On November 26th, Billings Catholic Schools students, staff, alumni, and community members gathered at the Ralph Nelles Center at Billings Central Catholic High School for the annual Thanksgiving All-System Mass. Mass was presided over by Fr. Steve Zabrocki of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, with other local priests serving at the altar. The Mass was filled with familiar music traditionally sung at all-system Masses, and students of all ages assisted in ministries as lectors, gift-bearers, and extraordinary ministers.
Lumen Christi coordinator and freshman theology teacher Krista Wahl, who helped plan the Mass, felt that the music was paramount to having a celebration in which all attending felt involved and engaged. “The best thing about All-System Mass is that students from all buildings participate in the liturgy. The song selection by Mr. Martinson and Moses really plays an important part in the celebration,” Wahl stated. The event also allowed fifth graders to meet their upperclassmen high school KCK buddies for the first time in person, enhancing the exciting day’s element of connection between students from different grades.
The gathering allowed alumni and BCS supporters to join together with the students they so generously uphold with their donations of time and treasure. “Because we have so many wonderful parents, donors, and benefactors that want to celebrate with us that day, we want to make it accessible for all. Creating a space in the BCCHS gym conducive for worship is a must,” Wahl commented. Students were also able to see how many people pour out themselves to make their private and Catholic education possible and accessible, with the area parishes offering their annual check to support students seeking to attend a Catholic school in Billings.
While all-system Masses have become a biannual routine for long-time students and staff, their importance and significance are never lost on attendees because of the special atmosphere of thanksgiving and fellowship created in the BCCHS gym.
