It’s a tradition that continues to console grieving families after the loss of a loved one. Back in 1987, during his first year as president, Fr. Charles Bolser, CSV, offered an Alumni Memorial Mass, timed near All Souls’ Day, to remember alumni from both Saint Viator and Sacred Heart of Mary high schools.
Fr. Dan Lydon in procession with Fr. John Eustice following him
Over its more than 35 years, the tradition draws both families of alumni that have recently passed away, as well as those who lost alumni many years ago, but they continue to find solace in the chapel and in the Mass celebrated by Viatorians.
This year’s Mass drew three Viatorians to concelebrate: Fr. Bolser, Fr. John Eustice, CSV, and Fr. Daniel Lydon, CSV. Together, they connected with many of the alumni families present. Fr. Bolser stays in touch with generations of alumni over his long tenure with the school, while Fr. John returned to the school this year as Director of Campus Ministry. Fr. Dan is a 1973 alumnus and former teacher and president of the school.
“It is in remembering – as a community – that we find healing,” Fr. Bolser said, “in all of our diversity, we are one community with the heart of the Christ holding us together and healing our wounds.”
After the Mass, Ryan Aiello with Fr. Charles Bolser and Fr. Dan Lydon
One of those on hand for the Mass was Ryan Aiello, in his first year as President of Saint Viator High School. He was impressed with how the tradition unites all alumni, regardless of their graduating classes.
“Honoring our classmates in this special way speaks to the meaning and value we place on community at Saint Viator,” he said. “As Lions for life, we serve, support and remember each other forever.”
Afterwards, families had a chance to see their loved ones’ names on engraved plaques showcased on the back wall of the chapel. Currently, there are 780 names on the “memorial wall” and 280 on an adjacent wall that honors faculty, staff and benefactors.
“As we tell our stories and remember, we find healing in our laughter and in our tears,” Fr. Bolser added. “Those that we remember still walk with us on our common journey of life.”