Spotlight Archives • St. Luke's School

SLES Grilling Champion, Cammie Moore

Shelby Stevens — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 19:08:36 +0000

One Wildcat Lights Up Competitive Grilling.

St. Luke’s has a very talented young student named Cammie Moore who is currently in the 8th grade. Not only is she a dedicated honor student, Student Council Vice President, National Junior Honor Society Vice President, but she is also a grilling champion. In addition to her culinary talents, Cammie enjoys playing soccer, volleyball, and track.

Cammie Moore began her hobby of grilling when she was in the fifth grade at just nine years old. She discovered her love for grilling after taking her first kid’s barbecue cooking class at Loblolly Farm in Semmes. It was during this class that she learned about the different cuts of meat as well as how to properly trim, tie, season and cook them. She found the experience both fun and inspiring, igniting a passion for grilling that has only grown over the years.

When asked what she loves most about competitive grilling, Cammie highlights the creative process of developing seasoning combinations for different meats, and testing out what flavors complement each other. She loves sampling her grilled creations and sharing her recipes with her mom. In addition to competing in grilling competitions, she has participated in local cook-offs, further expanding her culinary expertise.

Cammie has achieved remarkable success in her grilling ventures. Recently, she was one of 16 teams competing in The Grilled Cheese Meltdown in October of 2024. She placed 2nd in People’s Choice for her Dragonfly Dust Seasoning Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese and took 3rd place for her Blueberry Vanilla Goat Cheese and Bacon Grilled Cheese. Impressively, she was the only kid competing in the event. At the Gulf Coast Mac Down, Cammie secured 1st place for her Cheeto Mac N Cheese and 2nd place for her Veggie Mac featuring Cauliflower.

When it comes to her personal grilling preferences, Cammie’s favorite food to grill is pork chops. She finds them easy to cook and believes they have the best flavor when prepared with her special seasoning blend. However, she also enjoys grilling a delicious ribeye or New York strip steak.

The same seasoning combination could win 1st place in one competition and land in last place in another.
Cammie Moore

There is a significant difference between grilling for fun and competitive grilling. Casual grilling is relaxed and allows for personal preferences, whereas competitive grilling requires precise execution. Competitions are judged on various factors, including temperature, flavor, appearance, texture, and overall presentation. Additionally, competitions are timed, and cooks must anticipate what the judges will enjoy, not just their own preferences. For example, if a judge dislikes salt and a dish is heavily seasoned, it may result in a lower score—even if another judge would have loved it. Cammie acknowledges that the competition is fierce, but she thrives on both the challenge and the fun.

For those interested in competitive grilling, Cammie offers some valuable advice: “One ‘bad’ score doesn’t mean you’re a ‘bad’ griller. Every competition and every judge is different. The same seasoning combination could win 1st place in one competition and land in last place in another. It all comes down to personal preferences. The key is to keep your head high and keep trying.”

Cammie encourages young grillers to start wherever they are, emphasizing that practice is key. She began as a 9-year-old with no prior experience near a 600-degree grill. With dedication and practice, she quickly became an accomplished competitor. She firmly believes that anyone can improve with effort and determination.

Cammie’s hard work has already paid off in a big way. In her first Ancillary Contest for the Steak Cook-Off Association (SCA), she placed 2nd and won her Golden Ticket to the World Championships. She is proof that dedication and passion can lead to extraordinary achievements.

Cammie’s next big competition will take place on May 3, 2025, at the Mobile’s Best Burger Championship at Loblolly Farm in Semmes, AL. She is currently seeking sponsors, vendors, and competitors—including kids' cooks, food trucks, restaurants, and backyard BBQ enthusiasts. A portion of the sponsorships will support St. Luke’s Tuition Assistance Program, helping more students receive a quality education.

Follow Cammie on her grilling journey on Facebook and Instagram at Griller Girl Cammie and support her as she continues to shine in the culinary world!

The post SLES Grilling Champion, Cammie Moore appeared first on St. Luke's School.

St. Luke’s Athletic Intern Program

Joseph Tiemann-Mena — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 14:42:08 +0000

Athletic Department Interns Lead Middle Schoolers.

