The Joy of Faith

This year, Celebrating the World Week is all about JOY! Each day highlights a unique theme centered around joy, offering us an opportunity to reflect, connect and celebrate together. We’re excited to share daily blog posts from members of our community. Each post will explore the day’s joyful focus, offering personal insights, stories and inspiration to help us all embrace the spirit of joy.

We invite you to follow along as we celebrate what makes our community vibrant, connected and joyful! 

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By EC Religious Studies Teacher Gary Hortsch, EdD

I am deeply privileged to journey with young people as they navigate their path through high school. I especially find joy in teaching ninth graders. Their energy, curiosity and capacity for growth make every year a rewarding experience. Here are ten reasons why my classroom is a source of joy year after year:

1.  New Beginnings
Every student arrives with the anticipation of starting an adventure. It’s inspiring to witness their enthusiasm and potential as they step into this transformative stage of their lives.

2.  EC Culture
In Religious Studies, we examine our school’s Touchstones and reflect on who we aspire to be as a school community. These conversations help students connect with our shared values and mission.

3.  Spirit
Together, we learn and sing the school fight song during a fun and spirited competition. The energy is contagious, and even the Deans of Students occasionally join in as guest judges, making the experience unforgettable.

4.  Mass of the Holy Spirit
We explore the importance of the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. All school Masses offer a beautiful opportunity to unite in prayer and reflect as a community.

5.  “This I Believe”
Through sharing personal stories of experience and wisdom, students build trust and a deeper sense of community. These moments of connection are truly special.

6.  Our Patron Saint
By learning about Saint Francis (and Saint Clare), students reflect on their stories and consider their relevance and inspiration for our school community.

7.  Seminars
Thought-provoking discussions grounded in assigned readings encourage students to share insights and ideas for making the world a better place. These conversations often reveal the depth of their compassion and critical thinking.

8.  Shoeboxes of Joy
Each November, ninth graders partner with middle school students to create care packages for the homebound. This act of service fosters a spirit of generosity and community-building.

9.  Destiny Retreat
Welcoming back the juniors and seniors from their Destiny Retreat experience is a special moment. Why is this item included? For freshmen, this serves as an inspiring preview of the transformative experiences awaiting them in the years ahead.

10.  Graduation (in Four Years)
Watching students graduate and carry forward their learning, values and formation into the world and their lives beyond the Eastside Catholic campus is profoundly rewarding.

Of course, this list is only the tip of the iceberg. Joy unfolds in countless daily moments as students learn more about themselves, their faith and their role in creating a culture of goodness. Every day, I am honored to walk alongside the diverse perspectives and experiences of EC freshmen. Whether in their success or struggles, victories or defeats, hard work or moments of inspiration, I find joy in their journey.

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If you have questions about Celebrating the World week at EC, please contact Director of Equity and Social Action Jenny Abbey.