| Hannah Wiand | Campus Minister, St. Petersburg Catholic High School

Catholic Days at the Capitol Provides Insights for Students

Eleven students and two chaperones from St. Petersburg Catholic High School attended Catholic Days at the Capitol for the first time this year.

This event, occurring each year during the Florida legislative season, gathers Catholics from across the state to bring the Catholic values and insights to the forefront for both the public and state legislators. Participants advocate for the dignity, protection, and sanctity of human life and aim to help lawmakers shape legislation for the good of all.

Throughout their time in Tallahassee, students were educated on current issues regarding the dignity of the human person. Through the education they received, they gained greater awareness regarding issues that are affecting people throughout our state, many of which they were unaware of before. The students were given the opportunity to talk to state legislators and representatives about these issues, seeking to better understand where the legislators and representatives stand regarding the specific issues.  

These meetings were both insightful and formative. They gave students an opportunity to experience the reality that our faith is an integral part of everything that we do: whether in politics, academic endeavors, athletic opportunities, or future careers.  

Our time concluded with the Red Mass that was celebrated by the Bishops of Florida. The Red Mass is celebrated annually for those who work in the legislative, judicial, and executive branches of government and asks for the Holy Spirit to guide these men and women.

This Mass was eye-opening for our students, as they were able to witness the large gathering of fellow students, politicians, and other members of the lay faithful present to pray for our state and for our country. We were honored to be able to witness to the Gospel in this unique way.