Students Attend Interfaith Prayer for Peace
Barb Dawson • March 26, 2025
Happy Belongingness Week!
Montini Catholic students proudly embraced their diversity as a school during their annual Belongingness Week (March 24-28) at the Lasallian college preparatory high school in Lombard. The celebration, sponsored by the World Language Department and Theology Department - commenced with an Interfaith Prayer for Peace Service which welcomed Father Matt Nathan (St. Pius X Catholic Parish, Lombard), Pat Gibbs (Congregation Etz Chaim, Elmhurst), Imam Hisham Al Qaisi (Islamic Foundation, Villa Park), Pastor R. Keith Beauchamp (Hope Presbyterian Church, Wheaton) and Venerable Miaowei (Fo Guang Shan Chicago Buddhist Temple).
The service was organized by Assistant Campus Minister, and World Religions teacher, Mrs. Kelly Davis, who welcomed students and speakers. "Today we gather in the spirit of unity, compassion, and hope. We are here from different faith traditions, yet united in our shared belief in peace, love, and the inherent dignity of every human being. In a world that often seems divided by differences, we stand together in the pursuit of a common goal: peace." Each year Mrs. Davis arranges educational and informative World Religions field trips with her students - this year they visited the Congregation Etz Chaim Synagogue in Elmhurst, the BAPS Hindu Temple in Bartlett and the Islamic Foundation Mosque in Villa Park. "Our goal is to provide opportunities for our students to learn and experience other cultures, races and religions. This can facilitate a better understanding of one's own beliefs and strengthen their faith."
Each speaker enlightened Montini students in regards to their various practices and prayers promoting peace.
"Let us take a moment to reflect on the unity we have shared in prayer, even though our faith traditions may differ," advised Principal Chris Tiritilli. "Through our words, thoughts, and intentions, we have come together as a community committed to peace, understanding, and respect. This gathering has been a reminder that while our beliefs may vary, our common desire for love, compassion, and justice binds us all as children of God."
Principal Tiritlli expressed his hope that the prayer service experience would inspire Montini students to continue fostering an environment of inclusivity and respect at Montini and beyond. "As we go forward, may we remember that dialogue, understanding, and empathy are powerful tools in building bridges and healing divides. Let us carry this spirit of unity in our hearts and actions, ensuring that the light of faith guides us in our daily lives, leading us to a world of greater harmony and peace. Thank you for being part of this meaningful service today."
Montini's Belongingness Week was conceptualized to promote a sense of inclusion, connection, and community among students and throughout the school. The purpose of this week is to enhance and emphasize an environment where each student feels known, accepted, valued and supported, regardless of their background, identity, or differences. Administrators and teachers provided several activities for the students to celebrate what makes them unique and special, as well as their different backgrounds, experiences and traditions.
Image above: L to R: Montini President Kevin Beirne, Imam Hisham Al Qaisi, Father Matt Nathan, Kelly Davis, Pastor R. Keith Beauchamp, Pat Gibbs, Steve Volkening, Venerable Miaowei, and Principal Chris Tiritilli
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On behalf of the Considine Family Memorial Fund , Montini Catholic proudly awarded the 2025 Colleen Helen Considine Memorial Scholarship to senior LIly Spanos. The award, given to a senior who has demonstrated impressive academic and leadership achievements along with creativity and writing talent, was presented on May 1st at the Lasallian college preparatory high school's annual Academic Awards Night, and again, in front of Montini's entire student body, during their Celebration of Excellence Awards ceremony on Friday, May 16th. Lily, who served as President of Montini's Student Government this year, was most recently named an Academic All Star and was awarded the President's Award for Academic Excellence. She is a member of Montini's National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society. She also served her fellow students as a Peer Tutor and represented Montini to potential Broncos as a Student Ambassador. Lily also received Montini's St. Pope Paul VI Award for her service to the Bronco community as a member of Peer Ministry and the Gold Academic Medal for her work as President and Exec Board member of Student Government. Athletically, Lily was a two sport athlete (golf and basketball). Her final year on the Girls Basketball Team proved to be her best, as she helped to take the Broncos to a 3A State Championship celebration, earning an All Conference selection and IBCA All State Honorable Mention honor in the process. "We couldn't be more happy for Lily," said Montini Catholic President Kevin Beirne. "From the moment she became a Bronco, she has shown herself to be a true leader with a passion participation. She will be missed here at Montini, but we can't wait to hear about her many successes beyond our doors." At the age of 33, Colleen Helen Considine's life was tragically cut short. In an effort to honor her memory, the Considine family established an annual scholarship for Montini Catholic senior girls exhibiting many of the personality and leadership qualities that Colleen possessed. Colleen's mother, Mrs. Joan Considine, was the English Department chair and faculty member for twenty-eight years at Montini Catholic. In the years prior to her death in 2015, Mrs. Considine chose the recipient of the scholarship each spring based on her experiences as a teacher with her students. Today, students hoping to receive the $2,000 scholarship are asked to submit a written essay describing an event that touched them and inspired them to pursue excellence. Of the applications received this year, Lily's best captured the essence of the award. Since its inception, over thirty talented young Bronco seniors have received this special scholarship. Lily is a graduate of St. Petronille School in Glen Ellyn and a member of St. Petronille Parish. She will be attending Dickinson College in Pennsylvania and pursuing a Business and Management degree. Image above: Lily Spanos with Colleen's niece and nephew, Maryfath Considine '27 and Peter Considine '26
