22:21.66. Taylor Robinett of Gadsden City, Katie Sullivan of PJPII, and Arab’s Paige Townsend were the lone three runners with better times than Mami.

Mami had hoped for better than a fourth place finish, but is happy to get the first meet out of the way.

“I think it’s going to help a lot because this is the easiest trail we do the whole season,” Mami said. “It’s a good start because everyone is now rid of those beginning jitters.”

St. Bernard’s other notable girls’ finishers included Logan Ayers, 12th; Caitlyn Varquez, 29th; Lesley O’Donnell, 30th; Allison Hubert, 55th; and Shavangi Patel, 60th. Their performances helped them earn a third-place team finish.

For the Saints’ boys, other finishers included Oscar Perez, 38th; Samuel Robles, 45th; Steven Mami, 55th; Isaias Robles, 71st; Brij Rama, 81st; Sam Shin, 83rd; John Schneider, 104th; and Madison Pride, 138th. As a team, the men Saints finished eighth out of 14 squads.

St. Bernard is expected to participate in the Chickasaw Trail run at Lawrence County High School on September 10 at 9 a.m. To follow the saints, visit the website www.stbernardprep.com, or “like” St. Bernard Prep on Facebook.

2011-08-25T11:16:00.001-07:00

A new running trail currently covering almost nine miles has been cleared in the wooded areas located on the campus of St. Bernard Prep School. Roger Blaylock, a local realtor and avid runner, has been assisting the school in this project and hopes to complete a course that will extend to 13.1 miles in the future.

William Calvert, the St. Bernard cross country team’s coach, sought the help of Blaylock in creating this long course for the cross country program. “I have been a good friend of Coach William Calvert since my daughter ran track for him in high school many years ago. She wasn’t the fastest runner, but she had the drive to get her where she needed to be.” Blaylock continued. “Coach Calvert helped her get a full athletic scholarship to the University of Alabama in Huntsville, and she is now a physical therapist in Idaho.” Laughing Blaylock said, “When Coach Calvert needs my help now, it’s hard to say ‘No.’”

Calvert, who serves as the St. Bernard Middle School Principal as well as Cross Country Coach, beams with pride as he talks about the current project. “We certainly have excellent trails for cross country competition,” he said. “The trails have long sweeping curves, sharp twists and turns and includes the challenge of hilly terrain.” Calvert plans to showcase the new trails during St. Bernard Prep Oktoberfest 5K Run scheduled for October 15, 2011.

According to Blaylock, conservationist will be happy with the work being done in the woods. “The area excavated has been raked down and covered with hay to stop erosion,” Blaylock said. “We have made every effort to open drains to allow water to flow properly by installing water bars so the land will not wash away.”

A bridge was constructed at the bottom of a basin to allow for proper drainage and cleaner running. With proper care the bridge should last a minimum of ten years.
Men involved in the project were the Lewis family, E.C. Gibbs, Robert Frank, Mike Smith, Mike Jackson, Mark Aderholt, Joanne Jetton, William Calvert, and Joe Black.

The City of Cullman plans to make good use of the trail as they will be hosting the 2012 National Archery Championship Tournament at St. Bernard.

Fr. Marcus Voss is very pleased with the work provided by the volunteers. “I just can’t say enough about these volunteers who have worked so hard on this project. I am grateful for all they have done in making such a difference for our school community.”

St. Bernard will participate in their first cross country run of the season on August 27 at Fairview High School. For a complete cross country schedule visit www.stbernardprep.com

St.Bernard monk professes first vows

2011-08-25T11:06:00.000-07:00

Br. Thomas Wesley Jones, a monk at St. Bernard Abbey in Cullman, was joined by family and friends on Monday, August 15, 2011, for his Profession of First Monastic Vows.

The celebration the Mass and the vows ceremony was held in the Abbey Church with Abbot Cletus Meagher, O.S.B., serving as main celebrant. After Br. Thomas professed his vows, he sign the document on the altar of the Abbey Church with Fr. Marcus Voss, O.S.B., and Fr. Joel Martin, O.S.B., serving as official witnesses.

“It is an old and revered tradition for novices to profess their first vows a year and a day from the date of entering the monastic community as a novice,” said Abbot Cletus. “As outlined in the Rule of St. Benedict, we commit our whole life to Christ in a specific monastic community by professing our vows. We give everything away and our whole being belongs to God and to the community of brothers among whom we work and pray as we strive towards the heavenly Kingdom.”

Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Br. Thomas is the oldest of three children born to Michael and Rosemary Jones. He attended Bevill State Community College for two years before transferring to the University of North Alabama where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. He spent the next six years working for the Association of Retarded Citizens in Fayette, Alabama.

The profession of “First Monastic Vows” binds a person to live as a monk for three years. During these three years, Br. Thomas plans to work at Ave Maria Grotto where he is apprenticing with Leo Schwaiger in the repair and maintenance of the miniatures. He will also help maintain the four acre garden park that provides the setting for the miniatures created by Br. Joseph Zoettl.

Weight equipment rejuvenated at St. Bernard

2011-08-22T08:42:00.000-07:00

Shannon Mescher joined the staff of St. Bernard Prep School last year as a gym assistant to host students in the afternoons and to help with upkeep at the Fazi-Richard Athletic Center. Mescher and her family became acquainted with St. Bernard due to her husband’s job transfer in 2006 from Ohio to Cullman while he was employed with Topre, Inc.

However when his job ended two years ago, Mescher said they could not leave Cullman. “This was home. We chose St. Bernard because we are Catholic and wanted to offer a quality education to our girls, and Cullman had exactly what we wanted at Sacred Heart and Saint Bernard.”

Mescher has now taken charge of the girls volleyball team after seeing the interest expressed by the students athletes. One of her first requests was the restoration of the school’s weight equipment room so her girls could start a volleyball training program.

Martin Poe, owner of Poe’s Sporting Goods in Nashville, and an alumnus of St. Bernard, donated the original equipment to St. Bernard several years ago to assist with athlete training.

This summer the free weights were powder coated. The other weight equipment having cushioned seats were upholstered with new padding. With stainless steel polish, the Mescher family scrubbed the weight machines from top to bottom and gave new life to the heavy duty equipment.

“This equipment is state of the art,” said Mescher. “When Middle Tennessee State University held volleyball camp at St. Bernard this summer, the instructors were impressed with such a wonderful weight room and compared it to a college program,” Mescher said. “They loved it so much they would work-out while the rest of us were having lunch.”

“The volleyball team exercises on the restored equipment as do most of the student-athletes. In addition, the snack bar and social room is open daily for students to grab a bite to eat after school,” said Mescher. “The gym has become the after-hours hub of the campus.”

Br. Benedict professes final vows

2011-08-22T08:25:00.001-07:00

St. Bernard Abbey rejoices as another member of their monastery entered final vows on August 20, the feast day of St. Bernard. The Solomn Profession of Br. Benedict Dyar was held in the Abbey Church with Abbot Cletus Meagher, OSB, servings as the Main Celebrant.

Br. Benedict, a native of Opelika, AL, said, “This was the biggest day of my life. It really means the world to me and it’s like placing a seal on the vocation.”

“The Carthusian monks call it the eternal vow.” Br. Benedict continued. “This is a commitment for life and I never could have gotten to this point without my monastic confers in the monastery.”

“The ceremony for the final profession of vows has much symbolism,” said Br. Benedict. “For one, there is a full prostration at the foot of the altar just before praying the Litany of the Saints. A funeral pall is then placed over those to make final vows. The Litany is sung asking all the saints of God to come to their aid,” Br. Benedict said. “When the pall is removed the person arises symbolic of coming out of the waters of baptism. A caculla, large black garment, is placed over the outer garment worn by monks and is used as a reminder of their final profession of vows. It is worn on Sundays and feast days of the church, and symbolized that person has vowed their lives in service to the Lord.”

Remembering his early years trying to discern his vocation, Br. Benedict said, “I will never forget trying to discern my vocation. When I walked inside the Abbey Church for the first time, I felt right at home, But I was concerned about having to live in one place for the rest of my life. It wasn’t until I actually came to the monastery and started to live here that I understood the value of stability and why we do things as a community.”

Br. Benedict said, “The joys overcome the challenges of living in a community of men. God challenges each one of us to be satisfied with the portions he has received. I think this has been the right choice for me and I am very grateful.”

Br. Benedict has enrolled for the fall term at St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN, to complete his Master of Arts degree with a concentration on monastic studies.

Four St. Bernard monks continue monastic studies

2011-08-18T11:46:00.000-07:00

Photo cutline: Br. Benedict Dyar, OSB, Br. Anselm Kuehler, OSB, Br. Josemaria Balderas, OSB and Br. Bernard Denson, OSB

Abbot Cletus Meagher, OSB at St. Bernard Abbey recently announced that four monks will enroll in college and theological studies this fall to continue their monastic formation.

Br. Anselm Kuehler, OSB, and Br. Benedict Dyar, OSB, plan to matriculate at St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN while Br. Bernard Denson, OSB, and Br. Josemaria Balderas, OSB, will enroll at Benedictine College in Atchison, KS.

Abbot Cletus said, “God has blessed St. Bernard with the talents of these four men. I wish them the best as they start another chapter of their monastic life, and look forward to what their futures hold.”

Br. Anselm Kuehler has been a member of St. Bernard Abbey for the past six years. After graduating from high school in Dallas, TX, Br. Anselm spent four years in the seminary. “I left seminary school and started working on my Master’s degree,” he said. “After teaching for 20 years in Dallas, I came to Alabama and taught for two years at St. Ann’s in Decatur before accepting Fr. Joel’s invitation to teach at St. Bernard.”

While teaching was nothing new to Br. Anselm, he was so impressed with the monastic life at St. Bernard that he decided to look into the monastic life to see if it might be a good fit for him. He entered the monastery shortly thereafter.

Br. Anselm’s plans to earn his Masters of Divinity which is a four-year program covering the basic classes needed to be ordained a priest.

Br. Benedict Dyar also will enroll at St. John’s University in Minnesota just days after making final vows as a member of St. Bernard Abbey. Br. Benedict came to St. Bernard Abbey from Opelika, Alabama and has been very involved in community life. He has become known as the “bread man,” since he is one of the main bakers of breads in the Abbey Kitchen. He is also very involved with the Abbey vocation program. He works on the Abbey Farm and helps in the upkeep of the grounds around the campus. During the 2010-11 school year, he taught a history course in the high school and was the faculty moderator of the astronomy club at the Prep School.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to begin studies toward a Master of Arts degree,” Br. Benedict said. “I plan to concentrate on monastic studies while completing the requirements for ordination to the priesthood.”

Br. Josemaria Balderas, OSB came to St. Bernard two years ago from California. Growing up he describes himself as a regular person who excelled in music and athletics, especially soccer and wrestling, while in high school. At the age of 18 he felt the call to monastic life. After a few years of discernment while working and playing in bands, he decided it was a fit and entered St. Bernard Abbey.

“I still have two more years to complete my first vows and I am extremely happy to be furthering my educational studies at Benedictine College,” Br. Josemaria said.

Br. Josemaria has been attending Wallace State Community College in Hanceville, AL, where he is a member of the Dean’s list. He plans to major in philosophy with a minor in Spanish at Benedictine College.

Br. Bernard Denson, OSB will also enroll this fall at Benedictine College in Kansas. A 2009 alumnus of St. Bernard Prep School, Br. Bernard entered the monastic formation program of St. Bernard Abbey just three weeks after graduation.

“I always wanted to be a priest, and didn’t know what a monk was before arriving at St. Bernard,” Br. Bernard said. “Coming to St. Bernard in 2006 as a sophomore in high school was the best decision I ever made. The monks had such an impact on me that I knew I wanted to be a part of the monastic life.”

Br. Bernard plans to study philosophy and possibly complete a double major in English so he can return to St. Bernard and teach at St. Bernard Prep School.

St. Bernard begins new school year

2011-08-16T09:10:00.001-07:00

Residential students at St. Bernard Prep School moved into their dormitory rooms on Sunday, August 14th, in preparation for their first day of classes on Monday, August 15th, while commuting students assisted in welcoming students to the St. Bernard campus.

The Middle School program opened with an enrollment of 49 students in grades 7 and 8. William Calvert was pleased with the beginning of the school year. “It’s our first day and all of the students were on-time for class. Aside from a few students not having received their uniforms, we are in good shape.”

St. Bernard Prep School opened the school with 111 students in grades 9-12. In a general assemble, Fr. Joel Martin, Headmaster, introduced the new faculty to the students. He encouraged students to work hard, study hard, and let the St. Bernard spirit work on them. “When students attend St. Bernard we encourage you to always be honest, forth right and to do your job at St. Bernard Prep.”

