The start of the school year brought many changes for St. Joe’s this year, but one of the most exciting was a new priest.
Father Paul Connolly began his new assignment in July 2009 and was excited to meet the students when school began. The school is fortunate to see his very familiar smiling face on a regular basis. He often visits the classrooms of the lower grades.
Fourth-graders Logan Smith and Brett Baxter think Fr. Connolly is understanding and easy to talk to. He eats lunch in the cafeteria every day his schedule allows it.
Kindergarten student Jaide Kueter says, “Father waves to us at lunch!” He also teaches seventh- and eighth-grade religion class once a week, covering a variety of subjects. Drew Schroeder, eighth-grader, said, “He’s nice; he played in P.E. with us!”
Fr. Connolly has embraced the people of DeWitt also. Because of the former coach’s sports background, the students see him at a variety of sporting events, whether it’s St. Joseph or the high school teams playing. The priest is very supportive of community events like the Skeffington Memorial Race, Autumnfest and fundraisers. His love for golf was evident immediately when he signed up for the third annual St. Joe’s Golf Tournament before he even moved in!
“Fr. Connolly is kind to all and shows no favoritism,” comments fourth-grade teacher Mary Mosier.
The school feels very blessed to have Fr. Connolly!
