Two very special events – “Grands Day” and the Feast of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne – took place on Nov. 22 at Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart.

“Grands Day,” celebrated every other year, began with welcoming students’ grandparents and “grandfriends,” who then accompanied their students to a morning class. Next, they joined the entire Woodlands community for the annual Mass honoring the life of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne.

Empowered with a deep faith, a strong prayer life and a commitment to the ideals of Sacred Heart education, St. Philippine was the first member of the Religious Order of the Sacred Heart to come to the United States, where she established the first Sacred Heart school in North America on Sept. 14, 1818, in St. Charles, Missouri. After her 34 years of service in America, St. Philippine died on Nov. 18, 1852, at the age of 83.

“St. Rose Philippine Duchesne challenges me to face obstacles with courage, to serve others with humility and to remain faithful to God’s mission,” said Woodlands Academy House Duchesne President Rosie Graziano ’25. “She reminds us that true strength lies in perseverance and faith, even in the most difficult moments. I am excited to see how the members of House Duchesne will continue to honor her legacy through prayer, love and service.”

A reflection on St. Philippine’s life was presented by House Duchesne advisor Elliot Coffey, Woodlands Academy’s director of technology and computer science teacher.

 “I think the very first person St. Rose Philippine Duchesne would thank, would be her mentor and lifelong friend, (Society of the Sacred Heart foundress) St. Madeliene Sophie Barat. Philippine’s belief in Sophie’s vision and leadership captivated her,” Coffey said. “All her life, Philippine dreamed of reaching the native people of North America as a missionary. I think the Potawatomi people could sense her joy and her love for them. The Potawatomi gave Philippine the name “Quah-kah-Ka-num-ad” (Woman Who Prays Always). St. Rose Philippine Duchesne would want us to give thanks for the Potawatomi people and honor them on the day of her feast.”

After the Mass, Woodlands Academy students and their guests enjoyed lunch together.