The St. Luke's athletic intern program allows seniors to assist in coaching 6th-grade PE and foster a fun and structured environment. These interns help organize games, maintain discipline, and serve as role models for younger students. Their presence ensures students stay engaged while allowing them to explore leadership skills and potential careers in coaching or education.

More than just assistants, these seniors bring energy and enthusiasm that make PE enjoyable and meaningful for the 6th graders. Senior Ethan Watts plays a key role in the 6th-grade PE classes. He describes his job as “helping monitor the kids and [teaching] them games” while ensuring they have fun. For Ethan, this experience is a stepping stone toward a potential career. “I’ve thought about teaching and becoming a coach,” he explains.

The interns also introduce new activities and ensure games remain structured, keeping students excited for class. By stepping into a leadership role, Ethan and his fellow interns gain firsthand experience in working with younger students, giving them insight into the challenges and rewards of coaching and mentorship. Bryce Jordan, another intern, sees his role as bigger than just setting up games. “I try to help them grow into better people,” he says. Being an intern was a way for him to give back to the school. “I wanted a chance to help and volunteer with my school.” Bryce finds it rewarding to watch the 6th graders develop, form friendships, and gain confidence.

The bonds formed between the interns and students often extend beyond PE class, reinforcing a sense of community. Interns also develop patience, communication, and leadership skills that will serve them well in the future. The lessons they learn—how to manage a group, encourage teamwork, and make physical activity enjoyable—will benefit them whether they pursue coaching or any other leadership role later in life. For the 6th graders, the interns make PE more enjoyable. Prince Fields appreciates the leadership aspect of the program, saying, “I think that it’s really fun that the seniors have an opportunity to coach the younger kids during PE because they have more responsibility.”

The interns actively participate in games, help enforce fair play, and add excitement to the class. Mathias Valverde notes that they “help by preventing cheating and joining in on the games,” making PE more engaging. Their energy and enthusiasm encourage students to put in more effort and develop a genuine appreciation for physical activity. With the interns on the field, students feel more encouraged to take part in games and improve their skills, knowing they have older mentors cheering them on. Beyond simply assisting, the interns bring a contagious enthusiasm to PE. “They’re energetic, they can play with us… it’s just fun to be around them and play,” Jackson Reynolds shares. Their presence makes the class both structured and lively. Popular activities like dodgeball, trench ball, and indoor soccer become even more exciting with the seniors involved. Their participation helps bridge the gap between competition and fun, as younger students see the seniors as both authority figures and friends.

The presence of athletic interns also allows PE teachers to manage the class more effectively, as having additional leaders ensures every student remains engaged and involved. Through this program, the senior interns enhance PE for younger students while gaining valuable leadership experience. The interns contribute to an environment where 6th graders can develop teamwork, sportsmanship, and an appreciation for physical activity. Whether organizing games, ensuring fair play, or simply having fun with students, their impact is clear.

As these seniors prepare to graduate, they leave behind a legacy of mentorship and teamwork that has made a lasting impression on St. Luke’s. By balancing responsibility and fun, the athletic intern program benefits both the interns and the students they mentor, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for all involved.

The post St. Luke’s Athletic Intern Program appeared first on St. Luke's School.

Dylan Driskell Accepted Into All-State Choir Festival

Joseph Tiemann-Mena — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 16:56:55 +0000

Dylan Driskell Headed to All-State Choir Competition.

Dylan Driskell, a freshman at St. Luke’s Episcopal School, has achieved a remarkable milestone by being accepted into the prestigious All-State Choir Festival. This honor reflects not only his exceptional musical talent but also the dedication and passion he has poured into music throughout his life. Dylan’s achievement is a source of immense pride for the St. Luke’s Wildcat community, showcasing the strength of the school’s music program and the talent it fosters. His story also serves as a reminder of the transformative power of music and its ability to connect and inspire individuals.

The All-State Choral Festival, organized by the Alabama Vocal Association, is a three-day event that brings together the best young vocalists from across the state. Participants are selected through a rigorous audition process, competing against students from all over Alabama. The event provides these talented singers with the opportunity to work with nationally recognized choral clinicians, helping them refine their craft and broaden their musical horizons. The festival culminates in a professionally recorded concert at the BJCC Concert Hall in Birmingham, where the students perform challenging choral literature of the highest quality.

