Sunday, December 8, 2024, was the Feast of the Immaculate Conception and celebration of the Virgin Mary in the Catholic Church. The Pope’s Solemnity, delivered in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, coincidentally mirrored Oak Knoll’s student council theme for this year, “OK, Yes.” 

On Monday, December 9, Monsignor John J. Carroll, Pastor Emeritus at Our Lady of the Magnificat Church in Kinnelon, NJ, alluded to the same positive theme as he presided over the school’s annual Mass for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in the Mother Mary Campion Center for the Performing Arts at Oak Knoll.

“Today, on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, the Gospel tells us about one of the most important, most beautiful moments in the history of humanity: the Annunciation (Luke 26-38), when Mary’s ‘yes’ to the Archangel Gabriel permitted the Incarnation of the Son of God, Jesus,” Pope Francis joyfully declared to the gathered crowd in Rome.

Similarly, on Monday, Monsignor Carroll prayed that the Oak Knoll community would continue to turn to Mary as an example of how we might live our lives more freely, lovingly, and aware.

“Help us to learn the grace of humility and give us the courage to say yes to you, God, without always knowing where it will lead,” prayed Monsignor Carroll. “Release us from the fears that grip us and the pride and stubbornness that keeps us from you and others.”

The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is one of the most important feast days related to Mary in the Roman Catholic Church liturgy. Students in grades two to twelve, faculty, and staff join voices in song, prayer, and communion to reflect on the Virgin Mary and her Immaculate Conception. 

As we approach Christmas, this service is one of many beloved traditions during the holidays that make Oak Knoll such a cherished place for students, as well as current families and alumnae/i.

As we reflect on our first 100 years as a school grounded in Holy Child values and cross the threshold into an exciting new century, we will say “OK, Yes” to God’s plan, gifts, call to service, and open embrace.