Every year, the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB) starts the school year by having principals, vice principals, trustees and senior administrators gather together for opening Mass. This year’s Mass was especially meaningful because YCDSB alumni and newly ordained priest, Father Alvin Joys, led the celebration.
Fr. Alvin is a proud graduate of St. Stephen CES and St. Jean de Brebeuf CHS, both in Woodbridge. He is now the Associate Pastor of St. Clare of Assisi Parish, also in Woodbridge.
As he began the Mass for the new school year, Fr. Alvin joked about recognizing the faces of his former teachers in the congregation. With humility and gratitude, he expressed his joy at once again being with the YCDSB community at a celebration of the Eucharist, but this time as a priest rather than a student.
He reminded everyone that Catholic education plants a seed in the hearts of students which will grow and flourish throughout their lives. Fr. Alvin’s journey from student to priest reflects the mission of Catholic education: to form disciples of Christ who selflessly serve their communities with love and dedication.
The YCDSB community is thrilled that Fr. Alvin will be an integral member of the schools connected to St. Clare’s Parish for years to come. His story of once being a YCDSB student in Woodbridge will surely inspire a generation of students, as Fr. Alvin provides guidance and leadership to those school communities.
May God bless Fr. Alvin as he continues his priestly ministry, and may his story remind everyone of the potential that is found in every student.