Celebrating 60 Years

Note:  Written from Wheeling, WV after much searching on the web. Time is limited, so this will be a slim slice.

60 years ago, the pastors from Moundsville, McMechen, Benwood and Glen Dale convinced Bishop Swint that a local high school would enable more students who could not travel to Wheeling Central Catholic to receive a Catholic Education.  The new high school was named after Bishop Donahue, a man who himself was well-educated, gregarious and sincerely interested in the education of youth.  Never intended to be a large school, at max its enrollment topped at 200 for a few years and remained at best around 150.  Just before celebrating it's 50th jubilee, enrollment had shrunk to 68 and rumors were rampant that it would have to close.  Determination, hard work, the presence of the Marist Brothers,, the kindness of Bishop Schmidt and lots of prayer kept the school going.  Just a few years ago when Bishop Bransfield endorsed the school saying he would never close it, the rumor dust settled once and for all, and enrollment has steadily been increasing.  Gathering last night for part one of the 60th celebration, alumni and friends affirmed their love and loyalty and marveled again at how "the little school that could" has now reached its 60th anniversary.   It is another testimony to the power of prayer and the power of community.  When in doubt about the efficacy of prayer, just remember Bishop Donahue High School, and keep praying.
Bro. Rene