Back-to-school Masses set positive tone for new school year (Photos)

Catholic schools across the Archdiocese of Newark are embracing the new academic year with a deep commitment to their spiritual foundations. As they kick off the new school year, students, families, faculty, and staff gather for Masses held at school and in local churches. In addition to offering a moment of reflection and unity, these liturgical celebrations set a hopeful tone for the months ahead.

Jersey Catholic has compiled a collection of photos capturing the vibrant back-to-school liturgies across the Archdiocese of Newark.

Back to school Mass kicks off the 2024-25 school year — Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin celebrated Mass at Oratory Prep High School in Summit. The Mass celebrated the school’s 100th anniversary and also kicking off the school year for students and staff. (Oratory Prep)

Students celebrated and also served at the first Mass of the year at Saint Peter’s Prep in Jersey City. (Saint Peter’s Prep)

Students celebrated and served at the first school Mass of the year at Saint Joseph Regional High School in Montvale. (Saint Joseph Regional High School)

Students read scripture at the first liturgy of the year at Holy Trinity School in Westfield. Additionally, other students served at the altar and cantored during the Mass. (Holy Trinity School)

Students, families, and staff at the Academy of Our Lady in Glen Rock gathered for Mass on Sept. 11. (Academy of Our Lady)

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Faculty and staff at the Academy of St. Paul in Ramsey gathered to celebrate Mass as they prepared to welcome students back to school. (Academy of St. Paul)

Students celebrated Mass at Don Bosco Prep in Ramsey to kick off the 2024-25 school year. (Don Bosco Prep)

Students celebrated the liturgy for Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child’s centennial anniversary and the new school year at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark. (Our Lady of Czestochowa School)

Students celebrated the first Mass of the year at Our Lady of Mercy Academy in Park Ridge. (Our Lady of Mercy Academy)

Students celebrated the first Mass of the year at Saint Thomas the Apostle School in Bloomfield. Additionally, students served at the altar and presented the gifts. (Saint Thomas the Apostle School)

Students celebrated the first school-wide liturgy of the year at St. Elizabeth School in Wyckoff.

Featured Image: Students celebrated and also served at the first school Mass of the year at Immaculate Heart Academy on Montclair. (Immaculate Heart Academy)