​Central Catholic Welcomes Class of 2021 with Day of Recollection

On Tuesday, Sept. 19, Lasallian Ministry welcomed 212 freshmen to Central Catholic with the annual Freshmen Day of Recollection. For the past several years, the Freshmen Day of Recollection has served as a way to introduce freshmen to the concept of "Together and by Association," from the teachings of Saint John Baptist de La Salle.

Throughout the day, students participate in a series of activities to reflect on their values, sharpen communication skills and build friendships. Deacon Greg Jelinek provided an introduction to the Lasallian charism and what makes Central Catholic different from other high schools. Students take time to reflect on their life and what their values are built upon, and how they can use those values to become Men of Faith, Scholarship and Service.

"The Freshmen Day of Recollection is an important first step for all of the freshmen on their Central journey," said Kyle Goldcamp, Director of Lasallian Ministry. "They are challenged to think on a deeper level about what it means to be a Man of Faith, Scholarship, and Service. The day helps them forge their own path, and figure out ways to leave their mark on Central."

To end the day, the students write a letter to their future selves, to be shared with them during their Senior Day of Recollection. The Class of 2018 will receive their letters from their former selves during their Senior Day of Recollection on October 10.

56 seniors, or "Big Brothers," assisted with the day's activities. These seniors are part of the "My Brother's Keeper" program, where they serve as mentors to freshmen throughout the year. Each year, roughly 100 students apply for these positions, with around 50 being chosen to mentor and serve as role models for the incoming freshmen.

In addition to the Freshmen Day of Recollection, seniors in the "My Brother's Keeper" program meet with freshmen in small groups every Wednesday during homeroom.