Fr. Marcus Voss, President of the school, was present at the assembly echoing Fr. Joel’s remarks. Fr. Marcus said, “Many people have been where you sit, and part of my job is to keep this tradition strong, and stay connected with people just like you. When you arrive at St. Bernard, you are always a part of the family. Please keep in touch with us. We hope to provide each of you with opportunities for success in life.”

Students attending St. Bernard represent the United States, Germany, China, Korea, and Africa. For more information about St. Bernard Prep visit www.stbernardprep.com or www.facebook.com/stbernardprep

Mary Mayo selected Guidance Counselor for SBP

2011-08-12T06:18:00.000-07:00

Mary Mayo recently joined the staff of St. Bernard Preparatory School to take up the duties of guidance counselor. After twenty-five plus years of service at Wallace State Community College in Hanceville, Mayo retired and accepted the vacated guidance position at St. Bernard Prep replacing Barbara Rasplicka who is now Assistant Headmistress at the school.

Mayo brings her knowledge of planning and assessment to St. Bernard Prep. “I am really looking forward to meeting the students and working with them as well as their parents,” Mayo said. “My main focus will be getting to know each student and helping to guide them to the right curriculum to take them to the next challenging step in their lives.”

“In the high school years, everything from community service and leadership roles to great academic achievement is important,” Mayo said. “Everything counts starting in the 9th grade and continuing through the senior year. It is never too early to be preparing for college and the next level.”

“When students have an idea of what they might want to do, I will work in every way to assist them in finding the top schools in their chosen field,” Mayo continued. “I want to make sure they have the necessary curriculum, especially in the math and sciences, so they will be successful.”

Mayo received her Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts and Counseling from the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. She is married to David Mayo. They have three grown children – Ben (Jena), Will and Sarah; and one granddaughter, Avery Mayo.

Hinson joins St. Bernard faculty

2011-08-09T06:15:00.000-07:00

One motto at St. Bernard is “Old Teachers never die. They become Saints.” This couldn’t be more true as Margaret Hinson, a thirty-four year veteran joins the faculty at the Prep School. Hinson declares she was definitely born to teach, and accepted a position at the prep school teaching English to the Freshmen and Junior classes.

As a child, Hinson was a California girl and describes herself as an ex- army brat. “I have lived all over the US and Europe. My first three years of high school were completed in Germany, and I graduated my senior year in Kansas."

While attending Auburn University, she married Jim Hinson and started a family. In 1978 Hinson graduated from the University of South Alabama with a degree in Secondary English and then earned a graduate degree in Secondary English and Special Education with a concentration on working with emotionally disturbed adolescence.

She was the first student to be named Secondary Student Teacher of the Year at the University of South Alabama, and has been nominated teacher of the year three times at two different schools. In 1998, she was awarded the Parent Teacher Student Association of Mobile- Secondary Teacher of the Year for Mobile County. In 2004 she was named Wal Mart Teacher of the Year for North Mobile County in Alabama.

Having taught in mostly inner city schools, Hinson became acquainted with St. Bernard Prep as a substitute teacher last year. “St. Bernard is certainly a lot different from inner city schools,” Hinson said. “While in Mobile, I mostly taught AP Seniors, and really enjoyed the students who had the drive. At St. Bernard the students have that drive.”

Hinson has enjoyed the atmosphere at St. Bernard, but really thinks uniforms make such a difference in the classroom. “I was in Mobile when we first went to uniforms, and saw first- hand what a difference it makes in classroom performance. What I like most at St. Bernard is the special bond the students have with one another. The older students reach out to the 9th and 10th graders, and I don’t see the problems with discipline that I have seen in the public schools.”

Fr. Joel Martin, Headmaster at St. Bernard Prep, said he looks forward to Mrs. Hinson joining the faculty, and sharing her expertise. “I have watched her in the classroom as a sub, and I have to agree, she was born to teach.”

The Hinson’s moved to Cullman in 2010 and has two grown children, and five grandsons. Andy and his wife, Sarah have two boys, Joseph and James, and are anxiously awaiting the adoption of their little Chinese girl at the end of September. Their daughter, Christine is married to Doug Gordon, a commander in the Navy, who is expected to build and become the captain the Navy’s newest nuclear sub - The USS North Dakota. They have three sons, Chris, Nick, and Ben.

2011-08-09T06:10:00.000-07:00

Saint Bernard Lady Saints experienced great interest in the girl’s volleyball program. Recently Shannon Mescher accepted the position as volleyball coach, and decided it was time to take a new direction with her young team by hosting the team’s first ever volleyball clinic through professionals at Middle Tennessee State University.

Under the direction of Alicia Lemauu and Queen Nzenwa, the team worked on basic fundamental skills, as well as building a team chemistry. Lemauu has played collegiate volleyball at MTSU, and Queen Nzenwa was a University of Kentucky standout and has played volleyball professionally for Spain and Finland. She will continue her professional career this coming year in France.

Both ladies have worked at many of the high schools in Cullman County throughout the summer, but have been most impressed with the campus and facilities St. Bernard offers. “I would compare St. Bernard to any community college campus,” Lemauu said. “As a matter of fact, I am quite jealous. My old high school didn’t have this.”

Nzenwa , who attended boarding school in Nigeria, echoed her comments by stating how impressed she was to find the gym up to health codes. “The facilities are just awesome.”

Sixteen girls attended and worked on techniques and drills. “These girls were very coachable. Normally with young girls there is a level of frustration. They certainly made our job easier by absorbing the information and being very open minded,” Lemauu said.

Mescher knows the road ahead of her young team will be challenging, but is pleased with the team’s dedication. “While our teams have been working on conditioning all summer, this camp has been a great opportunity to provide our junior varsity and varsity girls with not only fundamental techniques but also a team building spirit.”

Parents were involved in the clinic making sure the girls were eating a health diet by providing well balanced meals prepared in the gymnasiums kitchen. “We had such wonderful support, and are very thankful for all of their work preparing the nutritious meals,” Mescher said.

The Lady Saints will open their first home season game against Asbury on August 18, at 4:30 p.m. in the Fazi-Richard Athletic Center. To follow the Lady Saints visit the website at www.stbernardprep.com

Alumni gather at St. Bernard

2011-07-06T06:08:00.000-07:00

Hundreds of alumni gathered at St. Bernard recently for the Annual Alumni Reunion celebrating one of the largest turnouts in recent years.

The weekend included a golf outing which consisted of 44 players. The Championship Winners of the tournament held at Chesley Oaks Golf Course were Peter Nassetta, Patrick Nassetta, Greg Clark and Matt Branch. Second place was awarded to Pete Fitzpatrick, Carl Kuchler, Tom Martin, and Harry Davies. Class Year Champ went to the Class of 1958 Joe Engel. Mixed Team Championship was awarded to John Kreger, Cheryl Kreger, Dennis Meinert and Carol Rooney., and the Prep School Champ was John Arndt.

Saturday was packed with events ranging from a town hall meeting, lunch, and a formal dinner in the Fazi-Richard Athletic Center.

The town hall meeting was presented by Fr. Marcus Voss, OSB, and Abbot Cletus Meagher. Fr. Marcus spoke of development projects underway to enhance the facilities at St. Bernard which included roofing the barns on the farm, renovations in the dining hall bathrooms, and brahma room, and future plans for the Heidrich Library Building to be utilized by the performing arts program.

Abbot Cletus addressed the town hall meeting by speaking of the Clairvaux Society which has recently been established. A leaflet about the Clairvaux Society was prepared to address the Benedictine Missions and to remember the men who had a “clear view” of what they wanted for St. Bernard, and to the men who are leading us into the next fifty years.

Lunch followed in the cafeteria and consisted of natural organic pork raised on the Abbey farm.

A dinner was served Saturday evening hosted by students and monks at St. Bernard. Guests were served a freshly tossed green salad, prime rib, steamed squash with zucchini, and garlic mashed potatoes with hot rolls and dessert.

During the dinner the Classes were recognized and had photos taken. A tribute was made to the Class of 68 Basketball Championship Team as well as to Mrs. Ruth Richards who has reached her 101st birthday. A video taken in 1971 was shown by the alumni from the Class of 1971. The evening ended with a tribute to Br. Augustine Campion, OSB, who was given a special recognition for his remarkable abilities to stay in touch with students from the college and his dedicated years of service in the ministries of St. Bernard Abbey, especially the school and Ave Maria Grotto.

Archery tournament coming to Cullman 2012-14

2011-06-27T06:20:00.000-07:00

By Rob Ketcham The Cullman Times

CULLMAN — In Cullman, it’s rather easy for everyone to get their fill of almost any and all traditional sports, such as baseball, football and basketball, among numerous others. However, the Cullman City Parks and Recreation has struck a deal to bring a lesser-known sport to the city — archery.

According to Nicole Ard, the marketing manager for Parks and Recreation, the city will host the McKenzie Archery Shooters Association Pro/Am Tour Classic from 2012-14.

She said the event, which will be held at St. Bernard Preparatory School, will bring in at least 1,000 professional and amateur archers for a 3-D target competition.

“This is as big as it gets,” said John Hunt, director of parks. “You’re talking about 1,000 to 1,200 of the world’s best archers.”

In addition, Ard said Parks and Recreation is estimating each year’s event to bring in at least a $1 million economic impact for the city.

“More than anything, this will be a great opportunity to showcase our city,” Ard said.

Hunt added, “We’re really excited about all the people it will bring into the community.”

According to the ASA website, each sanctioned tournament features competitive rounds of 20 life-like, 3-D animal targets made of foam. Binoculars are permitted in order to assist archers determine the target’s distance and aim correctly before executing their shot. The competitors are then scored using a scoring system of 14, 12, 10, eight, five or zero points per arrow.

While Hunt acknowledged Cullman already has the 2009-built Community Archery Park, he said the event will be hosted at St. Bernard because of the massive amount of space needed for such a large event.

The park that will eventually be set up at St. Bernard will include 20 lanes with 20 targets in each.

He said they plan to use the open land behind the school for a village and utilize the woods for a near-realistic hunt of 3-D animals varying in size, such as foxes, bears or deer, among others.

Hunt said, “We’re very appreciative of St. Bernard for letting us use their facilities for the duration of the tournament.”

With nearly 1,400 happy members belonging to one of the nation’s top parks and recreation departments, Ard said they are continuing to try and stay ahead of statewide and national trends by hosting the tournament and emphasizing archery’s popularity.

She said, “We’re very competitive, and we like to be the ones setting the trends.”

Hunt said people can prepare for what the larger-scale tournament will be like when the Cullman Community Archery Park plays host to the Bowhunters of Alabama State Tournament this Aug. 27 and 28.

Rob Ketcham can be reached at 256-734-2131, ext. 257.

St. Bernard Buzzing with Activity

2011-06-17T06:17:00.000-07:00

The month of June is proving to be a very busy time for the St. Bernard Community in Cullman. Debris clean-up efforts in the city are expected to continue through the month of June, but that has not hampered access to Ave Maria Grotto, St. Bernard Abbey or St. Bernard Prep School.

Fr. Joel Martin, Headmaster at St. Bernard Prep School, says registration is taking place on a daily basis for both the middle and high school. School personnel are working diligently to get new textbooks ordered and to complete the scheduling process. “We are ordering several new textbooks to include all levels of English literature, AP Chemistry, Spanish, Anatomy and Physiology,” Fr. Joel said.

Applicants are showing great interest in the program offered at St. Bernard Prep. “We are delighted with the interest shown in our middle school program,” Fr. Joel said. "It’s early June and already we have twenty-one students registered for the seventh grade and twenty-five for the eighth."

The upcoming senior class will include those students who enrolled in the St. Bernard Middle School when it opened five years ago. Fr. Joel commented, “We are excited about the possibilities of this class. They have some exceptionally gifted students.”

Renovations are currently underway at St. Bernard Dining Hall to overhaul the public restrooms located in the lobby. Plans are to eliminate the unused cloak room, expand the restroom walls and install new fixtures.

Camp St. Bernard is underway during the month of June. Sixty-six students were enrolled in the first camp. The fourth camp is currently booked, but a few openings are available in camps two and three.

Youth Basketball Camp is slated to begin June 20-23 for boys; and June 27-30 for girls.

June 23-26 St. Bernard will host the annual alumni reunion. Anyone who attended St. Bernard is welcome to attend.

Ave Maria Grotto continues to welcome visitors on a daily basis. The grotto is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information regarding Ave Maria Grotto, summer camp, basketball camp, or registration to the Middle and High School, call (256)739-6682 or visit www.stbernardprep.com

Graduation Ceremonies held at St. Bernard Prep

2011-06-10T06:31:00.000-07:00

The Alabama Pipes and Drums played “Pomp and Circumstance” which set the tone for a joyous celebration of the Class of 2011 at Saint Bernard Preparatory School in Cullman, Alabama. Twenty-four graduates, their family and friends packed the Abbey Church on Sunday, May 22, 2011, at 2 p.m. to celebrate the final chapter of their high school years.

