As I contemplate my years at Cor Jesu, I ask myself how my four years there helped shape my life. Graduation was 48 years ago. Wow! That was decades ago. I remember the initial impact that I felt as a Freshman. I knew quite a few of my classmates from grade school, but there were so many new faces that I did not know. Was this going to be a challenge for me? I was just an average student with some interests. Could I find a niche that would give me a sense of belonging? That feeling didn’t last long. In the first few months of school, our principal died and one of our very talented Seniors collapsed during play practice and passed away suddenly. Boy, that was a lot to experience as new students! Our hearts were heavy with uncertainty and sadness. As a firm believer in the concept that Jesus meets us where we are, I believe the love of Jesus Christ brought our class close together in a short period of time. 

Fast forward to 2025! We continue to remain connected. Granted, some of our classmates have moved away from St. Louis, and there have been a handful of classmates who have passed away, but thanks to social media and email, we are able to stay in touch. Sharing the love of the Sacred Heart continues to guide us through our life’s journey. We share family stories and often reach out with requests for prayers. We continually experience joys and sadness that link us together.

My experience at Cor Jesu was not just attending classes and participating in extracurricular activities, it was the beginning of something bigger. We are connected in so many ways. There are no coincidences in life. Jesus is central to our lives and provides us with love and guidance. We just need to be open to receive Him. 

Do you remember a pivotal time in your life when Jesus was there for you? How has it impacted your life?

Colleen Denney Konold  ‘77