For Dylan, attending the festival represents a chance to push himself musically while collaborating with other exceptional singers. Dylan’s journey in music began early. At just five years old, he attended a gospel camp where he learned to sing in four-part harmony. This formative experience sparked a lifelong love for music and vocal performance. “It was very influential that I learned how to sing and four-part harmony at such a young age,” Dylan shared, reflecting on the significance of that early exposure.

His passion for music only grew stronger over the years, nurtured by his family’s deep musical roots. His father, Mr. Daniel Driskell, who serves as the band director at St. Luke’s, has played a pivotal role in cultivating Dylan’s talent. “We use it all the time,” Mr. Driskell remarked, emphasizing how music and four-part harmony are integral to their family’s daily life.

Dylan’s acceptance into the All-State Choir Festival is a reflection of his talent and hard work, but it also signifies his aspirations for the future. While he enjoys the immediate thrill of participating in such a prestigious event, Dylan has his sights set on long-term goals. He hopes to continue his musical journey by taking a choir class in college and potentially performing with larger musical organizations. “It gives opportunities for choir people to push themselves,” Dylan said, highlighting the unique value of the festival. Mr. Driskell echoed this sentiment, noting that the festival not only gathers the best high school singers from across Alabama but also provides a platform to showcase their dedication and skill.

Dylan’s accomplishment is a source of inspiration for the entire Wildcat community. His peers and teachers are thrilled to celebrate his success, recognizing it as a testament to the dedication and support of St. Luke’s music program. The school’s commitment to nurturing students’ talents and providing them with opportunities to excel shines through in moments like these. Dylan’s story is a reminder of the importance of perseverance, passion, and the willingness to embrace new challenges—qualities that the St. Luke’s Wildcats take great pride in fostering.

As the festival approaches, excitement continues to build within the St. Luke’s community. Dylan’s participation not only showcases his personal dedication but also reflects the collective pride and support of his family, friends, and educators. His journey highlights the importance of music in shaping young minds and creating opportunities for growth and connection. Congratulations to Dylan Driskell on this incredible achievement—we can’t wait to see where his musical journey takes him next! With his talent and determination, the future is undoubtedly bright for this remarkable young Wildcat.

The post Dylan Driskell Accepted Into All-State Choir Festival appeared first on St. Luke's School.

Biomed: Beyond Healthcare

Connie Jackson — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 15:27:31 +0000

Exploring Opportunities Beyond Healthcare in Biomedical Sciences.

Y
ou don't have to be solely interested in healthcare to find value in St. Luke's Biomedical Sciences program. The field of biomedical sciences offers a wide array of career paths that extend beyond traditional healthcare roles.

Senior Biomed student Hallie Dickinson has a passion for healthcare law and found an enriching experience by shadowing Mr. McDonough, an Assistant District Attorney whose work intersects with healthcare law. Her unique opportunity gave her an in-depth look at the different types of courts and the array of cases handled by the District Attorney's office.

The DA's officea prosecutes medical fraud and abuse cases, including Medicare, Medicaid, and insurance fraud. They also handle cases of medical malpractice and negligence, as well as those involving drug abuse or the illegal distribution of controlled substances. Additionally, the office addresses violations related to HIPAA and privacy alongside issues concerning mental health. Mr. McDonough's role at the District Attorney's office exemplifies how legal professionals can impact the healthcare sector.

The job shadow took place at the Mobile County Courthouse. Upon arrival, Hallie was greeted by Mr. McDonough and Fiji, a facility service dog trained to comfort victims testifying in court. They explored the district court's behind-the-scenes areas and observed various cases, primarily traffic violations. Other cases involved a murder trial, a complex domestic violence charge, and an assault case, which led to a request for a mental evaluation. Hallie learned that only circuit judges, not district judges, can order such assessments. She then had the chance to observe proceedings in the circuit courts and meet Judge Vicki M. Davis, rounding out her insightful experience in the legal system and its daily operations.

We are proud that our Biomedical Sciences program can provide foundational knowledge to thrive in numerous fields. Whether students are interested in impacting healthcare through law, technology, or business, our program offers pathways and support to help them achieve their goals!

The post Biomed: Beyond Healthcare appeared first on St. Luke's School.

How a St. Luke’s Romance Blossomed into Forever

Arianna Ori — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 18:35:37 +0000

Cupid Strikes Again at St. Luke's.

