January has been a busy and exciting month at STMC. While returning from Christmas break can sometimes take a little time, our community jumped right back into the rhythm of school life.

From an alumni perspective, STMC is always looking for meaningful ways to stay connected with our talented, creative, and engaged former Knights. Since the school’s inception in the 1960s, nearly 6,000 students have graduated from STMC. One of the most important ways we maintain these connections is through the many alumni events we host throughout the year.

One of our most popular traditions is the Annual Alumni Basketball Tournament, and this January we proudly hosted the 27th edition of this much-loved event. Twelve teams competed this year, with four teams in our Knights (Competitive) Division and eight teams in the Edmund Rice (Recreational/Fun) Division. As always, the tournament welcomed energetic, athletic, and not-so-athletic alumni of all ages. A special shout-out goes to the Grad 2K team, who never fail to bring the laughs and remind us that this event is all about fun and community.

Looking ahead, we are excited to announce that on February 21, we will be hosting our 2nd Annual STMC Alumni & Friends Pickleball Tournament. This event is open to participants (including current and alumni parents) of all skill levels—no experience required. If you’re looking for a fun and welcoming way to reconnect with fellow alumni and friends of STMC, this event is for you. Registration details can be found at this link: https://trellis.org/stmcalumnipickleball26

Finally, I am proud to share some exciting news from our Alumni Association. We extend our sincere gratitude to Class of 2007 graduate Ashley Grewal for her many years of dedicated service as Vice President. 2021 graduate Elizabeth Irving has stepped into her role as Vice President. Many in our community know Elizabeth as a gifted singer and performer, as well as the official Vancouver Canucks anthem singer among other things. Her passion for giving back to STMC makes her a wonderful addition to this role. Chris Boyd ’00 continues as President, alongside Alice Roder (Secretary) and Joe Thierman ’76 (Treasurer). Our Alumni Association would not be possible without the commitment and generosity of this group.

All funds raised by the Alumni Association throughout the year are proudly donated to our Bursary Program, supporting families in financial need in the true spirit of Edmund Rice.

Go Alumni!
Go Knights!

Dominic Zimmermann
Director of Alumni

Preferential Option for the Poor Week

As we begin celebrating our third Catholic Social Teaching, the Preferential Option for the Poor, our community will take part in special activities connected to this teaching throughout January and February. This focus connects beautifully with the beginning of Lent on February 18, particularly through the Lenten practice of almsgiving.

Earlier this month, Brother Hugh O’Neil shared with our staff his experiences with the Brothers and how he has witnessed this mission lived out firsthand during his time as Provincial Head. His reflections helped ground this teaching in real-world witness and service.

On Friday, January 30, our school Mass will be dedicated to the Preferential Option for the Poor, and our community will continue a special focus on this teaching throughout early February, inviting us to grow in compassion, generosity, and solidarity with those most in need.

School-Wide Confessions

As we begin our Lenten journey of prayer, reflection, and renewal, our school community will take part in School-Wide Lenten Confessions on Wednesday, March 4 and Thursday, March 5.

This is a meaningful opportunity for students to pause, reflect, and experience God’s mercy during the season of Lent.

All Grade 10 students will attend Confessions during their regularly scheduled Religion block.

Confession Schedule

Wednesday, March 4

Block D: All Grade 9 students
Block A: All Grade 8 students

Thursday, March 5

Block H: All Grade 12 students
Block E: All Grade 11 students

All Grade 10 students will attend Confessions during their regularly scheduled Religion block.

Religion Class visit to Orthodox Church

On Monday, January 26, Mr. Rogalski’s Religion 11 class had the opportunity to visit our neighbour parish, St. Michael the Archangel Eastern Orthodox Church located on Canada Way. This visit was a valuable and enriching experience for our students as they learned more about the Eastern Orthodox tradition and its deep roots in Christian history.

During the visit, students explored both the similarities and differences between the Catholic and Orthodox Churches, including shared beliefs, sacred traditions, and distinctive practices. The experience helped students better understand the richness of the wider Christian family while strengthening their appreciation for their own faith tradition.

