In explaining his reasons for choosing  “St. Michael”  for our school, Archbishop Thomas Rodi notes that in Scripture (Rev. 12:7-12), the Archangel Michael led God’s army to defeat the forces of evil in heaven. Archbishop Rodi wants St. Michael Catholic High School to become “a school that inspires students to be leaders for good, be it in their homes, communities or churches.”

The Archbishop also points out that Archangel Michael is distinctive in that he is named in the scriptures of three of the world’s great religions--Judaism, Christianity and Islam-- and from this fact, the Archbishop indicates his desire that we become a “welcoming place for all those of other faiths who desire an excellent education, rooted in gospel values.”

 

And finally, Archbishop Rodi reminds us that “Michael” links us back to the first bishop of Mobile, Bishop Michael Portier, who led the church of Alabama and Florida from 1829-1859. We are thus reminded to be grateful for the rich legacy we have inherited from our forefathers of the diocese of Mobile and to honor their dedication, commitment and service to our Church.

The challenge to be leaders for good, to be welcoming of others, and to be grateful for all that we have received--what a wonderful commission from our founding Archbishop for St. Michael Catholic High School!