On Saturday, Oct. 23, St. John Paul II Catholic High School held its 25th Anniversary Family Festival, kicking off its 25th Anniversary Year for Silver Celebration. The festival featured interactive activities, food trucks, a 2.5K fun run, live performances by JPII students, and much, much more!

The day began with the 2.5K fun run with Freddy the Falcon as the lead runner. Rather than using a traditional starter’s pistol, JPII’s Team America Rocketry Challenge team, led by faculty sponsor Brian Finzel, launched a commemorative JPII 25th year rocket to signal the start of the race. One hundred participants traversed the JPII cross country track, enjoying nature and beautiful weather. The runners and their families then enjoyed a delicious breakfast from the Knights of Columbus Council 10232, who were assisted by Knights representing Councils from across North Alabama.

Father Bryan Lowe began the opening ceremony with prayer, followed by Headmaster Dr. Jeremiah Russell who spoke briefly and offered heartfelt thanks to everyone for making it possible to recognize 25 years in Catholic education. Barbara Romei, a JPII theology teacher, spoke of the history of Catholic High School and her experiences. Closing remarks were given by Rodney Kreps, JPII Board of Trustees co-chair.

Immediately after the remarks, Kreps and the 25th Anniversary Honorary Co-Chairs, Frank and Carol Chapuran, cut the ceremonial ribbon to open the event.

Children were entertained with activities from multiple student organizations, including a scavenger hunt, creating tie-die t-shirts, “not bobbing for apples,” balloon dart painting, face painting, and other games of skill. The Alabama National Guard provided a rock-climbing wall for older students and an inflatable gladiator challenge. A variety of food trucks fed the hungry with tamales, beignets, hot dogs, sushi, and ice cream. The Lifesouth bloodmobile collected a record 36 pints of blood during the festival, reinforcing St. John Paul II’s commitment to the community.

The 25th Anniversary Year for Silver Celebration will continue with the Silver Celebration Dinner and Silent Auction on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2022, featuring celebrity chef, Father Leo Patalinghug. New sponsorships, ticket sales, and commemorative program advertisement opportunities will be announced in December 2021.

For additional event information, please contact Connie Anderson, JPII development director, at canderson@jp2falcons.org or 256.430.1760 ext. 108.