N
o love story is ever the same, but some just have a particular way of distinguishing themselves—especially those that started through the high school halls. Austin and Katie's journey started at St. Luke's, a school that helped mold their academic growth and would be pivotal in shaping their love for each other. It takes them from their first days as classmates to that moment when they became inseparable, reminding them that love sometimes begins where no one would expect.

When Austin and Katie met for the first time at St. Luke's, it wasn't exactly love at first sight. She was a new freshman, while Austin had already had some time to settle in at St. Luke's. They had some classes together, and they were friends, but nothing more until their junior year. As Katie relates, "We became close over time, and I think it just naturally evolved from there.

That was the beginning of their relationship, and it wasn't a whirlwind romance at first; they still were figuring out who they were. "We had no idea we'd end up engaged," Katie said. "We were still kids, and for high school, it was a serious relationship, but we had a lot of growing to do.

They can both vividly remember their first impressions of each other from those early days. Austin thought Katie was "cute and funny," while she remembers thinking he was charming but a little aloof. "I was shy and quiet, being the new kid," she said. "Austin thought I was a little distant at first, but once we started talking more, we clicked.

Undeniable, even when it took some time to let the relationship go from friend status to something deeper. Austin's first move to make it a little more than friendship came during junior year when he asked her to go to prom; there, in the euphoria of that moment, he asked her to be his girlfriend.

For many couples, it takes work to stay in touch after high school, but Austin and Katie had an edge. "Our little siblings were all good friends, so it seemed like we were always around each other, even after we graduated," she explained. The connection just continued to build, even through the separation that often challenges high school sweethearts.

Proximity wasn't everything, either. Lessons they learned during their developmental years at St. Luke's helped them weather the ups and downs of growing up together. "We learned to always be patient with each other," Katie said. "It's easy to think that you'll grow apart as you get older, but we helped each other mature and grow up together.

Her knowing of him was a maturing process as he matured. The sweet high school girl and boy couple slowly turned serious young adults—the transition was very gradual, according to "It became more serious the older we got." "We never needed a point to say this is 'it'. We know we love him and never want to be with anyone else," Katie exclaimed.

It's been a gradual development rooted in shared experiences in St. Luke's, from studying together for the ACT prep to just hanging out together outside of the school. These were the beginnings of a lifetime partnership. "Being in the same classes and sharing the same group of friends meant we spent a lot of time together," she said. "It was hard not to form a connection.

These days, with Austin and Katie planning their wedding and a future together, they find themselves back at St. Luke's almost as much as ever-supporting younger siblings, reminiscing about good times shared. "It's always fun to come back and visit the school," Katie said. "We get to relive some of those great memories, especially when we see our siblings now in the same halls we once walked together.

Looking to the future, Austin and Katie are excited about what lies ahead. “We’re both looking forward to starting our new life together and, eventually, starting a family of our own,” she shared. Their journey, from high school friends to engaged partners, has been a beautiful testament to the strength of love that grows over time.

To the young, starting-out couples, Katie has some simple yet essential advice to offer: "Always stay in communication with each other. That is the secret behind any strong relationship." Their story is, in fact, proof that high school sweethearts can make it to forever with patience, trust, and a little luck. For Austin and Katie, the shared history at St. Luke's would always be the foundation of their enduring love.

The post How a St. Luke’s Romance Blossomed into Forever appeared first on St. Luke's School.

St. Luke’s Kicks Off Hi-Q Season

Arianna Ori — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 22:12:48 +0000

These Wildcats Have Hi-Q!

T
he 2025 Hi-Q season at St. Luke’s Episcopal School started excitingly, with the school’s Hi-Q team competing against two schools: Vigor High School and Cottage Hill Christian Academy. The match, held on January 16, was a display of knowledge, quick thinking, and teamwork, setting the stage for what promises to be an intense season of academic competition.

What is Hi-Q?

The Hi-Q program assembles some of the best and brightest young minds from area schools to compete against each other in a "quiz bowl" type format. Kids compete on questions involving history, science, literature, geography, and current events. It is a rapid-fire competition, with each correct response earning the team points to make for a game testing knowledge and thinking under pressure.

Who are the Wildcats on Hi-Q?

