Links
~Cardinal Sean's Blog message about the event.
~The Boston Pilot article
~The Boston Pilot Editorial by Thomas P. O'Neill III

 CARDINAL SEÁN P. O’MALLEY AND CRISTO REY NETWORK
CELEBRATE SUCCESS OF URBAN CATHOLIC EDUCATION

On the Feast of the Epiphany, Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley joined with representatives of the Cristo Rey Network - including students from Notre Dame and North Cambridge Catholic High Schools - to recognize the wonderful achievements of the network in Massachusetts.  The Cardinal was joined by Father John P. Foley, SJ – national Board Chairman of the Cristo Rey Network, former Massachusetts Lt. Governor Thomas P. O’Neill III - NCCHS Board Chair, as well as other Board members and members of the business and philanthropic communities in recognition of the Network’s success in education.

Cardinal Seán said, “The Cristo Rey Network is bringing hope to young people who seek to achieve academic and professional success.  Catholic education and sound personal formation of students has always been priority for the Church; we are blessed to have the support of so many people in our community who share the commitment to provide opportunities for our youth.  We pray for the continued success of North Cambridge Catholic High School and Notre Dame High School as they witness the love of God to all whom they serve.”

“I can't think of a more effective way for businesses to play a lead role in educating urban youth. Cristo Rey’s Corporate Work Study Program opens up doors that are not otherwise available to these young men and women,” said Thomas P. O’Neill III - an alumnus and board chair of North Cambridge Catholic High School, which became part of the Cristo Rey Network in 2004. “At the same time, businesses are investing in their own success by employing enthusiastic hard-working youth who are capable of making significant contributions to the workplace. It's a win-win situation."
 
“The Cristo Rey Network is very pleased to be serving the Archdiocese of Boston in two different schools”, said Fr. Foley.  “We trust that our schools will really make a difference in the lives of thousands of young men and women, as has happened in other cities across this country.  Our center-city students have much untapped talent and they only need a chance to develop it.  We are grateful for all the support we have found in Boston!”

Fr. Foley is a recent recipient of the Presidential Citizens Medal, established in November 1969 to recognize U.S. citizens who have performed exemplary deeds of service for the nation. The White House notes that it is one of the highest honors the President can confer upon a civilian, second only to the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Sr. Mary Murphy SND, PhD., President and Lourdes Ramos, a senior at Notre Dame High School, both spoke at the event.