On a beautiful spring evening, graduating seniors, their families, and educators gathered at Our Lady, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Cathedral in Toledo for a solemn and joyful celebration of Evening Prayer and the presentation of the 2025 Bishop’s Cross—the highest honor bestowed upon Catholic high school graduates in the Diocese of Toledo.
The evening opened with a warm welcome from Kyle Kubik, Senior Director of Catholic Education, who offered a reflection on the deep history of this prestigious award. First presented in 1873 as the “Gold Medal for Christian Doctrine,” the award evolved over time into today’s Bishop’s Cross for Christian Doctrine, incorporating academic excellence in religion and commitment to Christian service. It remains a visible sign of faith, leadership, and witness to the Gospel.
“Today, the Bishop’s Cross remains the highest honor that is bestowed upon graduating seniors in the Diocese of Toledo,” Kubik said. “Congratulations to the recipients of this honor.”
Following the welcome, attendees participated in Evening Prayer (Vespers), part of the Liturgy of the Hours, giving praise and thanks to God for the day and lifting up prayers for the Church and the world. Bishop Daniel E. Thomas presided over the liturgy and personally presented the Bishop’s Cross to each of the recipients.
2025 Bishop’s Cross Recipients:
– Delphos St. John High School – Delphos
Alena Fuerst
Isaiah Freewalt
– Bishop Hoffman Catholic School – Fremont
Raymond A. Yerkes
Megan J. Hanes
– Lima Central Catholic High School – Lima
Dallas Martin
Emily Hunley
– St. Peter Junior High & High School – Mansfield
Lily Colarosa
Carter Fesler
– Norwalk Catholic School – Norwalk
Zoe Roth
Korey John Frazee
– Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School – Oregon
Mackenzie Marie Kinnie
Bryce Maxwell Fitch
– Sandusky Central Catholic High School – Sandusky
Michelle Greeman
Reid Wikel
– Calvert Catholic Schools – Tiffin
Emma Collins
Blake Coleman
– Central Catholic High School – Toledo
Alex Cherry
Alivia Fineske
– Notre Dame Academy – Toledo
Anna Reed
– St. Francis de Sales School – Toledo
Justin Drees
– St. John’s Jesuit High School – Toledo
Vincent Reef
– St. Ursula Academy – Toledo
Janelle Szymanski
At the conclusion of the liturgy, recipients gathered with Bishop Thomas in front of the altar for a commemorative group photo, followed by family photos and a reception in the parish hall. The evening served as a beautiful tribute to the faith, service, and academic achievement of these exceptional young men and women—shining examples of Catholic education in action.
Posted June 6, 2025 at 1:03 pm