Senior Megan McDonough, Senior William McDonough, Junior Chloe Lambert, and Junior Rishi Gupta made up St. Luke's for round one. From the beginning, this team buzzed in first with answers that not only showed an incredibly deep collection of knowledge but also reflected great strategy in their gaming style. From start to finish, St. Luke's was on top of their game, showing major teamwork and playing to each member's strengths.

As the competition entered the second round, the lineup changed. We introduced Senior Gavin Leege, Senior Zane West, Junior Mac Boone, and Junior Calista Conway to the stage. The last set of questions added a twist to the competition because they were toss-up questions that were not handed to a specific team. Each team had to rely on both their academic knowledge and their ability to stay calm under pressure.

The Season Looks Promising

St. Luke’s rallied up a lot of points in round two; however, Cottage Hill ultimately pulled ahead with a lead of 7 points. In the end, St. Luke’s ended in second place with 28 points, while Cottage Hill had 35 and Vigor had 7.

Although St. Luke’s didn’t come away with the win in this opening match, the team’s performance was a testament to their hard work and dedication. Mrs. Haynes, the Hi-Q team sponsor, expressed pride in the team’s effort, noting how the new members had stepped up in essential moments. With the first match of the season behind them, St. Luke’s Hi-Q team is already looking ahead and preparing for their next competition. The experience against Vigor and Cottage Hill provided valuable lessons, and the team’s determination to improve and continue learning is stronger than ever.

As the season rolls on, there is no doubt that St. Luke's will continue to be one of the major contenders in the Hi-Q circuit! The St. Luke's Hi-Q team will proceed further with continuing to represent their school with pride and determination, facing new challenges and opponents during the remaining weeks. Most of all, this is just the start of the season, and better things are in store.

The post St. Luke’s Kicks Off Hi-Q Season appeared first on St. Luke's School.

Three Trail Maids Chosen from St. Luke’s

Armahni Coleman — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 18:45:06 +0000

Congratulations to St. Luke's Trail Maids.

I
t's history in the making! For the first time in school history, St. Luke’s Episcopal School is incredibly excited to have not one, not two, but three students selected as Azalea Trail Maids: Caroline Hooper, Maddie Banks, and Ahja Wilder! The Azalea Trail Maids, a prestigious group of 50 senior girls, have proudly served as official goodwill ambassadors for the city of Mobile, Alabama, since 1949, embodying grace, poise, and southern charm. This year, Caroline, Maddie, and Ahja are making St. Luke’s history by joining this elite group, representing both their school and the city with honor and pride. Their selection is a reflection of their hard work, leadership, and dedication, and St. Luke’s couldn’t be more thrilled to see these outstanding young women shine in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

Caroline Hooper is proud to represent her school and the city of Mobile as a new peach Azalea Trail Maid. She has embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm, dedicating herself to learning about both local and international aspects of Mobile's rich history and culture. Caroline is already enjoying the experience, eager for the new friendships and memories she will create throughout the year. As an Azalea Trail Maid, she looks forward to developing her leadership skills and becoming even more engaged with her community, all while showcasing the beauty and traditions of Mobile.

Maddie Banks is thrilled to be selected as an Azalea Trail Maid, proudly representing her school, St. Luke’s, alongside two other exceptional young women. As part of this prestigious group of 50 senior girls, she is excited to serve as a goodwill ambassador for the city of Mobile, Alabama, a role that has been a dream of hers since childhood. Maddie is grateful for the support of her friends and family, who helped her reach this milestone. She is already enjoying the experience of meeting inspiring young women and looks forward to building meaningful connections and making a positive impact on her community. Maddie admires the poise, kindness, and grace of the Azalea Trail Maids and hopes to inspire other young girls to pursue their dreams, all while proudly wearing her lavender dress as a symbol of this new chapter in her life.

Ahja Wilder is thrilled to be selected as a green Azalea Trail Maid, a role she has always dreamed of and worked hard to achieve. Excited beyond words, Ahja feels incredibly blessed to have this opportunity, knowing that many girls aspire to be in her shoes. She is eager to make the most of this experience, forming new friendships and creating lasting memories along the way. With a deep sense of pride, Ahja hopes to be a role model for younger girls who, like her, aspire to become an Azalea Trail Maid. Through her journey, she looks forward to embodying the grace and leadership that the Trail Maids represent, while honoring the hard work that brought her here.

