St. Joseph School Faculty & Staff Begin the School Year United in Faith
August 3, 2026
As we prepare to welcome our students for another exciting school year, the faculty and staff of St. Joseph School gathered on Friday for a meaningful day of prayer, reflection, and fellowship during our annual religious retreat.
The day began with the celebration of the Holy Mass, presided over by Father Apolinario Ty. In his homily, Father Ty reminded us of the sacred vocation of Catholic educators. He encouraged our teachers and staff to recognize that they are more than educators—they are faithful stewards entrusted with helping to mold and shape the hearts, minds, and spirits of our students to live as Christ calls us to live. His message served as a powerful reminder that every classroom is a place where faith is nurtured, character is formed, and God's love is made visible.
Following Mass, our retreat continued with an inspiring reflection led by Deacon Raffy Mendoza, St. Joseph School's Business Office Manager and Diocesan Representative. Using the initials SJS, Deacon Raffy shared a meaningful framework that reflects who we are as a school community and the values we strive to embody each day:
S – Solitude in Christ: Rooting ourselves in prayer and seeking God's presence in all that we do.
J – Joining Hearts Together in Faith: United in purpose, we work together as one school family to serve our students and one another.
S – Service: Love in action that creates a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.
These reflections reminded us that our mission extends far beyond academics. As a Catholic school, we are called to cultivate a community grounded in faith, united in love, and dedicated to serving others with compassion and purpose.
The retreat concluded with a special time of fellowship over homemade watercress soup prepared by the Kipapa family. The fresh watercress, harvested from the pristine waters of Punahoa Forestry at the Olaʻa Springs, made for a delicious and meaningful meal that reflected the warmth and generosity of our St. Joseph School ʻohana.
As we begin this new school year, we pray that the Good Lord will continue to bless our faculty and staff with wisdom, strength, and joyful hearts. May they be instruments of Christ's love and become a blessing to every student and family they are called to serve.
Here's to a faith-filled and successful school year.
Go Cardinals!