Mount Carmel’s 12th annual Society of Saint Cyril Donor Recognition Dinner took place Thursday, October 30, 2014, at the University Club of Chicago’s Front Grill.

According to the program, the purpose of this event is to enable the Carmelites to recognize those who support the mission of Mount Carmel High School, to provide a focus of inspiration and leadership for the advancement of the institution, and to assure continuing financial support for the school goals of educating young men of the Chicagoland area.

The society takes its name from Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, the patron saint of the Carmelite Order. As bishop of Jerusalem in the year 350, Cyril held many responsibilities, including the administration of justice through the Episcopal court, the negotiation of ransom for captives, maintaining good relations with the political leaders of his time and place, teaching and preaching to the faithful, converting non-believers, and offering spiritual guidance to any who sought his assistance.

There are several levels of memberships in the society: Life Membership consists of individuals or couples who have donated gifts to Mount Carmel that total $ 10,ooo or more. Deferred Gift Membership recognizes the Saint Albert Planned Giving Society, which is made up of individuals who designate Mount Carmel as part of their estate planning in the amount of $ 10,000 or more, or who establish major charitable annuities.  Sustaining Members include individuals  or couples who are currently working towards Life Membership.

Speakers at this year’s event included Fr. Tony Mazurkiewicz, who shared information about current events around MC, including Impact Week, a new service-learning program, and he summer project of replacing windows.

Principal John Stimler followed Fr. Tony with a speech about the vision of MC, which has to do with 21st Century learning environment, teaching to the strength of male learners, and using technology.  But the highlight of the program was Mrs. Peggy Barry, who with her husband Donal Barry ’63 received a special plaque recognizing their astonishing generosity to Mount Carmel, which currently exceeds $2,000,000.  When given the microphone, Barry spoke about the importance of Catholic education, and how honored she and her husband were to be in a position to offer their support.

With the support of generous donors like the members of the St. Cyril Society, MC will be able to continue its mission throughout the next century.