By Erika Anderson

Staff Writer

ATLANTA--Celebrating their seniority, the eighth-graders of the archdiocese participated in the annual Archdiocesan Eighth Grade Mass hosted by St. Jude the Apostle School on Jan. 28.

A representative from each school processed into the church holding a candle decorated with his school colors while the congregation sang, "Go Light Your World," the theme of the Mass.

Each of the over 500 students who attended the Mass brought a canned good which was decorated to look like a candle. The students then completed a statement printed on the construction paper wrapped cans that read, "We are told to go light our world. These are the ways in which I can spread the light of Christ."

Msgr. Daniel O'Connor, pastor, celebrated the Mass while St. Jude students provided the music and served as the hosts and hostesses. Students from the other schools read the Scriptures and brought up the gifts.

In his homily Msgr. O'Connor recounted the history of the schools of the archdiocese.

"It's interesting to see how the schools started in the archdiocese, and where they are going," he said.

He encouraged the students to research and report upon the history of their schools so that they would be aware of how far the schools have come. He said that Catholic schools will always be necessary.

"There are always going to be Catholic schools," Msgr. O'Connor said. "We want and need schools...at this Mass we pray for the future of our schools."

Barbara Poole, principal of St. Jude, told the students to remember the theme of the Mass.

"You are all very important...I hope each of you will remember the theme of our Mass---Go Light Your World," Poole said. "Service needs to begin in the family and in the classroom...I look forward to seeing each of you make a difference in the world."

Dr. Sandra Smith, superintendent of schools, told the students that their Catholic education made them special.

"Having received an education of academic excellence, having developed moral values through worship and religious instruction, and having developed a sense of community and care for others, you are prepared to continue your journey," Smith said. "You will continue the process of becoming--becoming the person that your foundation has prepared you to become."