Students and faculty at Alleman High School in Rock Island, IL put “faith first” in everything they do. Literally. That was the
Fr. Dan Mirabelli with Fr. John Van Wiel and Bishop Christopher Glancy
case last week, when administrators held the school’s Homecoming Mass. They invited special guests, including graduates who are clergy to come back and celebrate with the school community.
And Viatorians took them up on the offer. Bishop Christopher Glancy, CSV, who is a 1978 graduate, returned to be the main celebrant, while Fr. John Van Wiel, CSV, a 1957 graduate and the school’s third principal, concelebrated with other alumni and area priests. Fr. William Haesaert, CSV, a 1963 graduate, is retired and living in Las Vegas, and he was unable to attend.
Bishop Glancy receives the offertory gifts from students.
“We have so very much to be thankful for,” school officials said, “and celebrating the Mass brings us together to thank the Lord for the blessing that is Alleman Catholic High School.”
At the center of the more than 15 priests who attended was the school’s longest serving faculty member, Fr. Daniel Mirabelli, CSV, who arrived at the school in 1966 and continues to serve in development, in a part time capacity.
Alleman Catholic High School opened in 1949 and four years later, in 1953, Viatorians began arriving to help staff the school. Its vision statement reflects Viatorian values that underscore all of the schools in which they have served:
Fr. John Van Wiel enjoyed walking the familiar hallways during a tour of the school.
“We strive to provide a foundation for the religious, moral, intellectual, emotional and social development of each individual. We’re determined to produce a catalyst for change and for growth in the Catholic community as well as in society.”