Our grandson, Christopher, began his freshman year at Benedictine Military School this year. His family is proud of his accomplishments. It is an honor to be accepted into such a prestigious institution.
Founded in 1902 as a boy’s preparatory school, Benedictine likens itself to the Southern military traditions of Virginia Military Institute and The Citadel.
Each school day begins with prayer and ends with prayer. The importance of remaining focused on God and trusting in His divine guidance is the foundation that underpins each cadet.
With a deeper focus on faith and leadership, Christopher leaves behind the trappings of a “me first” society. He will learn to lead through service to others while developing the mental acuity to cope with the disappointments of life. This he will do with respect, dignity, and honor. It’s a lot to ask of an American teenager, but I know his heart; he is steadfast in his resolve.
The parallels of this teaching become obvious when reflecting on my personal beliefs. By comparison, my early spiritual training was humbler but nonetheless effective. I was blessed with a family who guided me and set examples for me to follow. When I veered off the path, it was this foundation of faith that always pulled me back.
As freshmen enter the classrooms, they are greeted with a message scribbled on an old blackboard: Stay calm and trust God. I believe it is this simple wisdom that can propel young minds to greatness. Our grandson believes it too.
“Train children in the way they should go; when they grow old, they won’t depart from it.” The Good News: If you teach your children the ways of the Lord when they are young, they will keep their faith when they grow older. – Proverbs 22:6
Author’s Notes:
Benedictine Military School is a private, all-male, Catholic college preparatory day school which forms and educates young men in grades 9-12 from diverse backgrounds, supports a deeper commitment to their faith, prepares them for life through a quality academic program, and instills leadership skills through a JROTC program, athletics, extra-curricular activities and community service. Through instruction and discipline, we seek to form men of virtue and integrity who are prepared for life-long learning and service to their faith and civic communities.
Christopher Butler – St. Patrick’s Day – 2024