Dr. Lewis Sumberg was the commencement speaker addressing the graduates on their service to their family, community, and country. Having published many books and teaching in classroom, Sumberg is most proud of his service to his country during World War II and demonstrated his patriotism by morphing from an academia professor with an academic hood to his proud cap identifying him as a WWII Veteran.

Traditionally at St. Bernard, honor is bestowed on distinguished alumni who have shared in the St. Bernard educational experience. Abbot Cletus Meagher and Fr. Marcus Voss honored Dr. Albert Fromhold, and Fr. Richard Martin for their outstanding contributions to society in general and for their impact of the many individual lives they have touched.

After the presentation of diplomas to each senior, Fr. Joel Martin announced this year’s graduation awards. Minji Kang received the valedictorian award while John Russell was named salutatorian. In giving the general excellence medal, the highest award given to a graduating senior, Fr. Joel stated that “the criteria for this award requires that a student must be enrolled at St. Bernard Prep for the last two full years, be dedicated to academic excellence, exercise leadership and represent the values of the school.” The 2011 General Excellence Medal was awarded JC Albritton.

Minji Kang’s farewell address spoke of the challenges facing a new high school graduate, memories created, and friendships made. In her valedictory address she said, “Graduating from high school is not the endpoint of our journey through life; only the beginning. We just finished writing one chapter of our life journey successfully, now it is time for us to write another chapter.”

“You will never know what will happen next when you go to college,” she continued. “Never be afraid of the new beginning, for Helen Lowla said, ‘You will never win, if you never begin…’ Remember when we all first started at SBP we were all afraid, but look at us now,”

She concluded her remarks with a quote from Richard Bach, "Don't be dismayed at goodbyes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or a lifetime, is certain for those who are friends."

The Class of 2011 garnered $1.8 Million dollars in scholarship offers to colleges and universities across the country.

St. Bernard student wins the 4th Congressional District Art Competition

2011-05-20T11:41:00.000-07:00

Haleigh Black, recently won “Best of Show” at the 4th Congressional District Art Competition held at Wallace State Community College in Hanceville, earning the St. Bernard Prep Senior exhibition rights at the U.S. Capitol for one year.

Haliegh’s work titled “Perpetual Use of the Mind’s Eye” was entered into the mixed media category, having used paper sculpture, watercolor, acrylic paints, chalk pastels, metal, and various other mediums. Her great- grandmother, Irene Graham, served as a model for drawing the woman pictured on the left side of the piece.

“I wanted the pieced designed to convey that we as humans should make use of our imaginations frequently throughout our entire lives,” Haleigh said.

Her picture depicts an aged woman’s profile that is looking at a clock, symbolizing the many years lived and the many things seen and remembered over time. These remain within in mind as she carries them with her in an active imagination.
“I created the woman’s profile in a way that allows the viewer to see the imagination inside her head. It is filled with creations and dreams like that of a child,” Haleigh explained.

Mrs. Mona Ivey, art instructor at SBP, received the news of Haleigh’s winnings just days after tornados ripped through Cullman County. Ivey said, “I am so proud of Haleigh and her accomplishments. Her artistic ability has been demonstrated over the last few years and I look forward to seeing what her future holds.”

Haleigh was presented with a ‘Best of Show’ trophy, $500 cash prize, and two round-trip airline tickets to Washington, D.C. for the National Exhibition Reception. In addition, her work will be exhibited in the Nations Capitol for one year.

Haleigh is the daughter of John and Sabrina Black of Cullman. After graduation from St. Bernard Prep School, she plans to build an art portfolio at Wallace State Community College with the goal of transferring to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

St. Bernard wins Gold at State Track Meet

2011-05-19T07:13:00.000-07:00

Saint Bernard Prep’s inaugural year of track and field has had its share of success during the 2011 academic year. The team finished with a very strong showing at the AHSAA Track and Field Championship held recently at Birmingham Southern College.

“We may be small, but our team put SBP on the ‘track map’ in the State of Alabama winning six gold medals, one silver, and one bronze and finishing in the top ten places in various running events over the two days,” Track Coach, William Calvert said.

Ayleana Mami, an 8th grade student, struck gold twice by claiming the State 1A Championship in both the 1600 meter run (5:49) and the 3200 meter run (12:23).
Freshman, Logan Ayers finished 10th place in the 400 meter dash with a time of 1:05 and also ran the 200 meters dash finishing in 16th place.

Overall the two girls’ team finished with 20 points, to earn 13th place overall out of the 35 schools that qualified athletes for the state meet.

Four young men won gold by competing to win the 4 X 800 Relay with a time of 9:04. Team members included Will Faulk, Sean Moriarty, John Russell, and Levi Schaefers.
Faulk took 2nd place in the 1600 meter run (4:49); 3rd place in the 3200 meter run (10:49); and 7th place in the 800 meter run (2:08).

Russell claimed 4th place in the 1600 meter run (5:12); 6th place 3200 meter run (11:49); and 8th place in the 800 meter run (2:12).

Samuel Robles placed 20th in the 300 meter hurdles.

The five boys competing at state scored 32 points to finish 9th place of the 35 teams participating.

“I couldn’t be more excited about the track program,” Calvert said. “I am proud of our students and really excited about their accomplishments and the future of our program at St. Bernard Prep."

Minor Damage at St. Bernard because of Twisters

2011-05-16T08:18:00.000-07:00

The Saint Bernard Community is counting its blessings after EF4 tornadoes ripped through Cullman County the afternoon of April 27. The twisters, which destroyed much of historic downtown Cullman, damaged roofs on the main campus and on the farm buildings of the St. Bernard campus.

“Compared to the destruction in Cullman, we have been very fortunate and blessed,” said Fr. Marcus Voss, OSB, President of St. Bernard Prep School. “We only lost some trees near the cemetery and the roof damage is something we can repair. Downtown Cullman, on the other hand, looks like a war zone. The force of the tornado’s winds plus falling oak trees destroyed many homes and businesses in town."

Many families in Cullman are counting their losses, but are thankful to be alive. One St. Bernard faculty member lost her home entirely and another suffered significant damage.

“In addition to the damage caused by the storm, the impact from the loss of revenue at Ave Maria Grotto Gift Shop has also affected St. Bernard,” said Fr. Marcus. “Highway 278 was closed for over a week and phones and internet service is still not available. Communication is strictly limited to cell phone calls and text messaging."

Fr. Marcus continued, “We are patiently waiting for AT&T to get our phone lines and internet working again. Local authorities have been re-routing traffic around St. Bernard to help crews work without interruptions.”

Ave Maria Grotto is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visit online www.stbernardprep.com or www.avemariagrotto.com.

Bloomin' Festival Successful

2011-04-25T07:41:00.000-07:00

The 27th Annual Bloomin’ Festival was held at St. Bernard Preparatory School on the weekend of April 9th and 10th with record crowds attending. More than 140 artists and craftspeople were on hand to join in the celebration of the arts. In attendance were glassblowers, chime makers, blacksmiths, and chair caners as well as artisans who presented flowering plants, jewelry, pottery, quilts, and decorative items for the home and garden.

“We were blessed with warm weather and sunny skies for the entire weekend,” said Fr. Marcus Voss, President of St. Bernard Prep School. “It was a pleasure to welcome all the people who joined us to help make this event successful.”

Joyce Nix, who is responsible for coordinating and directing the event, said she is very pleased with the weekend. “Bloomin’ Festival is a fun time for our community. There is nothing we like more at St. Bernard than hosting an event of this size to share this beautiful place with friends and family!”

More than 200 volunteers gave their time to the two-day event. Nix said, “It takes the whole school community and then some to make the weekend go well. Because of the large crowd, we had to work especially hard to get everyone on campus. Once they were here everything went smoothly.”

“The food court was very busy this year,” continued Nix. “The overwhelming crowd meant we have to purchase extra potatoes, lemons and beef at the end of the day on Saturday! The local grocers were very helpful and I think we bought every lemon in Cullman that evening. We were thankful to Brickyard Meat of Cullman for making more beef patties for us which helped meet the demand.”

On Sunday, the first prize of a 2011 Jeep Patriot was awarded to Leonard Palumbo of Birmingham, Alabama. The second prize winner of the Zoder’s Inn weekend in Gatlinburg, TN went to Bryan Daniel of Alabaster, Al. Crystal Feldner of Cullman won the Zune HD 16 GB wireless media player. The fourth prize of a Kodak easy share digital camera was given to Cheryl Cornwell of Athens, GA, and the fifth prize of an Apple IPod shuffle was won by Brian and Mary Sullivan of Homewood, Alabama.

All proceeds from the 27th Annual Bloomin’ Festival benefit the operational budget of St. Bernard Preparatory School.

Saint Bernard Prep, Ave Maria Grotto, and Bloomin’ Festival can be followed on Facebook. For more information on St Bernard Prep School visit www.stbernardprep.com.

Bloomin' Festival - April 9-10, 2011

2011-03-25T07:29:00.000-07:00

St. Bernard Prep School will host the 27th Annual Bloomin' Festival Arts and Crafts Fair on Saturday and Sunday, April 9-10 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The show features more than 150 artist and craftspeople from across the United States. Highlighting the event is the give-away of a brand new 2011 Jeep Patriot, Gatlinburg, TN vacation at Zoder's Inn; and many other prizes. Ave Maria Grotto is open the entire weekend for only $3 and will be hosting a 10% off storwide sale. Festival admission is a $5 donation to St. Bernard Prep School. Join us on Facebook. www.facebook.com/bloominfestival

Huntsville Physician speaks to St. Bernard Prep

2011-03-17T09:53:00.000-07:00

Dr. Monica Murphy, an emergency room physician at Huntsville Hospital spent her off-day at St. Bernard Preparatory School in Cullman presenting a program on the effects of alcohol and drug use.

With the assistance of her husband Kris, the duo presented a power point and question/answer session. “I’m sure all of us know someone who has or is using drugs. No family is immune to drug abuse. We all know addicts whether the substance is tobacco, alcohol or drugs,” Murphy said. “A drug makes you feel real good at first; that’s why we take them; but then you feel just okay; before long you have to have it to function; and finally you need it to survive. “

Photo images of healthy lungs and tar covered lungs were shown. “Nicotine is highly addictive and melts the lungs. Most of my emphysema patients look like a fish out of water. The ones who don’t die of a lack of oxygen die of heart failure. “

Murphy stressed that though alcohol may be a legal drug, it is very addictive. “The media makes it look fun and very hard to resist, but even the first drink can turn on the alcohol gene that leads to alcoholism.”

Noting Cullman County has its share of drugs available to the public, naming marijuana, meth, cocaine, heroine, crack and black magic, and others, Murphy explained, “A lot of people think marijuana is a soft drug, straight from nature and no big deal. However it is the most common reason people go into drug rehab; and it is known as the gateway drug - if you try it, you’ll be inclined to try something else later.”

These drugs alter the brain’s chemistry and can cause chronic anxiety and depression, and they may activate schizophrenia. Murphy left nothing to the imagination describing the typical drug users. “People come into the ER trying to pick bugs out of the air and from their skin; they hear voices inside their head telling them to kill themselves.”

After viewing side by side photo images of meth addicts, students were disgusted by the aged appearance of those who had been on drugs for just a few years. “Meth users are not hard to detect. This junk literally melts the enamel off their teeth.” Crystal meth - a combination of Sudafed, household chemicals, lye, and other substances, is highly deadly, and highly addictive. “Meth destroys your body, mind, and soul - and the damage is permanent.”

Emergency rooms treat alcoholics and drug users daily. Some are highly educated, but have lost everything. They live on the streets in cardboard boxes, under bridges, and their lives are consumed by attempting to get enough alcohol to survive the day. “We see this everyday. Alcohol kills the liver, causes vomiting and pooping blood, and surgically nothing can be done.”

Murphy demonstrated how to say no to friends, and then shared her personal high school story with the students . “While in the 11th grade, my best friend started smoking pot, and it ended our friendship. Friends are people you trust, but this is a decision you have to make. The decision has to come from within.”

“Just say “no” in your own words – if you have already tried drugs, say no more,“ stressed Murphy.

At the conclusion of the presentation, Murphy said, “I care about this community. Your school matters to me. My children will go here one day, and I don’t want you offering my children drugs; and I certainly don’t want your parents to show up in my ER and have to say ‘I am so sorry; we did everything we could. Your child is dead’.”

Fr. Joel Martin, headmaster at St. Bernard Prep, expressed his appreciation to Kris and Dr. Murphy. He said he was very pleased with the down to earth presentation and student interaction: “Dr. Murphy was certainly powerful and to the point. She did not simply say, ‘Don’t take drugs;’ she showed us clearly and dramatically why we should not. Her message was well received by the students and faculty.”

