St. Augustine School Welcomes Cardinal Archbishop O'Malley for James D. Doherty Centennial Gymnasium Dedication and First Friday Mass

His Eminence Cardinal Archbishop Seán Patrick O’Malley (OFMCap) will visit Andover this Friday, December 5th in support of St. Augustine School, which this year celebrates its 100th anniversary. In addition to leading First Friday mass for St. Augustine School students, parents and parishioners of St. Augustine Church, Cardinal O’Malley will also conduct a dedication ceremony and blessing of the cornerstone for St. Augustine School’s recently constructed James D. Doherty Centennial Gymnasium.

For the last 15 months, St. Augustine School—an historic and recognizable downtown Andover landmark-- has been commemorating its milestone birthday through monthly events and fundraising to further build-out its historic footprint in Andover with the addition of the James D. Doherty Centennial Gymnasium. The special visit from the spiritual leader of the Archdiocese of Boston earmarks the culmination of a year-long celebration for St. Augustine School and the Andover community, whose residents and families have supported the school and parish for many years. To date, more than $1.2 million has been raised towards the gym construction—although fundraising continues in an effort to achieve the goal of $2.9 million. Those interested in donating can do so by visiting the Centennial Celebration website at www.sas100.org.

WHERE: 26 Central Street (St. Augustine Elementary School - James D. Doherty Centennial Gymnasium Dedication Ceremony); 43 Essex St. Andover, MA (St. Augustine Church - First Friday Mass)

WHEN: Friday, December 5, 2014; Dedication Ceremony (St. Augustine Elementary School) 9:30 a.m.; First Friday Mass (St. Augustine Church) 10:30 a.m.

Founded in 1914 by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, Saint Augustine School (26 Central Street Andover, Mass.) provides a high-quality Catholic education to children Nursery through Grade 8 within an environment supporting, encouraging and nurturing spiritual, intellectual, social and personal growth. St. Augustine School celebrates its strong Catholic identity, promotes academic excellence and fosters respect and justice for all individuals. Through its dedicated group of educators committed to teaching and learning in the Catholic tradition, St. Augustine School recognizes the unique gifts in each child and remains committed to helping each child reach their full academic, social and physical potential. For more information visit St. Augustine School at: www.saintaugustineandover.org.