September 26 was a rainy fall morning, but the halls of The Ursuline School were abuzz with warmth and excitement as we gathered to celebrate the Opening Liturgy of the 2024-25 academic year. This year’s first mass holds extra-special meaning as the school community united to honor their beloved chaplain, Monsignor Dennis P. Keane, retiring after an incredible 45 years of service to The Ursuline School.
Honoring Ursuline's Chaplain, Monsignor Dennis P. Keane, on his retirement as chaplain after 45 years of dedicated service to the school community during the Opening Liturgy of the 2024-25 academic year.
Monsignor Keane has been a treasured fixture at Ursuline, offering guidance, support, and spiritual nourishment to generations of students, faculty, staff, and alumnae. His gentle demeanor, kind heart, and unwavering dedication to the school mission and Core Values leave a lasting impact on countless lives.
The tribute began with the opening liturgy led by Monsignor Keane, with students, faculty, and staff offering prayers and hymns. It was a joyful celebration of faith and deep-felt gratitude as his family members, friends, and former colleagues joined in the celebration.
Principal Ms. Theresa Napoli reads the First Reading during mass.
Mrs. Rosemary Clarizio, Performing Arts chair and Middle School Choral Instructor leads her students in song.
As the Mass came to a close, Dr. Melnyk took to the podium to express her gratitude to Monsignor Keane for his many years of service, noting that it is a comfort that Monsignor will remain close to Ursuline “in person and in prayer” in the years ahead.
The Ursuline School President, Dr. Colleen Melnyk, shares words of gratitude and love for our retiring chaplain at the conclusion of mass.
She then read from a letter sent by Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York, on the occasion of Monsignor’s retirement. His letter to Monsignor Keane states:
“For more than 50 years as a priest, you have faithfully served the people of God in this corner of the Lord’s vineyard known as the Archdiocese of New York. I am sure that no assignment has been more fulfilling than your 45 years as chaplain, helping the young women of The Ursuline School grow closer to Jesus and His Church as they become wise, active, globally-minded leaders.”
After the Mass, the school hosted a reception in Monsignor Keane's honor. Guests, including family, friends, and colleagues, filled the Kulsar & McCarthy lobby to share their heartfelt thanks for his guidance and friendship over the years.
Though Monsignor Keane may have retired as the school chaplain, his legacy of compassion, love, and spirituality will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of all touched by his presence.
Dr. Melnyk shares, “May Monsignor Keane feel the fullness of our gratitude and love, and may God bless him with peace, joy, and fulfillment, knowing that his legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of this community.”
The reception in Monsignor Keane's honor draws heartfelt gratitude and love from family, friends, faculty, staff, and former colleagues.
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