Mardi Gras at St. Bernard

2011-03-09T12:05:00.000-08:00

Students at St. Bernard Prep School in Cullman were reminded of the meaning and derivation of Mardi Gras Tuesday, at a student assembly.

The Day before Ash Wednesday is called “Fat Tuesday” or Mardi Gras because, as Fr. Joel Martin, principal at the school said, “Fat Tuesday is the last day to enjoy some merriment before the austere season of Lent begins.”

This day is also referred to as “Shrove Tuesday” taken from the word “to shrive” meaning “to have sins removed and forgiven.”

Fr Joel Martin told students that on Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) the palms from last year’s Palm Sunday are burned; from them come the ashes to be used the next day, traditionally called “Ash Wednesday.” These palms were burned in a small container in front of the Classroom Building during the school’s student assembly on Tuesday.

“Now the “ALLELUIA” will be retired,” Fr. Joel said. He explained the Hebrew word “Alleluia,” means “Praise toThe Lord,” and is an expression of joy that is not used during the penitential season of Lent. It is “buried” on Mardi Gras and is
“resurrected” at Easter.

The students’ Mardi Gras celebration was concluded with a performance by the St. Bernard Saints Jazz Ensemble.

Saint Bernard thriving

2011-03-07T08:23:00.000-08:00

Officials at St. Bernard Prep were excited about the interest and outstanding participation at the School’s recent Spring Open House. Admissions Director, Donna Bryant welcomed the twenty families represented and guaranteed everyone St. Bernard would not be affected by proration. Bryant said, “We will not be affected by proration, and will continue to offer music, drama and the arts as well as our athletic and college prep programs.”

St. Bernard President, Fr. Marcus Voss guaranteed each student admitted to the school would receive a well rounded education and be encouraged to get involved in the many activities offered at the school. He said, “I will never forget my dad dropping me off at the Administration Building and telling me to have a good day. I was a town boy and didn’t know what to think of it. But, here I am. I loved St. Bernard so much, I decided to stay.”

St. Bernard holds a special place in the lives of its graduates. Fr. Joel Martin, Headmaster, said he is honored to be a part of student’s weddings, baptisms, etc. With a big grin, Fr. Joel said, “We have seen many couples graduate, attend college, and come back to St. Bernard to be married in the Abbey Church.”

Families were treated to a campus tour of the Abbey Church, Fazi-Richard Athletic Center, dorms and school buildings. While visiting Founders Hall, everyone enjoyed watching the high school jazz band perform.

St. Bernard is a great alternative to crowded classrooms, and offers an average 8:1 student teacher ratio. The Class of 2010 was offered more than 3.6 million dollars in scholarship offers and accepted to 78 colleges and universities.

Scholarships and financial aid are available to those who qualify. Anyone interested in more information should contact the Admissions Office at (256)739-6682 or visit www.stbernardprep.com.

2011-03-03T09:47:00.000-08:00

Saint Bernard Middle School congratulates the following students for their achievements on the A and A/B Honor Roll for the First Semester of 2010-11:

A Honor Roll ( All A’s)

Alex Anderson, Bremen
Abigail Bennett, Vinemont
Megan Butler, Cullman
Aimme Cortes, Vinemont
Anna Gongre, Cullman
Jacob Grey, Cullman
Gavin Harris, Crane Hill
Allison Hubert, McMinnville, TN
Ayleana Mami, Cullman
Braden McGraw, Cullman
Madison McMahon, Hayden
Lesley O’Donnell, Hayden
Candace Rosenhoover, Huntsville
Dean Smith, Cullman
Jacob Sweeney, Arab
Zana Wilson, Cullman
Christopher Woods, Warrior

B Honor Roll ( All A’s or B’s)

Theresa Gamble. Cullman
Sandra Garcia, Cullman
Hayden Harris, Hanceville
Ann Huynh, Cullman
Jillian Ivey, Hanceville
Jacob Lewis, Cullman
Steven Mami, Cullman
Abigail Mescher, Cullman
Alli Messick, Cullman
Shivangi Patel, Cullman
William Sciaroni, Decatur
Miranda “Wren” Thornton, Cullman
Cameron Tinney, Hanceville
Sally Yang, Korea

St. Bernard First Semester 2010-11

2011-03-03T09:27:00.001-08:00

St. Bernard Prep congratulates the following students who achieve the status of Honor orMerit Roll for First Semester 2010-11:

Honor Roll
Logan Ayers, Cullman
Savannah Beaver, Cullman
Mackenzie Bockhold, Cullman
Michayla Brown, Arab
Goun Choi, Korea
Katherine Gamble, Cullman
Minji Kang, Korea
Jiae Park, Korea
So Hyun Park, Korea
Gabriel Paulter, Birmingham

Merit Roll
JC Albritton, Lithonia, GA
Bryce Allen, Hanceville
Haley Black, Cullman
Christi Caples, Cullman
Aymee Chauvin, Conway, AR
James Chung, Korea
Jerrica Crawford, Cullman
Nathan Denson, Gadsden
Ria Foye, Albertville
Mary Katherine Gray, Cullman
Anna Keefe, Cullman
Sean MacFarlane, Decatur
Michael Mendoca, Hanceville
Jacob Mynatt, Hartselle
Jiwon Oh, Korea
Oscar Perez, Cullman
Sadie Pudles, Cullman
Amberly Robinson, Hanceville
John Russell, Davenport, IA
Michael Schartung, Decatur
John Schneider, Decatur
Sam Shin, Korea
Madeline Schweers, Madison
Caitlin Varquez, Cullman
Zoie Wilson, Cullman
Andy Woods, Warrior

Renovations continue at St. Bernard

2011-03-02T11:22:00.000-08:00

Students recently witnessed the beginning of a new project at St. Bernard. Abbot Cletus stood in their midst while workers lifted the big green top from the old water filtering cistern. Plans are to build a gazebo where the filtering system had been located for probably more than 80-90 years.

St. Bernard students celebrate Mass at Ave Maria Grotto

2011-02-25T11:56:00.000-08:00

Warm temperatures provided a delightful outing recently at Ave Maria Grotto as students at St. Bernard Preparatory School held their weekly Mass at the main grotto altar on Feb. 23, the feast of St. Polycarp. Students stood quietly before the altar in the courtyard as the crows circled the skies delivering their own cawing messages in the serene setting. Only the nearby stream of Eight Mile Creek could be heard making its way to the Warrior River.

One of Alabama’s most notable landmarks, Ave Maria Grotto was dedicated in May of 1934. An old stone quarry, it was landscaped to hold and display the work of Br. Joseph Zoetl, a monk of St. Bernard Abbey who arrived at the Cullman monastery from his native Bavaria in 1892 at the age of 13. Measuring twenty-seven feet high at the apex, the main grotto (cave) shrine is made of stone from the quarry where it stands, reinforced concrete, and marble-studded stalactites. Made of Carrara marble, statues of Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Saint Benedict and Saint Scholastica adorn the altar where Mass was celebrated. Some 40 feet away stands a bronze life-size statue of Br. Joseph facing the altar and helping all to be aware of that little monk who figures so large in St. Bernard history.

Father Bede Marcy, School Chaplain, said that to his knowledge this was the first time Mass had been held in the Grotto gardens since the Funeral Mass of Br. Joseph Zoetl was offered there in October of 1961, almost fifty years ago.

Fr. Bede delivered the homily reminding students that being outside on the grounds of Ave Maria Grotto was probably very similar to what happened in ancient times when Saint Polycarp gave his life for the privilege of “turning to God,” united in prayer and in freedom, safety and peace. Saint Polycarp would not deny who Christ was, and he lived to celebrate at the altar of that truth. “Truth is one. God is one, and all power and healing comes from God,” Fr. Bede said.

The occasion was a momentous one: St. Bernard students worshiping God in a place so dear to St. Bernard Abbey, remembering the humble Br. Joseph whose life and work has shaped the Abbey and affected the thousands who have visited Ave Maria Grotto.

St. Bernard Middle School completes Catholic Schools Week

2011-02-21T06:26:00.000-08:00

St. Bernard Middle School students completed Catholic School’s Week by participating in a number of contest to include a Spelling Bee, Religion Bee, Social Studies Bee, and Math Bee. Pictured are the winners of each. Candace Rosenhoover , Huntsville– Spelling; Lesley O’Donnell , Hayden– Religion and Science; Kimi Garcia, Cullman – Social Studies; and Will Sciaroni, Decatur – Math. Mr. William Calvert, SBP Middle School principal presented the awards.

SBP travels to Washington, DC

2011-02-14T09:30:00.000-08:00

On Friday, January 21st, twenty-eight St. Bernard Preparatory School students left their campus for Washington, D.C. for the annual March for Life that was held on Monday, January 24. The St. Bernard group was accompanied by Headmaster Fr. Joel Martin and Chaplain Fr. Bede Marcy and three St. Bernard parents. They joined with representatives from various parishes on the over night trek to D.C. traveling together in three buses. Said Headmaster Fr. Joel, “I was overwhelmed with our students’ response to the opportunity offered by the Diocese of Birmingham. Roughly one fourth of our Upper School, grades 9-12, attended the event; that’s outstanding.”

Leaving at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, the group arrived at the Capitol in D.C. at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday. The full weekend included a tour of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception adjacent to Catholic University, Mass at the Shrine celebrated by Bishop Baker for all those gathered from the Diocese of Birmingham, a day at the Smithsonian and other museums, a night tour of the monuments, etc.

Finally Monday arrived and all gathered at the Verizon Center in downtown Washington joining thousands of teenagers from around the country for a youth rally, followed by Mass celebrated by Cardinal Donald Weurl, Archbishop of Washington, Cardinal George of Chicago, many other bishops and hundreds of concelebrating priests, as well as many deacons and hundreds of seminarians. Before Mass, several thousand teens celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and all present prayed the Rosary. “The atmosphere was electric,” said one parent.

Following the rally, St. Bernard students united with the overwhelming crowd of thousands that marched from the Mall past the Capitol to the Supreme Court Building. Said one student, “We are here to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves, the most defenseless among us; they are being put to death, and if that doesn’t change our country will die.”

The March was both serious and joyful. It was urgent about the cause, and filled with the enthusiasm of an army of American teenagers born after the legalization of abortion in their country.

After the March, all boarded the three buses and made the overnight trip home to Alabama, arriving Tuesday morning exhausted, but enthused by the experience of joining so many in defending human life.

St. Bernard Students attending: J. C. Albritton, Shelby Bailey, Jade Bradford, Michayla Brown, Ben Chiodo, Nathan Cline, Audrey Cofield, Nathan Denson, Nate Durkee, Ria Foye, Anna Keefe, Danielle Klopfer, Rita Lappert, Taylor Martin, Elizabeth McAfee, Mark McDaniel, Sean Moriarty, Andrea Naranjo, James Nix, John Russell, Michael Schartung, John Schneider, Madeline Schweers, Austin Steele, Caitlin Varquez, Michael Justin Varquez, Anthony Weaver, Halle Webb.

Drawdown held at St. Bernard

2011-02-10T08:43:00.000-08:00

The annual St. Bernard Prep School drawdown was held on Saturday, February 5, 2011 in the St. Bernard Fazi-Richard Athletic Center with over 500 attending. The drawdown is sponsored by the Saints Club, a group composed primarily of the parents of currently enrolled St. Bernard students.

The evening began with a silent auction of prizes ranging from artistic items to a weekend at a resort on the Gulf of Mexico. After dinner was served, the drawdown began. The culmination of the evening was the drawing of the last five tickets which designated this year’s winners.

The grand prize of $10,000 was awarded to Col. (ret) and Mrs. John Larkins of Gadsden, AL. Other prizes included $1000 given to the Knights of Columbus of Cullman, AL, $750 awarded to Mr. and Mrs. John Tekulve of Cullman, AL, $500 presented to Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Palmer of Decatur, AL, and $250 given to Gerard Chomskis of Cullman, AL.

Raymond Webb, President of SBP Booster Club was very pleased with the outcome of the evening. “Given the state of the economy we were very concerned, but St. Bernard alumni, parents, and friends in the community once again rallied together to make this the best Drawdown Dinner to date.”

The proceeds from the event support the athletic programs of the school.

St. Bernard students enjoy snow

2011-01-12T13:13:00.000-08:00

Resident students at St. Bernard Prep started the week off with a huge snow in Cullman, which has hampered all classroom activity. Headmaster, Fr. Joel Martin said, sledding the hills and chunking snowballs is still ongoing, but the snowman population has stabilized.

