IF NOT US, WHO? IF NOT NOW, WHEN? Variations of these words are attributed to numerous people over time going back all the way to Hillel the Elder. Hillel is a significant figure in Judaism and one of the most famous sages of the Talmud. Rabbinical scholars believe that Jesus of Nazareth was likely familiar with some of his teachings. … Read More
The Origami Art of Eric C. CRSM ’23
Eric is a rising sophomore. His interest in Origami began when, as a six year old, he folded his first Origami crane. He has since completed many pieces of varying complexity with subjects ranging from penguins to Pokemon characters. Eric submitted his piece titled, “Swan” to the April student art show (CristoArt2020) which unfortunately was cancelled due to the pandemic. … Read More
“A Long and Winding Road”: An Interview with Rogerr Oliva
I talked with Rogerr (CRSM ’13 NIU ’19) from his office at home in Gurnee, IL. His journey to graduation from Northern Illinois University involved enough twists, turns and detours to discourage any driver. But Rogerr (yes, two Rs) is not like most. His gracious and unassuming attitude comes through immediately, as does his intellect. The course of his academic … Read More
May President’s Pen: How are things going with Cristo Rey St. Martin?
“How are things going with Cristo Rey St. Martin?” In these pandemic times that seemingly simple question is really quite complex. A whole lot is going on right now, some of it heartbreaking, but much of it inspiring and hopeful. Let’s start with our families. About 1/3 of our parents lost their jobs in the first couple weeks of lockdown. … Read More
“Resilient, Adaptable and Determined”: An Interview with Jessena Fields
I talked with Jessena (CRSM ’15 SIU ’19) as she was beginning her exit from Carbondale, IL after her recent graduation from Southern Illinois University. Heading toward Houston, her plans include growing her successful on-line business, eventually reopening her hair and clothing boutique and getting her master’s in marketing. After speaking with her I came away knowing I spoke with … Read More
Student Work
Every fall, English IV students spend a significant amount of time choosing and researching a social problem, exploring all the facets of the issue and ultimately proposing a solution. Then COVID-19 happened. All students were suddenly required to do the brainstorming, research, writing, and revising within the confines of e-learning. These two authors took inspiration from the history we are … Read More
“Checking back”: An Interview with Kevin Castro
I caught up with Kevin (CRSM ’13, Connecticut College ’17) shortly after he recorded a speech that played during Cristo Rey’s recent fundraiser. You might also recognize him from an Alumni Spotlight he did several years ago. I decided to check back in with him and hear about what he’s been up to since that last interview. The following … Read More
Student Work
Omar is a sophomore. He wrote this essay responding to his teacher’s prompt: Does the current situation with COVID-19 change your desire to work in the field of medicine? An essay assignment by Omar (CRSM ’23) During the early to middle weeks of January, I began following COVID-19. Around those weeks the virus was fairly new and there were no … Read More
April President’s Pen: We all have an invisible string that connects us, even when we’re far apart.
“Consult not your fears, but your hopes and dreams. Think not about your frustrations, but about your unfulfilled potential. Concern yourself not with what you tried and failed in, but with what it is still possible for you to do.” The words of Pope John XXIII ring truer today than ever before. We have hope; we have a future. For now, … Read More
College Counseling Working Overtime
Hello, we hope everyone is OK. Currently the College Counseling Department is meeting with students one-on-one using video-conferencing. Our seniors are facing special challenges during this time of uncertainty, having to complete their last year in high school while deciding on what college they should attend. Seniors are looking for award letters, completing verification forms if it applies to them, … Read More