Rev. James R. Flynn, O.S.A., Malvern’s Head of School, presided over the service along with Rev. Thomas Meehan, O.S.A., Rev. Christopher Drennen, O.S.A., Rev. Harry Erdlen, O.S.A., and Rev. Dr. Joseph P. Oechsle.

Fr. Flynn welcomed students with an explanation of the theme for the upcoming school year: Leadership.  He asked students to ask themselves what kind of students they want to be, and to always remember others as they strive for success in the upcoming year. “Christ told his followers that leadership is not about power,” he said. “Leadership has two elements: suffering and service.”

A reading from the Holy Gospel according to Matthew, in which Christ addresses the Apostles, reinforced this message.  “Anyone among you who aspires to greatness must serve the rest, and whoever wants to rank first among you must serve the needs of all.”