A Message from President Colistra

Dear Friends,

As the white smoke appeared in the sky above the Sistine Chapel, a wave of anticipation swept over us. Our school community held its breath along with the rest of the world. Then those traditional words rang out from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica: “Habemus Papam!” - “We have a Pope!” Cheers erupted from our classrooms and cafeteria as the students celebrated the naming of our new Pope, a name that we did not expect. Robert Francis Prevost, once a Cardinal from Chicago, Illinois, had just made history. He was not only the first Pope from the United States, but also the first from all of North America. It was a moment none of us expected, one that felt like witnessing history unfold right before our eyes.

At St. X, we are dedicated to forming young men of faith and purpose. The election of Pope Leo XIV, a man whose upbringing mirrors that of many of our students, is a powerful and meaningful moment for our community. It reminds us that the seeds of leadership and service are often planted in places just like ours. A South Side Chicago boy who attended his local Catholic parish school, he went on to major in mathematics and study philosophy at Villanova University (as did my own father, ’68 - Go Cats!). His faith and values were rooted at home with his mom, dad, and brothers, shaping the leader he would become.

His life stands as a witness to what is possible when we live with purpose, answer God’s call, and trust in His plan. “God raises up shepherds for His flock,” and a new shepherd has been chosen - one who reflects the very values we strive to instill every day. May his example inspire our young men to walk in faith, lead with humility, and always believe that, with God, anything is possible.

May God bless our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, and the Catholic Church!

St. Francis Xavier…Pray For Us.

Please follow the link for official information from the Archdiocese of Louisville.

Paul D. Colistra
President & CEO