We were warmly welcomed by the St. Michael the Archangel community, whose hospitality and openness made the visit especially meaningful. We are grateful for this opportunity to connect with our neighbours and look forward to continuing this relationship by bringing additional Religion classes to visit in the future.

Special thank you to Fr. Sinisa from the Parish. Moments like these remind us of the importance of dialogue, understanding, and unity within the Christian community.

LRC Work Opportunity

Students from the LRC are looking for work experience opportunities within the community. A staff member will be with them the whole time. If anyone has a company or knows of opportunities for us to explore, please reach out to STMC.

Expo For Life Conference

We are excited to announce the upcoming Expo Conference for Life, taking place on March 6 at St. Nicholas Parish.

This dynamic conference will bring together students from schools across the Archdiocese for a day focused on Reverence for Life, faith, learning, and community. Members of the STMC Reverence for Life Team have been actively involved in helping to organize this event alongside students from other Archdiocesan schools—offering leadership, collaboration, and a shared commitment to living out our faith in meaningful ways.

The Expo Conference for Life will be open to all students, and more details—including the schedule, speakers, and registration information—will be shared soon. Please note that spaces will be limited, so early interest is encouraged.

We look forward to this inspiring opportunity to gather, learn, and celebrate the dignity of life together. Stay tuned for more information in the coming weeks!

Gr.10 Morality Retreat: Walking the Path of Goodness

On Tuesday, March 10, Grade 10 students will take part in an off-campus Morality Retreat titled Walking the Path of Goodness, an important component of the Grade 10 Religion program. This retreat invites students to explore moral decision-making through a Catholic lens while engaging with the rich religious and cultural diversity of our local community.

Music

STMC and Vancouver College Jazz Sharing Day

STMC’s Jazz A hosted VC’s Jazz 11 for our annual Jazz Sharing Day on January 27. Students worked with renowned jazz musicians and educators and performed for one another.

The students always enjoy this event and the opportunity to collaborate with our fellow Christian Brother school.

Northwest High School Honour Band

Congratulations to Grade 11 band students Daniel Endriga (trumpet), Olivia Lee (flute), Eldon Yan (euphonium), and Kaden Yan (clarinet) who were selected to represent STMC at Pacific Lutheran University’s Northwest High School Honour Band! The band included students from BC, Washington, Oregon, and Montana.

Junior Band at Camp Stillwood

The Junior Band enjoyed a winter retreat at Camp Stillwood where we had the opportunity for extended rehearsal and social time as well as preparation for our upcoming performances.

Track and Field 2026

The STMC Track and Field Championship Season officially begins on Monday, March 2nd, and we’re inviting students from Grades 8–12 to be part of an exciting and supportive team environment. Track & Field offers a wide range of events—including sprints, distance, jumps, throws, and relays—so there truly is something for everyone.

Important Dates

Information Meeting (Grades 10, 11 & 12):
Tuesday, February 24 at lunch — Room 213

Information Meeting (Grades 8 & 9):
Wednesday, February 25 at lunch — Room 213

Season Begins:
Monday, March 2nd

Practices Days: Monday to Thursday Time: 3:00 pm – 4:15 pm

Competition

Our team competes in the Burnaby–New Westminster league, with meets scheduled throughout the spring season. The full league schedule can be found here: https://bnwtrack.weebly.com/

If you’re looking to challenge yourself, represent STMC with pride, and be part of a strong team culture, Track & Field is for you. Come to the info meeting, ask questions, and take the first step toward an unforgettable season.

See you on the track

Alumni & Friends Pickleball Tournament

Last year’s Community Pickleball Tournament was a smashing success, with a strong turnout from Knights young and old. We kicked off the day with a fun and engaging beginners’ workshop in the morning, giving first-timers a chance to learn the game and feel confident on the court. Competition heated up as we moved into the tournament, where alumni and friends rallied together for a day of friendly matches and community spirit.

We’re excited to build on that momentum this year! Whether you’re a seasoned player or just picking up a paddle for the first time, join us for another day of fun, connection, and Knight pride!