Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board

Intermediate Scripture Reading

Posted on 05/15/2026

Students from across the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board gathered at Bishop Ryan Catholic Secondary School on Wednesday, May 6, for the Board’s annual Intermediate Scripture Reading Event, an evening celebrating faith, reverence, community and the proclamation of God’s word.

Held during Catholic Education Week, this year’s gathering reflected the 2026 theme, Pilgrims of Hope: On the Path to Holiness, inviting students, families, educators and community members to reflect on how Sacred Scripture guides us in our daily lives.

Sponsored by the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic Teachers’ Local Unit in cooperation with the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board Trustees, the Intermediate Scripture Reading Event provides students with an opportunity to become more familiar and confident proclaiming the Word of God in a public setting. Since its inception in 1990, the event has continued to grow and remains an important tradition within the Catholic education community.

Throughout the evening, student participants confidently proclaimed selected passages from Scripture before an audience of trustees, senior administration, educators, parents, peers and a panel of judges. Their readings reflected thoughtful preparation, strong faith and a deep respect for the traditions reserved for Holy Scripture. Participants were evaluated on qualities such as clarity, expression, reverence and deportment while proclaiming God’s word.

In recognition of their preparation and participation, all students received participation medals, helping to emphasize the celebratory and faith-filled nature of the event. Honourable Mention Awards were also presented in both the Grade 7 and Grade 8 divisions.

David Paone, co-chair of the System Intermediate Scripture Reading Committee, welcomed guests and participants by recognizing the meaningful role the event plays in students’ faith journeys.

“Tonight, we honour the students who have shared their faith by proclaiming Scripture, witnessing how God’s word continues to guide us as pilgrims on the path to holiness,” said Paone.

Co-chair Caitlin Cunningham reflected on the deeper meaning behind this year’s Catholic Education Week theme, reminding those gathered that holiness is often found in everyday acts of compassion and service.

“This week challenges us to notice those who may need a sign of Christ’s hope and to respond with openness and care,” said Cunningham. “Every act of service, every moment of understanding, and every effort to build community helps reveal God’s presence in our world.”

Board Chairperson John Valvasori congratulated the students for participating in an event centred on faith and the proclamation of Scripture.

“You were the ones who chose the most important competition in Catholic schools during this Catholic Education Week, and that's reading the Holy Scriptures,” said Valvasori. “Your readings today have made us feel successful.”

Josh Mamer, President of Hamilton-Wentworth OECTA, also praised the students for answering the call to discipleship through Sacred Scripture.

“Part of our call to discipleship involves the sharing of the good news of Jesus Christ through sacred scripture,” said Mamer. “You have answered that call here this evening. The maturity and commitment you've shown tonight are a reflection of your strong faith.”

The evening concluded with the presentation of Honourable Mention Awards for Grade 7 and Grade 8 participants, recognizing students for their dedication, reverence and confident proclamation of God’s word.

Grade 7 and Grade 8 winners and honourable mentions

Grade 7:
Nuthara (Our Lady of Hope)
Aniela (St. Paul)
Margareth (Annunciation of our Lord)
ALicia (St. Luke)
Sophia (St. Thérèse of Lisieux)
Jodi (Regina Mundi)
Alyssa (St. Agnes)
Mariam (Holy Name of Jesus)

Grade 8:
Nadira (Holy Name of Jesus)
Lyra (St. Thérèse of Lisieux)
Nethinsa (Canadian Martyrs)
Anna (St. David)
Cael (Our Lady of Lourdes)
Julia (St. Marguerite D'Youville)
Amy (St. James)
Jennifer (Our Lady of Peace)

More photos on our HWCDSB Facebook page