Exam Schedule for St. Bernard Prep

2010-12-16T07:36:00.000-08:00

Students – Exam Schedule – Dec. 16-18, 2010
Breakfast for boarders at 8:15 a.m. each day.

DAY DATE TIME PERIOD
Thurs. Dec. 16 9:00-10:30 2
Break
11:00-12:30 8
12:30-12:45 Lunch
1:30-3:00 7

Fri. Dec. 17 9:00-10:30 3
Break
11:00-12:30 4
12:30-12:45 Lunch
1:30-3:00 6

Sat. Dec. 18 9:00-10:30 1
Break
12:30-12:45 Lunch/Dismiss

EXAM REGS:
• Exams will be comprehensive for the entire semester just completed.
• Exam days are “class days.” Each class will meet at its designated time, including study halls. Absences will be non-excused.
• Remain in your classroom until the entire examination period is over (1 ½ hours) and you are dismissed by your instructor.
• Quiet in the school building (hallways, classrooms, library, etc.) at all times Thurs. - Sat., until all exams are completed on Saturday.
• Library will be open for study time before and after exams as announced.
• Dining Hall will be open during breakfast, lunch and break (10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.) periods, Thursday - Saturday.
• Boarding students will have town privileges as announced.
• Any exception to the above regulations must be approved by the Headmaster’s office.

St. Bernard students taught CPR

2010-12-13T08:31:00.000-08:00

St. Bernard Health Instructor, Ruth Anne Knight, annually teaches all students in her health classes the fundamentals of cardiopulmonary resuscitation in a course study through the American Heart Association.

CPR is a combination of rescue breathing and chest compressions. If someone isn't breathing or circulating blood adequately, CPR can restore circulation of oxygen-rich blood to the brain. Without oxygen, permanent brain damage or death can occur in less than 8 minutes.

The AHA's basic life support course covers adult, child, and infant CPR and choking. Students practice the techniques on mannequins and can ask questions and get individualized instruction. The final test for the course is a combination of demonstrating CPR skills and taking a written test.

Students learn CPR on adults, children and babies. Knight said the course is designed so students learn the issues involved with knowing when it is safe to approach someone who needs help and how to quickly evaluate whether the person is responsive.

“We teach the ABC’s of CPR,” Knight commented. “Students check the airways, breathing and circulation, and make a determination about what procedure to apply next.”

Knight along with Mrs. Carolyn Peinhardt Johnson, both of whom are basic life support instructors with the American Heart Association, evaluate students on proper techniques during the exams.

Because CPR is a skill that must be practiced, it's wise to repeat the course at least every 2 years to maintain skills. Doing so also allows the opportunity to learn about any new advances or discoveries in CPR techniques.

“We never know when we can help someone who is choking or in need of assistance. Providing this service to our students is something they will remember the rest of their lives,” Knight said. “Soon we will be adding Hands-only CPR to our curriculum. This technique is simpler and easier to remember and removes a big barrier for people skittish about the mouth-to-mouth breathing.”

St. Bernard to present The Festival of Nine Carols and Lessons

2010-12-06T10:02:00.000-08:00

St. Bernard Prep School will present the Festival of Nine Carols and Lessons on December 12 at 6:30 p.m. in the Abbey Church. The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols though Protestant in origin, is akin to the ancient office (service) of Matins. A central part of Matins is a number of lessons or readings from Holy Scripture and the Fathers of the Church, each followed by a response to the reading, and all surrounded by psalms and other scriptural songs.

Dr. Rebecca Whited, SBP Director of Choral Music said, “It is an act of worship rather than a concert, dating back to 1918 when it was first held on Christmas Eve in the Chapel of King’s College at Cambridge University in England.” Since that time the tradition has been adapted in many churches throughout the world. While the music changes, the lessons remain the same.

The main theme is the development of the loving purposes of God …’ seen ‘through the windows and words of the Bible. A representative from each class and leaders of the St. Bernard community will present the lessons, while Dr. Whited and the choral music department provide the music and accompaniment.

The public is invited to attend.

SBP Middle School sponsors four families at Thanksgiving

2010-11-30T06:37:00.000-08:00

Middle School students at St. Bernard Preparatory School contributed to the St. Vincent DePaul organization at Sacred Heart Church to make Thanksgiving special for four families in the local community. Originally each class was to adopt one family, but the overwhelming support made it possible for the two combined classes to support four families for Thanksgiving Dinner.

Ms. Martha Ann Warnke, Religion instructor, organized a grocery list and asked for items to be contributed for each box. The grocery list consisted of a turkey, stuffing mix, green beans, sweet peas, sweet corn, evaporated milk, canned pumpkin, deep dish pie shells, jello pie filling, graham cracker pie shells, instant mashed potatoes, canned sweet potatoes, spiced apple rings, marshmallows, dinner rolls, sugar, imitation vanilla, cake mix, canned frosting, turkey roasting pan, cake baking pans, roasting bag for turkey, thanksgiving table cloth, plates, napkins, cups and cutlery.

Students selected the items to contribute, and brought it in two-fold. Smiling Ms. Warnke said, “We are so happy with the outpouring support of this project. Cash contributions allowed for each box to be stuffed not only with a turkey, but a ham too.”

St. Bernard Prep encourages students to participate in community service projects. Principal, William Calvert said the teachers are to be commended for their participation in this project as well. Calvert commented, “They were our best leaders in reminding students of the blessings we enjoy daily.”

Thanksgiving Service held at St. Bernard

2010-11-22T12:32:00.000-08:00

Students at St. Bernard Prep School celebrated Mass recently during the school’s Annual Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service. Traditionally each year St. Bernard students and staff are given the opportunity to invite clergy representing their various congregations and religious traditions.

Fourteen ministers from the area took part in the service composed of prayers, psalms, scripture readings and hymns, and students offer thanks and petitions to God as they lay symbols of their lives before the altar.

The Rev. Michael Deering, St. Elizabeth Anne Seton Church, Gardendale; St. Henry’s Church, Warrior presented the sermon . Father Deering’s homily reminded students of the importance of giving thanks.
“In today’s world an act of kindness leads to gratitude which earns respect,” Deering said. “Take time to give thanks for everything and especially the farmers who planted the potatoes for your thanksgiving dinner, the truck drivers for their prompt delivery to your grocery store, and especially to the host preparing the dinner.”

The St. Bernard Choral Ensemble under the direction of Dr. Rebecca Whited took part in the service.

The service was followed by a dinner for all guests, students, faculty and staff. The guest clergymen were served by the students.

St. Bernard Prep Headmaster, Fr. Joel Martin, O.S.B. said, “This is an opportunity for all of us in the school community to give thanks to God for the many gifts we have received, and to do so along with those pastors, ministers and priests who are so important in the lives of our students. These men and women are very busy, so we are all impressed with and grateful for their taking time to join us.”

SBP Open House successful

2010-11-16T08:17:00.000-08:00

Officials for St. Bernard Preparatory School were very pleased at the level of interest shown in the middle and high school program operated by the Benedictine monks at St. Bernard Abbey in Cullman. More than 50 guests attended the two hour Open House to gather more information about the curriculum and programs offered.

“Interest is growing in our Middle School on the local level,” said admissions director, Dr. Donna Bryant. Students from the surrounding area were looking at joining the middle school program at semester break as well as next year. “Next year is predicted to be the worst funding year for our public school systems in the state of Alabama, so parents are beginning to explore the benefits of private education,” Bryant added.

St. Bernard offers a college preparatory curriculum in a Christian environment. Annually St. Bernard students perform well above the national average on the ACT. Small classes, scholarship offers, and a safe environment are some of the appealing attributes of the school.

St. Bernard boasts newly renovated dormitories, a state of the art athletic complex, and technology enhancements in the classroom. Headmaster, Fr. Joel Martin said he was extremely pleased with the interest shown. “We always enjoy having visitors explore the many opportunities offered at St. Bernard.”

Students who are interested in learning more about the day to day campus life may schedule a shadow visit. Shadow visits are arranged by contacting the Admissions Officer, Dr. Donna Bryant at (256)739-6682 or email admissions@stbernardprep.com.

St. Bernard Prep is a day and boarding school for students in grades 7-12. For more information contact the school at (256)739-6682 or visit www.stbernardprep.com.

Cullman Police Chief instructs DARE Program

2010-10-20T11:50:00.000-07:00

St. Bernard Prep Middle School wishes to thank Cullman Police Chief Kenny Culpepper for spending time in the classroom teaching the DARE Program.

Poetry Out Loud Winners

2010-10-18T08:49:00.001-07:00

St. Bernard Prep School held their annual Poetry Out Loud competition on Friday, October 15 at the school. Winners of the local competition were: Third place, Maddie Schweers; Second place, Caitlin Varquez, and First Place, Sean Moriarty. These students will compete in Huntsville at the Regional competition later in the year.

Oktoberfest 5K Trail Run- October 16 @ St. Bernard Prep

2010-09-24T09:07:00.000-07:00

St. Bernard Prep School will host an Oktoberfest 5k trail run on Saturday, October 16at 7:30 a.m. The school invites all to celebrate autumn with a morning run through the beautiful St. Bernard Abbey Treasure Forest. The event will precede the Oktoberfest High School Cross Country Meet beginning at 9 a.m.

An entry fee of $15 will entitle participants to receive an Oktoberfest 5K t-shirt while supplies last. Pre-registration is highly encouraged. Awards will be presented to the top 15 finishers; top three male and females, and the top male and female master winners. No duplication of awards will be granted.

Awards are being provided by First Place Athletics.

Download the waiver at http://www.stbernardprep.com/files/content/Oktoberfest_5K_Trail_Run.pdf and mail payment to:

William Calvert
St. Bernard Prep School
1600 St. Bernard Drive, SE
Cullman, AL 35055

All checks should be made payable to St. Bernard Cross Country.

Cross Country Results from Trail of Champions

2010-09-22T07:45:00.000-07:00

Scottsboro Invitational Cross Country Meet
September 18, 2010
Scottsboro High School Cross Country “Trail of Champions”

St. Bernard Prep Varsity Boys Results - The boys finished 3rd in the 1A-3A Division behind (2A)Pleasant Valley and defending state 3A champions Randolph. They had the 12th best score in the 28 team field consisting of mainly 4A, 5A and 6A schools including perennial powers like Scottsboro, Lawrence Co., Cullman, Grissom and Bob Jones. Team scores in 1A-3A 1. Randolph 15 (perfect score) 2. Pleasant Valley 62 3. SBP 91 4. Westminster Christian 99 5. Madison Academy 117 6. Pisgah 160 7. Faith Christian 196

Individual Results – Will Faulk 6th place runner in 1A-3A with at time of 18:40 lead the Saints. John Russell was 2nd for the team at 18th place and a personal record of 20:20. Other scorers were Levi Schaefers 20th place, Giovanni Cortes 23rd and Michael Justin Varquez 24th.

Varsity Girls - SBP had only three runners competing in the varsity girls race but 8th grader Ayleana Mami really had a great performance finishing 2nd in the 1A-3A division. Her time of 21:31 was a personal record by 40 seconds.

Junior varsity boys- SBP finished 8th out of 12 teams in the JV division. Freshman Oscar Perez was first for the JV team finishing in 8th place over the 2.1 mile course with a time of 12:55. 7th grader Steven Mami was 2nd for the team in 50th place with a time of 15:01. Also scoring for the team were Jacob Grey , Gavin Harris and Hayden Harris (all 7th graders.)

Coach Calvert’s comments“ We were able to see how we stacked up against some tough competition in a big meet. We had lots of personal records over the course on a hot day. The kids are training hard and its beginning to show up in the races. The boys’ average time of 20:20 is a big improvement from our first two meets and that was without Oscar Perez who had a great race in the JV division. Ayleana’s 40 second PR was really amazing considering how hard we worked last week and the hot day. I am looking forward to seeing what they can do down the road in October and hopefully at the state meet on November 13th.

Next meet for the Saints is the Kudzu Hills Invite on the Campus of Cold Springs High School this Saturday.

Don Laney publishes “Charley’s Boys – St. Bernard College in the Sixties”

2010-09-17T09:02:00.001-07:00

Many stories have circulated about Coach Charles Richard during the many decades when he was the mentor of athletics at St. Bernard. Don Laney, a member of the basketball team who played for Coach Richard in the late 1960s, has recently published a book entitled “Charley’s Boys – St. Bernard College in the Sixties.” In it Laney tells the story of the four years he was enrolled in St. Bernard College with a special emphasis on the basketball program and the guidance provided by Coach Richard for the players under his charge.

“I decided to write this book,” said Laney, “when I told someone that I graduated from St. Bernard College. They had never heard of the place. It was then that I decided to write down my memories of the years I spent there and how important they were to me and others. I wanted to share my experience of this great place and tell others what an inspiration it continues to be for me.”

