The long awaited day had finally arrived, and by all accounts, September 5 was a good day for the community. Hundreds of supporters, family members, alumni, business owners, local and church officials, students, and educators gathered together for the dedication and blessing of the new Powers Catholic High School campus on Miller Road. This year, Powers moved from its Carpenter Road location to Fay Hall, formerly a residence for students of the Michigan School for the Deaf. My City Magazine has been following the progress of the school, beginning with a story in our June issue about the renovation of Fay Hall and its brand-new, high-tech addition.
Cars filled the parking lot of the new campus and excitement was in the air as a crowd gathered at the bottom of the steps of Fay Hall in anticipation of the blessing of the school. Students dressed in uniform handed out programs. “I love our new school; it’s amazing,” smiled Kylee Petersen. “It’s thrilling!” exclaimed Darlene Alderson, whose three daughters attended the Catholic school. “This is the best thing that’s happened to Flint!” The Powers Student Choir and the Knights of Columbus stood on the steps of the completely renovated, 100-year-old building, as the glass of the new addition gleamed in the early morning sunshine. “What a glorious morning!” exclaimed Early Boyea, Bishop of the Diocese of Lansing, who traveled to Flint to give the benediction.
Tom Furnas, President of the school, recognized and thanked the many people who had put their hearts into the monumental project and made it a success, including Ridgeway Construction, Tim Hermann of the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce, John Gazall, and Bishop Boyea, to name a few. “This has clearly been a work of love,” Tom said solemnly. “We would not be here without them.” “Today is a hallmark day for the future of Powers Catholic High School,” said Dave Lurvey of Ridgeway Construction. “This is the largest private development in Flint’s recent history and it was completed in a one-year time span!” he exclaimed.
When Flint Mayor Dayne Walling addressed the attendees, he spoke of the city’s gratitude. “Thank you on behalf of the city of Flint for bringing this campus back to life again,” he said. “You have Flint’s eternal gratitude. This project is a beacon of the positive spirit of renewal.”
Dr. Kathy Kirtek, President of Powers Catholic High School’s Board of Directors, presented to Bishop Boyea a key to the school, thanking him for his staunch support. Afterward, the bishop travelled through the halls and sprinkled the chapel with blessed water, pronouncing this benediction: “Lord God almighty, by your gracious favor, today we bless this building and dedicate it.” Later, mass was held in the new gymnasium. “I don’t believe in coincidences; I don’t believe in accidents,” he said. “God wanted us to be in this building!”
The dedication of Powers Catholic High School ensures another 100 years for this historic building, and a brighter, more glorious future for Flint.
PHOTOS BY TRACI TURNER
Are you interested in purchasing photos from this story? Go HERE and select the “Powers Catholic High School” category.
