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St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart Mass

The St. Augustine High School community—students, faculty, and staff—solemnly assembled this past Thursday to celebrate the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass in honor of the Society of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart (Josephites). This venerable religious community of Catholic priests and brothers has long been devoted to the evangelization and spiritual care of the African American community, bearing witness to the Gospel through lives of service, sacrifice, and steadfast commitment to justice. Their apostolate continues to flourish through sacramental ministry, education, pastoral care, and advocacy for those most in need.

Since opening its doors in 1951 under the guidance of the Josephites, St. Augustine High School has grown into a distinguished institution of faith and academic excellence, affectionately known as “2600.” The school remains a living testament to the enduring vision, courage, and fidelity of its founders, faithfully reflecting the spirit of St. Joseph in its mission and daily life.

On March 19, 2026, the Solemnity of St. Joseph, the entire school community gathered in the Wellness Center to honor its patron saint and to give thanks for the profound legacy of the Josephites, whose leadership and dedication have shaped generations of young men. In a particular and heartfelt manner, tribute was paid to Lawrence Price, SSJ, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday on January 24 and who will mark the 64th anniversary of his final vows in May. His lifelong witness to faith, humility, and service stands as an enduring inspiration to the St. Augustine family.

The Eucharistic celebration was reverently offered by Howard Byrd, SSJ, as principal celebrant, with the homily delivered by Etido Jerome, SSJ. The liturgy was further enriched by the sacred music of the Knights of Praise, whose voices elevated the worship and unified the assembly in prayer. Joining in the celebration as concelebrants were Linus James, SSJ, Chidiebete Dominic, SSJ, and Martin Udofia, SSJ.

This sacred observance served not only as a celebration of the Eucharist, but also as a profound expression of gratitude for the Josephites’ enduring presence and influence. It reaffirmed the school’s unwavering commitment to its founding mission and to the continued formation of young men grounded in faith, scholarship, and service.


The Society of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart, The Josephites, have named Reverend Etido Jerome, S.S.J Chief Religious Officer, effective September 1, 2022. Fr. Etido was previously the chaplain at Xavier University of Louisiana, which is also affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. Father Etido had also previously served as a pastoral intern at the St. Brigid Catholic Church in Los Angeles, in addition to being the former campus minister associate intern at Howard University in Washington, D.C. Fr. Etido completed his licentiate in sacred theology from the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, D.C.  He also holds two bachelor’s degree and a master of divinity degree.

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