St. Dominic Catholic School Marks 80 Years of Community Impact

St. Dominic Catholic School in Kingsport celebrated its 80th anniversary on September 27, 2023, with a special event titled “Mass & Memories.” This gathering brought together parishioners, alumni, and families to reflect on a legacy that began in 1945 when three Sisters of Mercy taught just 25 children in a single building.

The evening kicked off with a Vigil Mass at 17:30, celebrated by Bishop Mark Beckman of the Diocese of Knoxville, alongside Father Michael Cummins, pastor of St. Dominic, and other clergy members. The liturgy featured music led by Dana Bellino, an alumna and current music teacher at the school, along with the student choir. The involvement of students and alumni as readers and altar servers highlighted the enduring connection between past and present generations.

After the Mass, attendees moved to the school campus, where they enjoyed light refreshments and engaged with a timeline wall showcasing significant milestones in the school’s history. Memory cards and video recordings allowed alumni and parishioners to share personal stories, fostering a sense of gratitude for the impact St. Dominic has had on their lives.

A Rich Legacy of Faith and Education

The origins of St. Dominic Catholic School are intertwined with the growth of the Catholic community in Kingsport. The first Catholic Mass in the area was celebrated in 1914 by Father John Callahan, affectionately known as “The Horseback Priest.” By 1945, the community had developed sufficiently to establish a parish and a school, which was entrusted to the Sisters of Mercy, renowned for their commitment to education and compassion.

Since its inception, the school has undergone significant expansions. A new brick building was dedicated in 1951, followed by the addition of Father Woodley Hall in 1968, which provided much-needed space for gatherings. In 1986, the Child Development Center was opened, catering to the youngest learners in the community. Throughout the decades, St. Dominic has navigated various challenges, including cultural shifts and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, all while remaining dedicated to its mission of nurturing the hearts, minds, and souls of children.

According to Father Cummins, “Our school is a ministry of the Church and has proven over the years to be that voice of Jesus that connects with people, brings them closer to God, and inspires them to live their lives in a way pleasing to Him.”

Continuing the Mission Today

Today, St. Dominic Catholic School continues to uphold the mission initiated by the Sisters of Mercy, focusing on education infused with the love and compassion of Christ. Serving preschool through grade 5, the school provides a robust academic foundation, seamlessly integrated with its Catholic identity. Students participate in Mass twice a week and engage in service projects that support both parish ministries and the wider community.

Principal Bonnie Saleh reflected on the school’s strength, stating, “It’s a place where children are known by name, where faith is lived daily, and where every person—student, teacher, or parent—is valued as a member of our family in Christ.”

Director of Development and Admissions Beth Barnette emphasized the significance of the Mass & Memories event, noting that while the physical buildings and individuals may change, the spirit of St. Dominic remains constant—characterized by faith, generosity, and hope.

As St. Dominic Catholic School embarks on its 81st year, it remains a vibrant ministry within St. Dominic Parish, welcoming families of all faiths and continuing to illuminate the path of Catholic education for future generations. Many alumni have transitioned into roles as educators, healthcare workers, and business leaders, often returning to the same school that shaped their early years.

With its steadfast commitment to forming a foundation of faith, knowledge, and service, St. Dominic Catholic School exemplifies the enduring impact of a community dedicated to nurturing the next generation.