St. Dominic Catholic School Celebrates 80 Years of Legacy

On September 27, 2023, St. Dominic Catholic School in Kingsport celebrated its 80th anniversary, marking eight decades of commitment to faith and education. The milestone was commemorated with a special event titled “Mass & Memories,” which brought together parishioners, alumni, and families to reflect on the school’s rich history and its impact on the community.

The evening commenced with a Vigil Mass at 17:30, led by Bishop Mark Beckman of the Diocese of Knoxville and Father Michael Cummins, the school’s pastor. They were joined by Father Anselm Edu, Father Bede Aboh, and several deacons. The liturgy featured music by Dana Bellino, an alumna and current music teacher, alongside the SDCS student choir. Students actively participated in the service, serving as readers and altar servers, culminating in a heartfelt performance by all students, which underscored the ongoing legacy of faith.

A Legacy of Faith and Service

The origins of St. Dominic Catholic School trace back to 1945, when three Sisters of Mercy began educating 25 children in a single building. The school was established as part of a growing Catholic community in Kingsport, which had its first Mass celebrated in 1914 by Father John Callahan, known as the “Horseback Priest” for his dedication to serving remote areas.

By 1951, the school had expanded with the dedication of a new brick building, and over the years, further developments included the addition of Father Woodley Hall in 1968 and the opening of a Child Development Center in 1986. Throughout its history, St. Dominic has navigated cultural changes and challenges, including the recent COVID-19 pandemic, while maintaining its mission to nurture the hearts and minds of children.

“Our school is a ministry of the Church,” said Father Cummins. “It 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, St. Dominic Catholic School serves preschool through grade 5, providing a rigorous academic curriculum infused with Catholic values. Students engage in weekly Mass, service projects, and various activities that foster spiritual growth. Principal Bonnie Saleh emphasized the school’s community spirit, stating, “It’s a place where children are known by name, where faith is lived daily.”

Beth Barnette, the director of development and admissions, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the recent Mass & Memories event served as a reminder that, despite changes over the years, the essence of St. Dominic remains strong: “It’s a community where hearts are formed and faith is lived out loud.”

As St. Dominic Catholic School enters its 81st year, it continues to welcome families of all faiths, reinforcing its role as a pivotal institution in the Kingsport community. Alumni often return to the school, now sending their own children to the same halls where they once learned, demonstrating the enduring legacy of faith, knowledge, and service that St. Dominic embodies.