On June 2,. Allentown Central Catholic High School had its Baccalaureate Mass at St. Thomas More, followed by graduation ceremonies the next evening, June 3, in Rockne Hall.

The Class of 2016 listened to the speeches of Valedictorian Carissa Walkosak and Salutatorian Kate Arner, grateful for the past four years but looking forward to the future.

June 9 was the last day of school for underclassmen. Almost as soon as the students left the building, work began on renovating Rockne Hall and installing new science labs. Generous donations and grants have made these updates possible and the renovations will have a large impact on the next school year and beyond.

A group of ACCHS students and chaperones, as well as members of Campus Ministry, traveled to Italy on a pilgrimage trip. They are visiting Rome, Assisi, Pompeii, the Vatican and many other sights and cities in between.

ACCHS organizes this trip every other year, alternating with a pilgrimage trip to Spain. The experience is meant to combine the best parts of tourism and a spiritual journey.

On Aug. 5 Central Catholic’s Red Cross Club will be host a summer blood drive in memory of Alayna Velez to help other victims of tragic accidents.

The drive will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will include complimentary baked goods. If you are able to donate blood for a great cause or would like more information, contact oliviadeller@yahoo.com.