Cultural heritage celebrated at St. John Vianney
St. John Vianney Parish in Orlando marked its annual Heritage Mass on April 22, as third-grade students dressed in traditional clothing and carried flags representing their diverse backgrounds. The event was concelebrated by Bishop John Noonan, Father Francisco Ojeda, and Father Romil Aperocho.
The Heritage Mass highlighted the multicultural identity of the parish and school community. Students participated by reading, singing, and praying in multiple languages during the service.
Before the Mass began, Gloria Del Orbe, principal of St. John Vianney Catholic School, described how diversity shapes the school environment. “We see our differences as blessings that enrich our school and parish community,” Del Orbe said. “Let our hearts be filled with emotions of love, empowerment, and gratitude as we continue to build our school and parish where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and loved — a community that truly reflects the heart of Christ.”
During his homily delivered in both English and Spanish, Bishop Noonan reflected on his own upbringing in a bilingual household speaking English and Gaelic. He addressed those gathered with a message about faith: “God is love. … When you have God with you, your heart is always full of love.”
At the close of Mass, Bishop Noonan blessed a Peace Pole donated by the Lady Poverty Fraternity of Secular Franciscans to the school. Kathy Ramsey from Lady Poverty Fraternity explained that it features “peace and good” written in ten different languages spoken by students at St. John Vianney.
The Diocese of Orlando was established in 1968 and includes 79 parishes along with schools across several counties; it is currently led by Bishop James Noonan according to the Diocese.
The celebration underscored ongoing efforts within local Catholic communities to foster inclusion through shared traditions.
