Traditions

A Mass honoring Blessed Pauline von Mallinckrodt is held annually to recognize the founding of the Sisters of Christian Charity, Josephinum Academy’s original order. She founded the congregation in Germany in 1849 initially focused on caring for abandoned and blind children and have since expanded their ministries to include education, healthcare, social work, and other areas.

Congé (con•gé) is a French word for ‘leave taking’ or farewell. Congé is a cherished tradition at Sacred Heart schools worldwide. It's a surprise day when students are allowed to leave their studies and channel their energy to participate in fun, community-building activities. The day is typically filled with games, celebrations, and unexpected surprises, fostering a sense of joy and unity within the school community.

Throughout the year we make time to recognize the various cultures that represent The Jo. Using history, first hand accounts from students, traditional attire, food, and other specific cultural attributes identified by our students, The Jo takes time to acknowledge the cultural diversity that makes our community special.

Day of Service
TBD

At the start of the school day, the entire Josephinum community--students, faculty and staff-takes part in espacio, a brief period of intentional quiet reflection and stillness. Lasting just a few minutes, it is a way to connect with God and foster inner peace and mindfulness.

Annually, our Theater class hosts “Her Story”. Held in March, in conjunction with Women’s History Month, the students identify an influential woman in their life, interview them, then create and present a 5-minute monologue telling “her-story”. Performances are held during and after school so the school community can participate.

Junior Recognition ceremony marks a significant moment in a student’s journey, symbolizing growing maturity, responsibility, and their deepening connection to the Sacred Heart community.

Juniors receive a pin as a symbol of carrying Sacred Heart values into the world. During the ceremony, friends, faculty, and family members also take part by blessing the student’s journey ahead.

“Mater”—short for Mater Admirabilis, a representation of the Blessed Virgin Mary before the Annunciation—is a cherished tradition that marks a significant moment in a sophomore’s journey toward becoming a woman of the Sacred Heart. Mater celebrates their growing maturity, compassion, confidence, and service, honoring their transformation into strong, thoughtful, and purposeful young women who will carry Sacred Heart values forward in their lives.

The Sacred Heart Awards honor students who exemplify a commitment to their faith journey, leadership, service, and intellectual growth — reflecting the core values of the Goals and Criteria of Sacred Heart Education. Held each quarter these awards focus on one of the five Sacred Heart Goals, celebrating the unique ways students live out these values throughout the year.