Every Friday in March, the oldest and youngest students at Saint Columbkille Partnership School have come together in a special collaboration. The 8th graders, in preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation, worked alongside students from the 2.9 class, fostering connections that highlight both faith and mentorship. This year marks the first time Saint Columbkille is celebrating Confirmation in 8th grade, making this partnership even more meaningful.
Together, the students have been learning about the Fruits of the Spirit in their religion classes led by their teachers, Mrs. Denise Prior and Mr. Christian Verghese. As they explored these values, the two groups worked on a collaborative project—a large tree representing the Fruits of the Spirit, symbolizing growth, faith, and community. Each 8th grader partnered with a younger student to discuss these virtues one-on-one, sharing their thoughts while working on the tree. The experience has given the older students the chance to reflect on their journey at Saint Columbkille while helping guide their younger peers in faith.
On March 21st, the 2.9 class hosted a special “Thank You” meeting to express their gratitude to their 8th-grade friends. As a token of appreciation, each younger student created a drawing and gave a small gift to their 8th-grade mentor, recognizing the kindness, patience, and time they had shared. The experience has been a full-circle moment for the 8th graders, many of whom were once in the shoes of their younger classmates. “It’s been a really great experience,” said Abby, an 8th grader who started at Saint Columbkille in Pre-K. “First of all, it’s always really great to see them because it reminds us of being that age, and it’s just been a lot of fun.”
Through this collaboration, both groups have gained valuable insights and shared meaningful moments of faith and friendship. “It’s been so much fun working together with the little kids and helping them out,” said Max, another 8th grader. Mrs. Denise Prior, the 2.9 teacher, reflected on the partnership, saying, “The 8th graders have really embraced what it means to be people for and with others. Their time with my class has been so positive. I am really grateful.” Mr. Christian Verghese, the school’s middle school Religion teacher, added "This special partnership between the 8th graders and the 2.9 students beautifully embodies Saint Columbkille's mission to joyfully seek truth, practice goodness with conviction, and contemplate beauty. By growing together in faith, mentorship, and community, the students exemplify the school's commitment to developing leaders dedicated to faith and service."