The post Three Trail Maids Chosen from St. Luke’s appeared first on St. Luke's School.

Abel, Smith Named to AHSVCA All-State First Team

St. Luke's Staff Writers — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 20:51:49 +0000

Cami Abel, Amelia Smith Named First Team All-State Volleyball.

Amelia Smith #9

Outside Hitter

Amelia Smith is a member of the class of 2026 and two-time AHSVCA All-State. Amelia dominated the 2024 season with 604 kills. She is ranked 49th nationally, 7th in the state (AHSAA), and 2nd in AL division 3A in kills. In 2024, Smith was named AL.com Player of the Week - Week 5, AVCA Phenom Watchlist, and AL.com Volleyball Newcomer of the Year.

Cami Abel #10

Libero

Cami Abel is a member of the class of 2025 and Wildcat volleyball co-captain. Cami leads 3A-Area 1 in digs, 2nd in AL 3A, 7th in the state, and 61st nationally. In 2024, Abel competed in the AHSAA North-South All-Star volleyball game, was named to the AVCA Phenom Watchlist, and AVCA Preseason Watchlist.

In addition to volleyball, Cami plays varsity soccer for the Wildcats, is a member of National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta math honor society, Rho Kappa history honor society, Key Club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

The post Abel, Smith Named to AHSVCA All-State First Team appeared first on St. Luke's School.

St. Luke’s Celebrates 2024 National Hispanic Heritage Month

Madisen Gabel — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 17:22:51 +0000

Spotlight on Dr. Nailet Cobas-Fiffe.

N
ational Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15 each year. This month-long observance highlights the significant contributions of Hispanic Americans to the history and culture of the United States. As a nation often referred to as a melting pot, the U.S. embraces a rich tapestry of cultures and ethnicities.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Hispanic Americans constitute 19% of the U.S. population, amounting to more than 62 million individuals. They were the second-fastest growing ethnic population in the United States between the last two census dates (2010 and 2020), according to Pew Research.

One inspiring figure in our community is Dr. Nailet Cobas-Fiffe, St. Luke's newest Spanish teacher. Originally from Cuba, Dr. Cobas has a remarkable background in dentistry and education.

Her Journey:

Dr. Cobas earned her dental degree from the Medical Sciences University of Guantánamo in Cuba, completing her training at the General Hospital and University Clinic of Baracoa. Her extensive education included diverse experiences in specialties such as endodontics, pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, and oral and maxillofacial surgery. “I studied for seven years and gained experience in various dental procedures, which is one of my greatest passions,” she reflects.

A Passion for Teaching:

Dr. Cobas has seamlessly transitioned from dentistry to teaching, sharing her knowledge and passion for the Spanish language. “Teaching has always been a passion of mine, and St. Luke’s provided the perfect opportunity to pursue it,” she says. In addition to teaching Spanish I and II, she appreciates St. Luke’s commitment to education from a Christian perspective and its one-of-a-kind Biomedical Sciences program.

When discussing her move to the U.S., Dr. Cobas emphasizes the challenges and rewards of adapting to a new culture. “Transitions can be tough. My home country is very different in terms of culture, traditions, and even climate,” she explains. The language barrier has been one of her biggest challenges, but she views this experience as a way to develop tools that will help her students learn.

One of the biggest challenges has been the language. I’m still learning, but this process has given me valuable tools to help others learn as well
Dr. Cobas

As a dedicated educator, Dr. Cobas is excited to teach St. Luke's students. “I’m most excited about sharing my culture and language with my students while also learning from them,” she says.

Her journey from dentist to teacher is not just impressive—it’s inspiring. Dr. Cobas is truly incredible and her story is very impressive and inspiring. She will be an inspiration to all her students and her students have an amazing opportunity to learn and grow with her.

As we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s honor the achievements of individuals like Dr. Nailet Cobas-Fiffe, who embody the strength and diversity of the Hispanic community. Join us in recognizing and appreciating the invaluable contributions of Hispanic Americans throughout history and into the future.

The post St. Luke’s Celebrates 2024 National Hispanic Heritage Month appeared first on St. Luke's School.