Laney said, “When writing the book, I was in contact with several of my teammates. Every time we talked, we always came back to particular memories about Coach Charlie. The stories were so good, I felt the need to write them down and publish them for others to read.”

Laney, a 1970 graduate of St. Bernard College, played for Coach Charlie and was a member of the 1968 team that won the ACC basketball championship over Jacksonville State College. “We played high scoring games,” he said. “It was nothing to run a score up in the triple digits. We ran plays designed by Coach Charlie who had a lot of talented players who could play the game and score.”

Along with the basketball narrative, Laney’s book tells the story of St. Bernard in the late 1960s. He speaks of campus activities, the professors and priests who formed the faculty as well as the students who were enrolled in the college. “Coach Richard was a part of it all,” said Laney, “and his influence could be seen not only in the athletic program but across the campus.”

Laney is a retired school teacher from the Marshall County School System where he served as a coach and instructor for more than 30 years.

St. Bernard College closed in 1979. In 1984 St. Bernard reopened its Prep School program and today serves students in grades 7-12. In 2011 St. Bernard will celebrate its 120th year of providing an education for the students who have enrolled in its schools.

“Charley’s Boys: St. Bernard College in the Sixties” can be purchased online at Authorhouse.com, or from the Ave Maria Grotto bookstore (256-734-4110) or from the author at dlaney1948@gmail.com.

A book signing will be held at Ave Maria Grotto on Saturday, November 6 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Knight named Athletic Director at St. Bernard Prep

2010-09-10T09:26:00.001-07:00

Fr. Joel Martin, OSB, Headmaster at St. Bernard Prep recently named Wade Knight as the new Athletic Director at St. Bernard Prep replacing James Tolbert who ended his reign at the school two weeks ago. Knight, a 38 year veteran teacher and coach, has been employed by the school for the past two years as a physical education instructor. In addition to his classroom duties and Athletic Director duties, he will serve as varsity basketball and baseball coach.

“This is what I love to do,” Knight said smiling. “I have spent the majority of my life in the classroom and coaching. I have tried other things – I sold used cars, and I sold new cars, and I even drove Bluebird buses all over the country, but I am happy to be back in the school setting.”

Father Joel comments, “God takes care of St. Bernard, and Coach Knight’s presence here at this time is proof of that. We’re fortunate to have him because of his fine reputation, dedication to students, positive approach, and long-standing family connection to St. Bernard.”

Knight has worked a number of years in the County system – Fairview and Harmony, but spent the majority of his time at Good Hope High School. His number one goal for St. Bernard is to work on the fundamentals of each sport. “We will work on the fundamentals of the game, and form a habit of playing hard all the time,” Knight added.

Knight said he is looking forward to working with the Saints. “These are some of the best kids in the world. Once we teach the fundamentals, they will learn to play with character and class. Our number one goal is to get better every day we practice, and to get better every game we play – then eventually we will win a few games,” chuckled Knight.

St. Bernard offers girls volleyball, basketball, softball, tennis, cross country/track, and soccer. Boys are offered cross country/track, basketball, soccer, tennis, baseball, and wrestling.

Knight continues a family tradition at St. Bernard Prep. He is the son-in-law of the renowned Coach Charlie Richards whose name is honored in Alabama athletics. He is married to Ruth Anne Knight, who instructs at St. Bernard; and has two sons, Kurt (Tanya) Knight and Kevin; and one grandson, Jake.

Dyron's Lowcountry sponsors dinner for St. Bernard

2010-09-08T08:53:00.000-07:00

Birmingham, AL SBP Board Member, Dyron Powell (SBP '91) is sponsoring a benefit dinner for St. Bernard Prep School on Monday, September 20, at his Birmingham restaurant, Dyron's Lowcountry. Happy hour begins at 6 p.m. with the buffet dinner beginning at 7 p.m. One hundred tickets are available for $50 per person.

The menu consists of a mixed green salad; herb crusted pork roast, southern fried catfish, and wood grilled chicken served with hoppin john (low country black-eyed peas and rice), creamed corn, roasted potatoes, green bean casserole, cornbread and rolls with white chocolate bread pudding. Wine and drinks included.

For reservations call (205)834-8257. Ask for the St. Bernard Benefit... - Sept. 20. All proceeds benefit Saint Bernard Preparatory School.

Coach Tolbert to Move from St. Bernard

2010-08-30T07:54:00.001-07:00

St. Bernard Prep School confirmed that Coach James Tolbert will be moving from the private school in order to pursue other career opportunities. The move comes in the wake of the school’s decision to discontinue its football program.

“When I asked Coach Tolbert to join our staff, we were hoping to improve the fortunes of our football program,” said Fr. Marcus Voss, President. “However, we could not muster enough support to form a viable team and have had to discontinue the program for the foreseeable future.”

Coach Tolbert initiated the football in 2001. After being away from the campus for seven years, he returned in 2009 to take the helm again. Despite his leadership, the program was unable to build momentum.

“I wish Coach Tolbert well as he looks to the future,” said Fr. Marcus. “Though we have had to discontinue football, I look forward to the success of our other athletic programs.”

Saint Bernard graduate in movie

2010-08-23T12:25:00.001-07:00

A Saint Bernard Prep graduate is set to hit the big screen in theatres everywhere this weekend. John Wright, Jr. (PS ’45-JC48) of Birmingham, Alabama landed a supporting role in an Eli Roth horror film, "The Last Exorcism" to be released in theatres by Lionsgate on August 27. Wright plays the father of the lead character, Patrick Fabian, who both play evangelical preachers.

In a facebook wall post at facebook.com/stbernardprep Wright sends a friendly warning that even though the movie is rated PG-13 it has scary scenes, but I am the grey-haired actor who plays the lead actor’s father.

Wright said, “When I go, I’ll most likely close my eyes for the scary scenes!”

SBP students exceed National Test Scores

2010-08-19T07:25:00.001-07:00

St. Bernard Prep School reported the graduating seniors of the class of 2010 exceeded the state and national averages on the ACT exam. School Counselor, Barbara Rasplika said she was very pleased with the scores. “Because St. Bernard gives such a high priority to academic excellence,” Rasplika said, “our students traditionally do well on these national exams. Our faculty and students are to be commended for doing such an excellent job.”

A benchmark score is the minimum score needed on and ACT subject-area test to indicate a 50% chance of obtaining a B or higher or about 75% chance of obtaining a C or higher in the corresponding credit-bearing college courses. Included are English Composition, Algebra, Social Science and Biology. Rasplika reported that “in every category, St. Bernard exceeded the national and state averages.”

“At a time when many schools are having to curtail their programs because of funding issues, St. Bernard is making every effort to expand its academic offerings and give students the best possible learning environment,” said Fr. Marcus Voss, President of the school. “Our average student-teacher ratio is 8-1, which means our students get a lot of attention in the classroom. Their success on national exams is yet another indicator of the integrity of our program.”

“Last year we graduated 23 seniors which is a small class even by our standards,” Fr. Marcus continued. “Yet, those seniors earned over $3 million in scholarships to college. This year we have gotten off to another excellent start in our academic program and I look forward to seeing the same success this year and for the years to come.”

St. Bernard Prep is a co-ed college preparatory, boarding school for grades 7-12. Anyone interested in visiting should contact the school 256-739-6682 (ext 7128) or visit our website at www.stbernardprep.com.

SBP student to host benefit

2010-08-18T09:17:00.000-07:00

Jerrica Crawford, a sophomore at St. Bernard Preparatory School, will be hosting a spaghetti luncheon at St. Paul’s Lutheran Auditorium in Cullman, Alabama on Sunday, August 22, 2010 to benefit the Children’s Hospital Burn unit in Birmingham, Alabama.

At St. Bernard all students are required to earn ten hours of community service each semester. Jerrica said after giving this much thought it was like a voice inside her head reminded her of a relatives experience at Children’s. “My cousin was seriously burned nineteen years ago when at the age of two she stuck her hand into a wall heater and was burned by the pilot light,” commented Jerrica.

Though Jerrica wasn’t born and her only knowledge comes from photographs and scars on her cousin, she understands the compassion shown to these children who are in a great deal of pain.

“Sometimes we forget the little things that matter,” Crawford said. All proceeds raised from the spaghetti supper will go toward the activity room at the hospital. Every dollar raised will be matched by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.

Jerrica is thrilled as the excitement builds for Sunday’s event. Smiling she said, “Everyone has been so supportive of this project. I appreciate all the donations and time from my amazing friends and family.”

The luncheon of spaghetti, garlic bread, salad and dessert is being prepared by Bob Howell, Don Warnke, ladies of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, and family members. Lunch donations will be accepted from noon until 2 p.m. to purchase new arts, crafts, games and toys for the activity room on the Children’s Hospital burn unit floor.

Entertainment will be provided by The Suzuki Strings of Alabama, directed by Mrs. Penney Adair.

Jerrica is the daughter of Marty and Sherri Crawford. She invites everyone to join her on Sunday, August 22 from noon until 2 p.m. in her efforts to ease the pain for children struggling with burns.

SBP students assigned responsibilities

2010-08-18T06:10:00.000-07:00

SBP Headmaster, Fr. Joel Martin, called a special assembly with faculty and students at St. Bernard Preparatory School earlier this week to address the students on the topic of personal responsibilities, academic achievement and moral development.

For beginners, the Benedictine headmaster read a section of the school’s philosophy statement to students in attendance: …”students…will learn to discipline themselves so that eventually others will not have to do so…” Fr. Joel reminded students that it is all a matter of growing up!

One hundred and sixteen high school students have had a week to acclimate to their new environment. Students were encouraged to be in contact with the guidance office about making arrangements for travelling to take the ACT, SAT, or TOFUL exams. Students are expected to be prompt in attendance, and to keep track of their textbooks and personal belongings.

Mr. John Tekulve, Assistant Headmaster, addressed the uniform code stating students are expected to look their best by wearing single colored black or dark brown shoes while clothed in their school uniform of white shirts with plaid skirts or khaki pants for girls and khaki pants for boys which are purchased from a uniform company.

Tekulve reminded students to make sure their shirts are ironed, buttoned, and tails tucked, and urged them to be especially attentive to their appearance at Mass and other prayers. “We know God doesn’t care what we look like, but it’s respect and what we think of God that matters,” Tekulve said.

In closing, Fr. Joel reminded students of several requirements: first, presence in class is expected of all, and unexcused absences will result in Saturday school make-up work. Second, “Your parents have made a great sacrifice to send you to St. Bernard. The principal focus here is academic responsibility.” Then pass-play rule set for athletes by the Alabama High School Athletic Association was explained, and the further academic expectations set by St. Bernard for all students. Students who fail a core course are allowed to make that coursework up in summer school for athletic eligibility, however, St. Bernard Prep still requires that the course be taken again at St. Bernard.

St. Bernard Prep is a co-ed day and boarding school operated by the Benedictine monks at St. Bernard Abbey for grades 7-12. For more information phone (256)739-6682 or visit www.stbernardprep.com.

St. Bernard begins new school year

2010-08-10T08:34:00.000-07:00

St. Bernard Preparatory School started its 119th year on Monday, August 9, with Fr. Joel Martin, Headmaster, welcoming students, faculty, and staff to the new academic year. In his opening remarks, he recognized the many changes that have taken place since last school year.

Mr. John Tekulve, will be assisting at the high school this year as Assistant to the Headmaster, while Mr. William Calvert will be holding that position in the middle school. New faculty members include Mrs. Delila Fox, returning to teach mathematics at St. Bernard after a few years sabbatical, and Mr. Stephen Calvert at the Middle School. Dr. Donna Bryant’s new position as Admissions Director was also announced.
In addition to staff and faculty changes, several renovations have taken place around the campus, including upgrades to both the boys’ and girls’ dormitories and the administration building. New text books are already being used and an upgrade in technology is being planned for the first semester.

“St. Bernard is blessed with a number of students from all over the United States, including territories such as Puerto Rico as well as a number of international students hailing from Korea, Mexico, and China,’ said Fr. Joel. “This diversity of background, nationality, religion and culture is part of what makes St. Bernard so special, preparing our students for the global society in which we live.” St. Bernard boasts a student/faculty ratio of 8:1, which enables teachers to give one-on-one attention to students, thus ensuring each student’s success.

During the assembly, the leaders of the Student Council were introduced. Justin Michael Varquez, the Student Council President, welcomed his fellow students to the new year and encouraged them to be involved in all the activities that are planned.
Ms. Katie Hawkins, SBPS Spanish Teacher, spoke of the Mentor Program for St. Bernard this year. She recognized those students who were mentoring new students, and encouraged all to help each other. The work of the mentors was already present as one walked up and down the hallways, spotting notes of encouragement left on the lockers of new students.