Montini Catholic, on behalf of the Karl Weiger Family, announced the twelfth annual Johnathan Weiger "Johnny Always Wins" Memorial Scholarship recipient, William Howenstein, from the Bronco Class of 2028. William is a graduate of Gregory Middle School, Naperville. William received recognition from the Weiger Family at the Lasallian college preparatory high school's Celebration of Excellence Awards Ceremony on May 16th. Each year, members of Montini's incoming freshman class are invited to submit an essay in order to be considered for the scholarship. The Weiger Family selects a student displaying high moral character, a deep commitment to their faith, and achieving academic excellence at the grade school level, to receive the scholarship. William will receive a scholarship of $1,000 per year during his four years at Montini Catholic. Johnny Weiger joined Montini's school community for the 2011-12 school year as a member of the Class of 2015. He was also a member of Montini's football team with aspirations to continue his football career at Notre Dame. During Johnny's freshman year, he was diagnosed with leukemia. After undergoing chemotherapy, radiation and a bone marrow transplant, his leukemia was cured. As Johnny was preparing for his sophomore year, however, he was hospitalized with a rare blood disorder commonly referred to as TTP, which can be caused by a bone marrow transplant. He passed away on November 4, 2012 due to complications from the TTP. Throughout his battle with leukemia and TTP, Johnny displayed the spirit of a champion. He always showed great courage, fight and a deep commitment to his faith." The legacy of Johnny Weiger is celebrated every year at Montini Catholic's annual Johnny Football Game. Fans wear orange to spread awareness for those battling leukemia. Eighth grade students accepted to Montini Catholic (after taking Montini's December 6, 2025 Placement Test) will be invited to submit an application for the 2026-27 Johnny Weiger Memorial Scholarship in January of 2026. Image above: William Howenstein '28 with Karl and Fran Weiger (Johnathan's parents) and Johnathan's sister, Lauren
Montini Catholic awarded Music Director and teacher, Mr. Donnie Glowinski their prestigious Lasallian Educator Award for 2025 . The honor was presented at the Lasallian college preparatory high school's Celebration of Excellence Awards ceremony on Friday, May 16th. Each year the honor goes to a faculty member who represents Montini's Lasallian spirit of education by 'touching the hearts' of their students and colleagues. "For the past six years, Mr. Glowinski has poured his heart, energy, and talent into teaching music at Montini," said President Kevin Beirne during his presentation of the award. "With a total of thirteen years in high school education, including time spent at another Lasallian school, St. Patrick High School in Chicago, he brings both experience and deep dedication to his students and his craft." During his tenure at Montini, Mr. Glowinski has taught a wide range of courses: Concert Choir, Varsity Singers, Chamber Choir, Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Music Appreciation, and both Digital Music I and II. "But, beyond the classroom, his influence runs even deeper," said President Beirne. "He serves as a Department Chair and contributes actively to school leadership through his service on the Schedule Committee, Management Council, and Academic Advisory Committee. He is the moderator of Treble Makers and Acafellas, the advisor for the Tri-M Music Honor Society, Music and Pit Director for the Spring Musical, and Montini's Auditorium Coordinator. His commitment extends beyond the walls of the school, this past school year, he helped lead service work at two Ronald McDonald Houses with his Tri-M student members and supported a student retreat." When asked why he teaches at Montini, Mr. Glowsinski says it's because of the students. In his own words, "They touch our hearts more than we touch theirs." A perspective, says President Beirne, that makes him not only an extraordinary educator respected by all of his students, but a true Lasallian, one who teaches with compassion, humility and joy. "From directing the choir during Masses to producing three concerts per year, to singing "Blue Christmas" at our Christmas Lunchtime Karaoke event, he sets an example for all Lasallian educators." Under Mr. Glowinski's leadership Montini’s Music Program has reached new heights this year - including their recognition as the Top Catholic High School Band in the nation (National Catholic Band Association). In May, Montini's Tri-M Chapter, under his leadership, tied as the winner of the 2024-25 State Tri-M Chapter of the Year Award for Illinois for their outstanding contribution to their music program and to their community. Mr. Glowinski was acknowledged by this award for his hard work and dedication to supporting his student leaders. "Mr. Glowinski has built an inclusive, welcoming, and joyful community through music - one that uplifts every student who walks into his room," concluded President Beirne. "He is respected by his colleagues, admired by his students, and always looking for ways to support others across our school community - a true role model, and a shining example of the Lasallian charism, service, and the transformative power of education through music."
