St. Raymond helps third-graders celebrate their First Communion

The St. Raymond School community held a special recognition for the third-grade First Communicants. The St. Raymond students who recently received this sacrament encircled the campus while each grade paraded by to wave congratulations.

Before the big event, Principal Ward presented each student with a prayer card and a sweet treat from the local Capannari's Ice Cream.

Delayed due to the pandemic, the community finally came together to celebrate the long awaited milestone. St. Raymond and the student body kept the tradition alive by honoring the Communicants.

"This was so wonderful for our children. I am glad that they could have a special day. They waited long enough," said parent Ashley Everson.

Third-grade students stood outside displaying their decorated banners during the event while their special songs played over loud speakers.

"I think this is phenomenal! The music, it brought me to tears. You guys have done a great job!" said Kendra Pollizze.

Parents at St. Raymond School are happy that their children have returned to in-person learning and are pleased with all that the teachers and administration are doing to help their children adjust to the new "norm."

"Everyone is so happy ... Even the parents are happy to see each other," said Father Gilbert Mashurano.

Principal Ward said, "We are happy to keep up our tradition of honoring our St. Raymond School communicants in this special way. We are very proud of our students and are excited that we could bring this group together as a class to celebrate."

A National 2019 Blue Ribbon School, St. Raymond, as a parish elementary school (Pre-K through eight), is an integral part of Saint Raymond de Penafort in Mount Prospect.

For information, call (847) 253-8555 or visit www.st-raymondschool.org.