A video featuring Father Dale Allder, assistant pastor at St. Wenceslaus School in Wahoo, has gained significant attention online after being posted by the school on social media earlier this month. The 21-second clip shows Father Allder jumping rope with students during recess while wearing a cassock, displaying agility and engaging with the children.

The video’s caption noted that Father Allder was “showing his fancy footwork,” as he jumped rope turned by students, sometimes hopping on one foot. He attributed his skills partly to “wearing the cassock and from the grace of Holy Orders!” but also mentioned that his hobby of playing “Dance Dance Revolution” contributed to his coordination.

Father Allder, who was ordained in 2021, said he enjoyed participating in activities with students. “Jumping rope with the students was joyful and fun for me,” he said. “Part of my vocation as a priest is to spread the love and joy of Jesus to everyone. That love and joy isn’t just isolated to the church building and sacraments. It can be found in every facet of life, even in something as simple as a playground game with kids. I’m happy to share that experience with others, digitally or otherwise!”

He expressed hope that viewers would see how St. Wenceslaus School focuses on more than academics for its 290 students from preschool through sixth grade: “And the upbringing we provide is more than just intellectual,” he continued. “They are loved. They are the future of the Church, and that future involves every aspect of what it means to be human and made in God’s image.”

Father Allder also wanted people to recognize that priests can have various talents: “We may have dedicated our lives for ministry and saving souls,” he said, “but we don’t discard all those gifts, talents, and interests that God has given us. In fact, He often uses those very same things for His glory and to draw people closer to Himself. I hope that my part in that fun jump rope video does that.”

Mike Weiss, principal at St. Wenceslaus School for 21 years and previously at Bishop Neumann High School nearby for 18 years, commented on clergy involvement: “Having active priests in our Catholic school serves as a visible presence of the Church,” he said, “helping maintain the Church’s influence and visibility in our community. Their involvement in our Catholic schools is not just about providing support, it is about fostering a community that values the teachings of the church and encourages the spiritual growth of the students, staff, parents and the parish.”

The school posted a link where viewers can watch the viral video on YouTube.