Abbot Cletus Meagher, O.S.B., the Abbot of St. Bernard, reminded the students of their wonderful opportunities at St. Bernard, emphasizing that St. Bernard has a long tradition of educational excellence in a Christian environment. He recognized the valuable contributions of alumni which enable St. Bernard to develop and continue in its mission of providing a Christian education.

As Chaplain, Fr. Bede Marcy led first the faculty and staff, and then the students in their “Renewal of Commitment to Education and Formation.” Abbot Cletus brought the assembly to a close with prayer and words of encouragement to excel in every way during the coming year.

Middle School greets new faces

2010-08-10T08:29:00.000-07:00

Seventh grade began a day of first for twenty-one students at St. Bernard Middle School, and one new faculty member. Stephen Calvert began his first day for the 2010-11 academic year with his first teaching position at St. Bernard Middle School. Calvert is serving as 7th grade math and 8th grade Algebra and Pre-Algebra, and literature teacher.

Having been public schooled all of his life, he began the first day of his private school career with a day of opening prayer, blessings, the pledge of allegiance and singing God Bless America with the entire Middle School community.

In the classroom he addressed the class as though he had been teaching for years by introducing himself and covering his syllabus. “In seventh grade math, we are basically trying to set things up for Algebra,” he said to his class of ten students. “The more math you do, the better you get.”

His expectations left nothing unturned. Calvert instructed, “I expect you to be punctual, prepared, respectful, and able to follow instructions, as well as to complete all assignments.”

Calvert said everyone has a different way of doing things, and encouraged the students to share their ways of doing math with the class.

Getting to know the students was important too. Each student was asked to introduce themselves to the class by standing and sharing information about their summer. “It’s always interesting what you discover about students,” Calvert said smiling. “Some went to the gulf and experienced the oil spill; some played baseball; one did barrel racing, one did gymnastics, several visited relatives within the states, and some just played video games.”

Calvert is looking forward to his first year at St. Bernard. St. Bernard Middle School enrolled thirty-nine students for grades 7-8, and is awaiting the arrival of another seventh grade international student from Korea this week.

Summer improvements completed at St. Bernard Prep

2010-08-05T06:52:00.000-07:00

Alumni and friends of St. Bernard have enhanced the looks of the dormitories at St. Bernard Prep in Cullman through their benevolence with the Summer Improvement Campaign. School President, Fr. Marcus Voss, OSB reported the campaign has allowed several enhancements to be made in both dorm facilities on campus. Resident students at St. Bernard Prep will find many surprises when arriving on campus Sunday to begin the 2010-11 academic years.

The girl’s dorm received new light fixtures, mattresses, and showers while three administrative offices in the Administration Building were restored, as well as the basement floor.

In addition to new mattresses, Benedict East (boy’s dorm) received a number of enhancements as well. All wooden floors were restored, and the beds refinished.

Both dorm recreation rooms received new furniture and 42” flat screen televisions. “Seeing students enjoying their new home environment at St. Bernard Prep is important to us,” Voss said. “Our alumni support through the Summer Improvement Campaign and community support of our Bloomin’ Festival has been a blessing to the program.”

Fr. Marcus said restoration of three administrative offices in the Administration Building have been made as well. The school will be moving toward advances in the technology field soon by placing smart boards in the middle school and high school.

St. Bernard is expecting more than 120 students to enroll in the high school and 36 students for the middle school. St. Bernard Prep is a day and boarding school for students in grades 7-12. Anyone interested in more information should contact the school by calling (256)739-6682 or www.stbernardprep.com.

Glasscock breaks records for Swim Team

2010-08-03T06:57:00.000-07:00

Rising sophmore Bennett Glasscock won 5 gold medals this past weekend at the 2010 ARPA State Swim Meet. 1500 swimmers from across Alabama qualified and competed in the meet in Valley, Alabama. Bennett was District and State champion in Freestyle, Backstroke and Butterfly. His 13-14 boys relay also won gold the medley and freestyle relays.

Bennett broke every 13-14 boys record for Cullman Swim Team. He started the summer attending the University of Texas, Longhorn Swim Camp, coached by Olympic and NCAA Champions, Eddie Reese. Other high points of the competitive summer were winning 5 gold medals at the Tennessee Valley Championships.

He will be representing St. Bernard Prep School this year in ASHAA swimming. Bennett is the son of Carson and Wendy Glasscock.

Pre-registration underway at SBP

2010-07-16T12:25:00.001-07:00

Miss Martha Anne Warnke, St. Bernard Middle School, assists Mary Lou Gamble and her daughters, Theresa and Katherine during the registration process at St. Bernard Prep School. St. Bernard Prep School is currently accepting students in grades 7-12. Anyone wishing more information should contact the Admissions Office by calling (256)739-6682 or visiting www.stbernardprep.com. To keep up with the latest news like Saint Bernard Prep on Facebook.

Pre-Registration set for St. Bernard Prep

2010-07-12T12:31:00.000-07:00

St. Bernard Preparatory School in Cullman is preparing for pre-registration Wednesday and Thursday, July 14-15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily for the 2010-11 Academic Year. Students have been mailed schedules and may print permission forms from the school website at www.stbernardprep.com.

Anyone interested in enrolling should contact the Admissions Office at (256)739-6682 for information and a campus tour. St. Bernard Prep is a co-ed Catholic Boarding and Day school operated by the Benedictine Monks of St. Bernard Abbey for grades 7-12.

Carolyn Branch Retires

2010-07-01T05:53:00.001-07:00

Carolyn Branch, who has served as the assistant to the President for almost 18 years, recently announced her retirement. Her retirement will become effective on June 30, 2010.

During years at St. Bernard, she was sometimes called the “voice of St. Bernard” since she operated the telephone system and answered almost all incoming calls to the campus. Her major responsibilities included the planning and executing of the Annual Alumni Reunion as well as managing the vast majority of correspondence issued from the Development and President Office.

“I have certainly depended on Carolyn over these many years,” said Fr. Marcus Voss, President. “So often when I have had to be away from the campus, I knew that I could depend on her to manage the office and take care of the needs that would invariably arise. She has always been a strong team player and forever willing to give a helping hand. I am grateful to her for years of service and wish her well as she looks forward to her retirement.”

At the Alumni Reunion Banquet held on June 26th, Carolyn was given a certificate from the St. Bernard community which read in part: “To Carolyn Branch for her dedicated service to St. Bernard. She has performed laudably in every area. Her untiring work during the Annual Appeals, Summer Appeals and the Campaign for Capital Improvements has contributed immeasurably to their success. All who know her at St. Bernard express our deepest appreciation for her unwavering support for the past 18 years and wish her an enjoyable and blessed retirement.”

Calvert named middle school principal at St. Bernard

2010-05-26T07:27:00.000-07:00

William Calvert has been named the new middle school principal at St. Bernard Prep School in Cullman. Since 2005, he has served as the principal of Cold Springs High School in Cullman County. Just hours after Calvert’s retirement was accepted by the Cullman County Board of Education, Fr. Joel Martin, Headmaster at St. Bernard Prep School, announced that Calvert had accepted the position of St. Bernard Middle School principal.

Calvert replaces John Tekulve, who has been serving as principal of the middle school which opened in 2007. Tekulve has accepted a position as principal of St. Bernard High School assisting Fr. Joel Martin, the Headmaster.

“We are delighted to announce these two appointments,” Fr. Joel said. “These men are of the finest caliber and we look forward to having them lead St. Bernard in the years to come.”

Calvert, a native of Cullman County, earned his Bachelor of Science Degree at Jacksonville State University and his Masters Degree at the University of Alabama Birmingham. He has worked in the field of education for almost thirty years. During his career he has been a teacher, coach, athletic director, assistant principal and principal. A proven leader, he has worked for excellence in every school where he has served. Most recently he instituted programs at Cold Springs High School that helped the students enrolled there achieve the highest math and writing scores in the Cullman County School System.

Along with his skills in academics, Calvert also has a solid reputation in athletics, especially in track and field. While at Jacksonville State, he set the school record in the 3000-meter steeple chase as a senior. During his time as coach at both Cullman and Cold Springs, he has seen a total of 24 of his athletes sign collegiate scholarship. Because of his solid athletic credentials, Calvert was inducted in April 2010 into the Cullman County Sports Hall of Fame.

“William Calvert brings years of experience both as a coach, teacher and administrator,” said John Tekulve. “He will be good for St. Bernard. He exhibits good judgment when dealing with students, and keeps the students his top priority.”

Calvert resides in Cullman with his wife Sherry. They have two grown children, Christa Calvert Spratling and Stephen Calvert.

St. Bernard holds commencement

2010-05-24T09:04:00.000-07:00

St. Bernard Prep School in Cullman graduated twenty-three seniors on Sunday, May 23rd in an impressive ceremony conducted in the Abbey Church and under the direction of Fr. Joel Martin, Headmaster of the School. After welcoming members of the Board of Directors, the faculty, the staff and the invited guests, Fr. Joel noted that this year’s graduating seniors had the distinction of earning over $3.5 million dollars in scholarships and were accepted into 79 colleges and universities.

As part of the 111th commencement exercises, the St. Bernard Board of Directors recognized two alumni who received the “Distinguished Alumnus Award.” The Most Rev. Oscar H. Lipscomb, Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Mobile, and Lee J. Styslinger, Jr., founder of Altec, Inc., were inducted into the St. Bernard Distinguished Alumnus Class of 2010. Fr. Marcus Voss, President of St. Bernard Prep School, presided over this portion of the graduation ceremonies.

Archbishop Lipscomb was the main celebrant and homilist at the Baccalaureate Mass held earlier in the day. During his homily he reminded the graduates of the challenges they will meet especially as they learn to exercise their freedoms as young adults. Lee Styslinger delivered the Commencement address and emphasized the importance of the graduates staying connected to each other as they look to a future filled with opportunities.

After the commencement address, Fr. Joel announced this year’s graduation awards. Ana Kathleen Gauthier received the valedictorian award while Cathryn Marie Schartung was named salutatorian. In giving the general excellence medal, the highest award given to a graduating senior, Fr. Joel stated that “the criteria for this award requires that a student must be enrolled at St. Bernard Prep for the last two full years, be dedicated to academic excellence, exercise leadership and represent the values of the school.” The 2010 general excellence medal was presented to Elizabeth Ann Schweers.

Diplomas were presented to the graduating seniors by Abbot Cletus Meagher with Fr. Marcus Voss assisting him. After the awarding of the diplomas, Ana Kathleen Gauthier gave the valedictory address during which she highlighted the importance of the journey that will lead this year’s graduates to their life goals.

Fr. Joel Martin ended the ceremony calling attention to the role that challenges play in life. “We need challenges because we come alive in struggles,” he said. “We have high expectations for your future. You’re made for greatness. Go and take St. Bernard with you.”

Music for the graduation exercises was provided by Dr. Rebecca Whited, organist and director of choral music at St. Bernard, as well as the Alabama Pipes and Drums Corps. The Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree Honor Guard of the Fr. Leo Carter Assembly 2624 also participated in the ceremonies.

Following the prayer and dismissal by Abbot Cletus Meagher, a reception was held in the St. Bernard Dining Hall.

Eighth grades holds graduation ceremony

2010-05-21T11:51:00.000-07:00

Eighth grade students at St. Bernard Prep School finished their last school day on Thursday, May 20th, and celebrated with a graduation ceremony in the Abbey Church at 7 p.m. the same evening. Abbot Cletus Meagher, O.S.B. presided over the ceremony.
“When I graduated 52 years ago from grade school in Chattanooga, TN, we held a ceremony just like this one,” Abbot Cletus said. “It started with a prayer, and ended with a prayer in the Church.”
Jokingly Abbot Cletus told the students he didn’t remember what the talk at his ceremony was about, and he didn’t expect them to either, but one thing he did want to stress was to keep Christ the center of your life.
“At St. Bernard our lives are centered around Christ,” stressed Abbot Cletus . “Remember who you are, and be thankful for all of the people who are responsible for getting you where you are today. Never bring shame to your family name, yourself, and most of all to Christ.”
After the awarding of diplomas, students were introduced as the 2010 Freshmen Class of St. Bernard Preparatory.
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SBP students place in art competition

2010-05-17T12:35:00.001-07:00

Saint Bernard Preparatory School Art Students competed at Congressman Robert Aderholt’s 13th Annual 4th Congressional District Art Competition on Friday, April 30 in Gadsden, AL. Haleigh Black, Cullman, AL took 3rd place for mixed media; Kylie Peebles, Decatur, AL placed 2nd for blockprint; Tyler Patton, Madison, AL claimed 3rd place for blockprint; and Minji Kang, Korea, came in 3rd place for Collage.

