Our Lady of the Way celebrates 25th birthday

By Ken Johnston
Editor

Last Wednesday was a special day in Stratton. Our Lady of the Way School celebrated its 25th Anniversary!
While Catholic education has been around the area for about 112 years, Our Lady of the Way was officially opened in September of 1987.
Prior to that there were two school houses in Pinewood and Stratton. Stratton held the primary grades and Pinewood the senior grades. Rainy River also had a Catholic school, St. Michaels, but it was closed in the 1980s. Once Our Lady of the Way was opened all Catholic education in the area was taught at OLWS.
Celebrations included the schools current 15 students, current staff, past staff and many members of the communities served by OLWS.
Father Alan Albao conducted a Eucharist Mass. “We celebrate the Eucharist Mass because it means Thanksgiving. We thank the Lord for this school and pray that it continues its presence here,” said Albao.
Albao praised the staff of today and past for their dedication. “This catholic school brings faith to the students as well as a quality education.”
He compared their efforts in teaching the faith to shining a light unto the students and ultimately to the world. “Light is good. Catholic schools are called to be the light of the world.”
Students participated in the mass through doing readings and also singing songs to those present.
Father Albao also held a Commissioning Ceremony for the schools staff as well. “Staff you are entrusted with the task of nurturing and instructing the students. Practise what you teach.” Albao lit a candle, again using he symbol of light, lit Principal Darlene Rousseau’s candle who then lit the rest of the staff’s candles.
A special power point trip through memory lane was held by current teacher Nicole Wood. Wood attended school in Pinewood and Stratton and eventually OLWS. Now she is a teacher there.
Director of Education Mary-Catherine Kelly spoke to the audience of the rich history and the importance of Catholic education in the area. She noted that former OLWS Principal David Sharp is currently working on a history book celebrating Catholic education in the area. “It will be released during Catholic Education Week in May of 2013,” said Kelly.
After the formal mass and presentations, the audience was invited to have birthday cake and refreshments. They also were able to see many newspaper clippings and scrapbooks on display.