On June 2 Allentown Central Catholic High School held its Baccalaureate Mass at St. Thomas More, followed by graduation ceremonies the next evening, June 3, in Rockne Hall.

The Class of 2016 listened to the speeches of Valedictorian Carissa Walkosak and Salutatorian Kate Arner, grateful for the past four years but looking forward to the future.

June 9 is the last day of school for underclassmen. Almost as soon as the students leave the building work will begin on renovating Rockne Hall and installing new science labs. Generous donations and grants have made these updates possible and the renovations will have a large impact on the next school year and beyond.

In just one short week a group of ACCHS students and chaperones, as well as members of Campus Ministry, will travel to Italy on a pilgrimage trip. Beginning June 15, they will visit Rome, Assisi, Pompeii, the Vatican and many other sights and cities in between. ACCHS organizes this trip every other year, alternating with a pilgrimage trip to Spain. The experience is meant to combine the best parts of tourism and a spiritual journey.

On Aug. 5 Central Catholic’s Red Cross Club will be host a summer blood drive in memory of Alayna Velez to help other victims of tragic accidents. The drive will run 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will include complimentary baked goods. If you are able to donate blood for a great cause or would like more information, contact oliviadeller@yahoo.com.