Blog

There are weeks in a school year that stand out for their energy, joy, and purpose—and this was one of them. Catholic education at Royalmont is built on the belief that formation is not just about what we teach but how we live, and this week we lived it in every hallway, classroom, and common space.

For the first time in eleven years, the world heard those ancient and electrifying words: Habemus Papam. We have a Pope. And not just any pope—Pope Leo XIV, the first American ever elected to the Chair of St. Peter.

Our students may never forget the moment they saw the white smoke rise and heard that unforgettable declaration. And honestly? Neither will I.

Why the Pope Matters to Catholic Students

From the outside, some may wonder: Why all the excitement? It’s just a man in a white robe speaking from a balcony, right?

Not for us.

For Catholics, the Pope is more than a symbol. He is the successor of St. Peter—the man Jesus personally charged with shepherding His Church. This isn’t just historical trivia. It’s a reminder of Christ’s living promise: “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church… and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:18)

So when our students stood up and cheered as the white smoke appeared, they weren’t just reacting to a news event. They were witnessing the continuity of the Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, stretching across centuries and continents right into their own lives.

In Pope Leo XIV’s first message, he opened with: “Peace be with you.” His words were not lofty or abstract. They were grounded, humble, and deeply pastoral—a clear call for healing, unity, and a return to the heart of Christ. You can read the full text here.

“We Are Royal”: A Name with a Mission

In a moment of perfect providence, our marketing team was reviewing a campaign concept just before the white smoke rose. The title? “We Are Royal.”

What began as a creative nod to Royalmont took on immediate depth. At that exact moment, it was as if God reminded us who we are—not by name only, but by identity.

To be “royal” in Christ is not about crowns or castles. It’s not the world’s version of royalty. It’s the Cross.

Christ our King wore thorns. He didn’t conquer with armies, but with mercy. His throne was wood and nails. And yet, through that sacrifice, He conquered death itself.

This is the kind of royalty we aim to form at Royalmont: servant-leaders, apostles, young men and women ready to lead not by entitlement but by example. The kind Pope Leo spoke of twelve years ago in his address to the Synod of Bishops on the new evangelization—a call to bring Christ to a world desperate for truth and hope. Watch it here.

Why We Wore White

On Friday, we ended the week with a White Out. Students came dressed in white from head to toe. It was fun, yes. But it was also intentional.

White symbolizes Easter. It’s the color of resurrection, victory, and joy.
White is papal. The Pope’s white cassock stands as a witness to purity, unity, and universal shepherding.
White is a witness. In a culture where darkness often gets the spotlight, our students were a bright, visible statement of faith.

As they filled the school, glowing in white, I couldn’t help but think—this is what Catholic education is meant to do. Form joyful, visible, confident Christians who aren’t afraid to celebrate what matters most.

Formation That Goes Beyond the Classroom

This week, we didn’t just teach Church history—we lived it. We didn’t just talk about identity—we walked it. We didn’t just point to joy—we wore it on our sleeves.

Catholic education at Royalmont isn’t confined to textbooks. It’s alive in moments like these—where mission, memory, and meaning come together.

We are Royal. Because we are His.

Learn More About How Royalmont Lives Its Catholic Mission

At Royalmont Academy, we don’t just educate—we form. Learn more about our mission as a Regnum Christi school and our four pillars of formation.
👉 royalmontacademy.org/regnum-christi-holistic-catholic-education