More than 100 students and staff of Morning Star Catholic School in Tampa surprised Bishop Gregory Parkes with a strong show of support for the new diocesan vision,  Courageously Living Gospel.

On September 19, Bishop Parkes arrived at the school to celebrate their 60th anniversary Mass and found them all wearing  matching blue t-shirts with a call to action related to the vision: “Be courageous and strong.” This text is from 1 Corinthians 16:13, “Stand firm in the faith, be courageous, be strong.”

Parishes and schools throughout the diocese have been promoting the new mutually shared vision of the diocese through videos, posters, bulletin announcements, banners and t-shirts.

Morning Star Catholic School is celebrating its 60^th anniversary of serving students with learning disabilities and other related difficulties to succeed at their optimal level while creating readiness for growth, service and sharing God’s love in the global community.

“Morning Star School is an environment where each student’s uniqueness is valued,” said Eileen Odom, principal. “Our school provides a nurturing, supportive setting that provides opportunities for students to grow spiritually, academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.”

The school has received numerous awards, classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards and iPads and students grow herbs and vegetables in the “Unity Garden.”