Letter From an Editor

As a senior, I am “Priory Proud”. I am incredibly grateful for the experiences with fellow classmates and teachers I have had at Priory. Our school has a rich tradition of standing for excellence both in our academics and character. I’ve always been proud to tell anyone in our community that I attend Priory when asked where I attend school. As a leader of the school, I would like to put out a reminder to all of us. We are standing on the shoulders of generations of alums who went before us in the proud Benedictine tradition of strong character and morals. 

In accordance with Benedictine tradition and Catholic teaching, life is to be held as sacred. We fight for the unborn and those who cannot fight for themselves. We spend a lot of time talking about respect for life and diversity. We believe that black lives matter. We stand against Asian hate. We study different cultures and learn that diversity is God’s beloved gift to us. Galatians 3:28 tells us, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” 

I want to take a moment and ask that all of us stop and evaluate how we are doing in upholding these sacred values. I have noticed small things like students judging fellow classmates on what sports they choose or clubs they join – or maybe those they choose not to participate in at all. I have been a witness to far too much belittling and outright bullying of others for their personal beliefs or lifestyle choices. There’s a difference between joking and just plain being mean. And I think most of us know that. We know when we’ve crossed the line. We’re just too afraid to admit it. So, we double down and claim that we “didn’t know what we said was hurtful” when we clearly do. The Priory I know is a place where differences are embraced and celebrated. If you’re going to put someone down for having interests that are different from yours, I’m sorry, but Priory is not the place for you. We have no need for someone like you here. 

           When Jesus told us to “love one another”, there were no if’s or but’s. There were no exceptions. Whether or not you personally disagree with someone or their choices does not matter in the slightest. You are to love them as you love yourself. Period. It is time for us as a Priory community to reflect on what we hold dear – life and respect for others. Laus Tibi Domine.