Faith Tradition and Episcopal Legacy at St. Luke’s

Arianna Ori — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 14:32:00 +0000

Faith, Legacy, and Episcopal Tradition.

St. Luke's Chaplain Reflects on the Journey to Her Calling

A
young girl stands in a church sanctuary, surrounded by beautiful stained-glass windows, and a high domed ceiling. She was born into a legacy of shepherds, and standing in this familiar space, the young girl can see the deep roots of tradition in the hard wood pews and hear the call to her future wafting from the pipe organ. This was a beautiful and sacred space for worship. Young Mary Alice Mathison began her journey into ministry that day, even if she couldn’t fully articulate it. The combination of worship and the reminder of God’s love sustained her when the road looked more like the curved veins of the marble altar than a straight path.

As a young student, Mary Alice grew up Episcopalian and both of her grandfathers and dad served as priests. Growing up at Episcopal Day School until 8th grade meant she was involved with Vacation Bible School, choir, acolyting during services, youth group, Camp Beckwith, and even preaching during her junior year at Christ Church Parish.

Despite her church involvement, difficult questions lingered. Mary Alice felt that not every tradition out there had the message that Jesus loved us no matter what and had small questions or doubts about God. She felt as if the universe, Jesus, or the Church might not be able to handle her doubts. Mary Alice worried that she wasn’t the perfect leader in her church, but now she has expanded her vision and knows that many people feel that way and many people wonder the same things that she did when she was younger. Mary Alice said, “It’s taken a long time, and going through a lot of different experiences, and being willing to sometimes get things wrong or come up short, but now I know doubts and questions of all varieties are pretty normal, and that doesn’t make anyone less Christian or anyone less loved by God.” She wants everyone to know that they are loved by God, doubts or not. This ultimately helped Mary Alice decide that she wanted to go into ministry.

Mary Alice initiated a conversation about discernment for ordination with a church priest, which helped her pay attention to her soul and be open to God's surprises in the future. After graduating high school, Mary Alice decided to attend Sewanee: The University of the South. Mary Alice double majored in History and Political Science and enjoyed a liberal arts approach to college, which emphasized forming the whole person as a student, athlete, and young adult. She was encouraged to think critically about the world, make friends, and take classes that she enjoyed. College is often associated with a job and financial stability, but Mary Alice discovered that it is about enjoying life and discovering new things, not being trapped within the world's expectations. She advises others to remember that college is just the next step, be open to discovering new things, and take breaks. Mary Alice says that it’s okay to change your mind, take breaks, and forge your path, regardless of others' advice. Celebrating differences is important in life.

When Mary Alice first started at St. Luke’s, she introduced a eucharist chapel for every first chapel of the month. Her reasoning for introducing this new tradition to St. Luke’s is that the Episcopal Church transitioned from Morning Prayer to Holy Eucharist in the 1970s, and for nearly 50 years, it has been the weekly Sunday service. As an Episcopal school, Mary Alice aims to introduce this tradition as a means of worship for the community. "Eucharist" means "thanksgiving," and she hopes to celebrate God's inward and spiritual grace through this sacrament. The Episcopal doctrine allows all baptized Christians to receive communion, regardless of their denomination, church attendance, or beliefs. However, anyone can come forward to receive a blessing if they choose. As the school has students and faculty from diverse backgrounds, she wants all chapel services to aim to create sacred spaces for community gratitude, reflection, and worship. Mary Alice also invites students to learn about its roots and emphasizes that this is just one way of approaching faith, not the only way people can approach faith or God. Mary Alice believes the eucharist at St. Luke's is crucial for students, faculty, staff, and families to know that they have a place to start and be welcomed in a faith community, ensuring they have a reliable source of support in case of future connections. Everyone is invited to the altar, and if they come forward with a heart open to God, the rest will work itself out. The intent of the heart is most important.

Her vision for chapel at St. Luke's in the future includes incorporating students' artwork into chapel and having more students consider giving chapel talks. Learning to talk about faith, questions, and stories of God's mystery and love brings hope to the world. Chapel invites everyone to be open to something bigger than themselves, learn something new, and reflect on their call to live in this world, especially with neighbors and enemies. It reminds us that God loves us, is with us, and will never leave us.

The post Faith Tradition and Episcopal Legacy at St. Luke’s appeared first on St. Luke's School.