2010 Bloomin' Festival Grand Prize Claimed

2010-05-07T06:51:00.000-07:00

Marianne Prime of Shoal Creek, AL took delivery of her new 2010 Ford Focus from Fr. Marcus Voss, O.S.B., President of St. Bernard Prep School in Cullman. Marianne won the automobile as part of the 26th Annual Bloomin' Festival giveaway!

Prom King and Queen

2010-05-03T07:57:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 1 Seniors Jonathan Gray and Mary-Claire Bennett were crowned the 2010 St. Bernard Prep Prom King and Queen. Prom was held at the Rotunda in Cullman.

Juniors honored at St. Bernard Prep

2010-04-29T06:31:00.000-07:00

Twenty-eight juniors at St. Bernard Preparatory School in Cullman were honored during a special Blessing of the Rings Ceremony held in the Ave Maria Grotto Gardens. Abbot Cletus Meagher, OSB offered a special prayer for the group that they would continue to progress as students and become effective leaders of the community, especially as Seniors in the coming academic year 2010-2011.

Abbot Cletus, a 1962 graduate of St. Bernard Prep, spoke of his class ring as part of the ceremony. “My ring is blue and gold which is the colors of the Blessed Virgin Mary. When I entered the monastery, I gave my ring to my mother. At the death of my parents, my brothers returned my ring to me.” He further stated the ring was symbolic of St. Bernard school colors blue and gold and everthing on his ring was unique to Saint Bernard.

Abbot Cletus said rings were a symbol of eternity. “God is eternal. He is the source and goal of everything we do. Your class ring symbolizes your love of St. Bernard Prep to one another, and is unique to you and St. Bernard. Wear it with dignity and pride.“

St. Bernard Prep School Headmaster, Fr. Joel Martin, O.S.B. assisted Abbot Cletus during the ceremony.

St. Bernard is a private co-educational day and boarding school for grades 7-12 operated by the Benedictine monks of St. Bernard Abbey. To view photos of the ceremony visit our website and click flickr or like us on facebook. www.stbernardprep.com.

Bloomin’ Festival picture perfect

2010-04-23T06:47:00.000-07:00

Weather conditions for the 26th Annual Bloomin’ Festival produced a picture perfect weekend for the St. Bernard Abbey and Prep School community in Cullman. Thousands of visitors took advantage of the low 70’s temperatures and enjoyed the weekend browsing the quality arts and crafts produced by artisans across the Southeastern United States.

Festival Director Joyce Nix was thrilled with the turnout. “We have worked so hard to create a quality show with a family atmosphere. The weather certainly contributed to the success of our work.“

More than 150 vendors adorned the grounds of St. Bernard Abbey and Prep School. Parents, faculty, staff and students volunteered the entire weekend to work the festival.

City police were on hand to assist with traffic control and parking. “Everything went like clockwork, “Nix said. “We appreciate the assistance from Mayor Townsend and Chief Culpepper.”

Nix said without sponsorships Bloomin’ Festival would struggle. “We are so thankful for our sponsors, and we encourage the public to let them know how much their support of Bloomin’ Festival is appreciated. “ For a complete listing, visit the festival website at www.bloominfestival.com.

Winners of the grand prize giveaway were as follows: 2010 Ford Focus, Marianne Prime of Shoal Creek, AL; 2 nights at Zoder’s Inn in Gatlinburg, TN, Steffen Segewitz of Huntsville, AL; Apple iPod Touch, Joseph Nam Tran, Cullman; Garmin GPS Navigation System, Loretta S. Blaylock, Gardendale, AL; and the Phillips Digital Photo frame was won by Marie Hollaway, of Cullman.

All proceeds from Bloomin’ Festival benefit the operations of St. Bernard Preparatory School in Cullman. See what people are saying about Bloomin’ Festival on Facebook www.facebook/bloominfestival. For more information about St. Bernard Prep visit www.stbernardprep.com or follow us on facebook www.facebook/stbernardprep.

Bloomin' Festival plans set for April 17-18

2010-04-13T08:17:00.000-07:00

Plans are being finalized now to welcome more than 150 artist and craftsmen to the campus os St. Bernard Abbey and Prep School for the 26th Annual Bloomin' Festival Arts and Crafts Fair. The show is set to feature blacksmiths, chair caner, glass blowers, and potters. Other items available are birdhouses, quilts, plants, jewelry, clothing, watercolors, oil painting, caricature artist, and so much more.

A 5K race will begin on April 17 at 8 a.m. Runners wishing to participate should register before 7:30 a.m. at the Fazi-Richard Athletic Complex.

Specialty foods can be purchased on site. Funnel cakes, strawberry waffles, and fresh squeezed lemonade are just a sampling of tasty treats. Roasted almonds, kettle corn, peanut brittle, fudge and shaved ice will be available as well.

The lunch menu consists of polish sausage dogs, hot dogs, hamburgers, and smoked chicken served with baked beans, corn on the cob, bread, and Pepsi products.

Ave Maria Grotto is open the entire weekend for a reduced price of $3. A donation of $5 is requested at the festival gate.

The giveaway of a 2010 Ford Focus along with a Gatlingburg vacation and many other valuable prizes will be awarded on Sunday at 5 p.m.

Festival hours are 9 am to 5 p.m. daily. Become a fan on facebook.

Blood drive held at SBP

2010-04-12T09:03:00.000-07:00

Student Council President, Louis YuTiamco, was pleased with the American Red Cross Blood Drive held last Thursday. Thirty-four people, most of which were first time donors, presented thirty-one pints of blood for the American Red Cross.

Tennis wins first section match of season

2010-04-07T06:36:00.000-07:00

The SBP Boys' Tennis Team won their first section match of the season yesterday over Westminster Christian of Huntsville, 5-4. Winners included #1 doubles team of Louis Yutiamco and Jake Killebrew (10-4) and #3 and currently undefeated team of JC Albritton and Minsang Kim, 10-6.

Winners in singles play were #1 Louis Yutaimco, extending his own unbeaten string, 10-3, #4 Ethan Arndt, winning his first match of the year, 10-7, and in #6 singles, Minsang Kim, 10-4.

The Saints travel to the UAH tennis complex today to face 3A foe, Catholic of Huntsville.

October Trip to the Holy Land Planned

2010-03-30T07:24:00.000-07:00

Alumni and friends of St. Bernard are invited to join Fr. Marcus Voss for a trip of a lifetime visiting the biblical sites in the Holy Land. The 10-day tour is scheduled to leave for the Holy Land on October 18, 2010. While in the Holy Land, transportation will be provided by deluxe motorcoaches and overnight stays will be in 1st class hotels. Also included in the cost of the tour will be guided sightseeing, entrance fees to all sites visited, buffet breakfast and dinner daily and a bible study guide. Tour members may also add an optional 5-day extension to visit Istanbul and the biblical site of Ephesus.

While in Israel the tour will visit Jericho, Qumran and Bethlehem as well as the Mount of Olives, the Garden of Gethsemane and Emmaus. Members of the tour will walk the “Via Dolorosa,” the traditional way of the cross in the old city of Jerusalem. Mass will be celebrated at the Church of the Visitation, the Church of St. Catherine and other important churches in Jerusalem. The tour will include the opportunity to visit Masada, King Herod’s stronghold overlooking the Dead Sea. In the Galilee, the group will cross the Sea of Galilee, celebrate Mass at the Church of the Beatitudes and visit baptismal sites along the River Jordan.

The Istanbul and Ephesus extension will include a visit to Hagia Sophia with its beautiful glass mosaics and Byzantine Art. The ancient cities of Nicaea and Troy will be visited. The final stop will be the spectacular excavations that have been completed in Ephesus, a city visited by St. Paul.

Educational Opportunities Tours (EO) is serving as the organizers of the trip and Fr. Marcus Voss is serving as chaplain. For more information, please contact Fr. Marcus at frmarcus@stbernardprep.com;
or, at 1600 St. Bernard Drive SE, Cullman, AL 35055; or, at 256-255-5882. Participants are encouraged to sign up for the tour before the end of May.

SBP completes SAC review

2010-03-16T07:04:00.000-07:00

St. Bernard Preparatory School completed the final phase of a year-long reaffirmation of accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools on Wednesday and Thursday, March 10-11. Dr. Donna Bryant, Assistant Headmaster at St. Bernard Prep, served as the project coordinator. Chairing the review team was Dr. Maurice Persall, Dean of the School of Education of Samford University. He was assisted by Dr. David Balik, the Dean of the Faculty at Briarwood Christian School in Birmingham and Dr. Lynn Kirkland, Professor of Education from the University of Alabama, Birmingham. At the end of the two-day review, St. Bernard Preparatory School was reaffirmed as an accredited school by the Southern Association (SACS).

Accredited schools are required to undergo a review every five years. In preparation for the SACS review, the faculty completed a Standards Assessment Report which is an internal analysis of the school’s current practices. “There are seven standards which are uniform and are used throughout the country,” said Dr. Bryant. “In order for a school to be accredited it must equal or exceed what every other accredited school in the country is doing.”

St. Bernard teachers served on the committees which addressed each of the seven standards. Each committee was required to submit a report which documented current practices in each of the seven standards. These seven reports were then compiled into one document called the Standards Assessment Report. This document, which was submitted to the state office of SACS in January 2010, was used by the members of the visiting team in preparation for their visit to the campus.

During their review, the SACS visitation team met with the faculty committee members, spoke with currently enrolled students and talked with their parents. They also met with several members of the St. Bernard Board of Directors as well as selected administrators. “Part of the on-site visit is to ensure that our Standards Assessment Report accurately reflects the actual practices of the school,” said Dr. Bryant.

At the end of the two-day visit, the committee reaffirmed St. Bernard Preparatory School as an accredited school and offered commendations and recommendations to the faculty, staff and administration on their work in educating today’s youth. “It was evident to us,” said Dr. Persall, “that St. Bernard Preparatory School has a committed faculty, staff and administration and holds a very distinctive place in the community.”

St. Bernard Preparatory School is a accredited, co-educational Catholic Boarding and Day School for students in grades seven through twelve. St. Bernard is operated by the Benedictine monks at St. Bernard Abbey. The 800 acre campus is home to the world famous Ave Maria Grotto, St. Bernard Abbey Retreat and Conference Center, and Alabama’s only Benedictine Abbey – St. Bernard Abbey.

Middle School Scholars Bowl competes at State

2010-03-09T13:01:00.000-08:00

St. Bernard Scholars Bowl team recently participated in the Alabama Scholastic Competition at Hoover High School. Students qualified to participate earlier at the district competition which was held at Austin High School in Decatur. St. Bernard Prep School was among the top 33 middle schools in Alabama qualifying to participate.

While the team fell short of advancing after round play with a record of 3-3; Team Captain, Michayla Brown received a medal recognizing her as a State Tournament Scholars Bowl All Star. This title is awarded based on the total points scored during state competition.

Headmaster, John Tekulve said he was proud of what his students had accomplished. “We have been to state every year since the Middle School opened. However, Michayla is a first to be recognized as a State All-Star performer.”

Team members practice before school several days per week with their sponsor, Mrs. Lisa Rawlings. Members include: Arabella Holsonback, Mackenzie Bockhold, Michayla Brown, Alex Anderson, Daniel Coccia, and Jake Sweeney.

Open House held at St. Bernard

2010-03-09T08:32:00.000-08:00

St. Bernard Prep School in Cullman recently held its Spring Open House with more than 60 people in attendance. Families all across north Alabama took advantage of warm temperatures and enjoyed the hospitality offered by St. Bernard monks, faculty, parents, and students.

Headmaster, Fr. Joel Martin, OSB said it was a wonderful turnout. “We are always delighted to have visitors on campus. St. Bernard is a special place, and our students share that special bond with new families as they visit our campus.”

There were twelve new students who were interested in the middle school program and seven other families visited who were interested in the high school. Admissions Director, John Arndt said he was pleased with the turnout as well. “We are excited about next year and the possibility of hosting more residential students in the middle school grades,” Arndt said.

Up until the Fall of 2009 only high school students were allowed to live on campus. However at a recent Board of Directors meeting, the board passed a motion allowing middle school students to become residential student as well.

Small student/teacher ratios allow St. Bernard to produce some of the finest students in the state. St. Bernard students consistently achieve higher than the National Average scores on the ACT; and are awarded millions of dollars in academic scholarships to some of the nations top schools. Along with the academic programs there is also a full spectrum of athletic activities as well as music and fine arts that are available to students who enroll at St. Bernard Preparatory School.

Applications are being accepted now for students in grades 7-11. Anyone interested in visiting the campus or applying should contact the school at (256)739-6682 or www.stbernardprep.com.

Baseball Season in full swing at SBP

2010-03-05T08:05:00.000-08:00

Saint Bernard Preparatory School hosted their baseball season opener yesterday afternoon with Asbury High School from Marshall County. The Saints fell 0-5.