The 2021 Alumni Picnic

Kaitlyn, a 2018 Chesterton alumna, reflects on her experience at our alumni picnic.

Coming back to Chesterton feels like coming back home. This was the general atmosphere and spirit among the alumni and faculty at this summer’s alumni picnic. It felt like walking back into the home you have been away from, and being welcomed back by the family that you have not seen in far too long. These are the people who journeyed alongside me during some of the most formative years of my life; who laughed with me daily, who challenged me to go deeper in my relationship with Christ, and who dove in deep with me into the deeper matters of life through study and discussion. I would not be the person I am today without the Chesterton Academy family.

There was such joy and nostalgia in the air as we caught up with old friends and classmates, reminisced about our days at Chesterton, and of course played games and sports together. It was also a great time to meet a few new friends. My favorite part of the evening was playing Chesterton Academy trivia, being able to remember the things and people integral to the CATHF history and to look back on the humble beginnings of our beloved alma mater. I remember being present on the first day of school in 2015, as 27 students entered the doors of Chesterton for the first time. Looking back on the past seven years and seeing how much we have thrived and grown fills me with immense pride and gratitude.

As another alumnus commented to me that evening, part of the great joy and delight we all felt had to do with the fact it had been so long since we had all been together, thanks to the pandemic, and we had all been craving the community and fellowship we experienced at Chesterton. It is so comforting to know that once we graduate, we still have this community, and will forever remain a part of the Chesterton family. I am so grateful for the family and the home I have found in Chesterton Academy of The Holy Family.

- Kaitlyn (‘18)