St. Anthony School in Robstown started the 2011-12 school year on Aug. 12 with a Liturgy for the feast of St. Dominic at the parish church.

The faculty and staff of the school were recognized and received the final blessing from the outgoing pastor, Father Dennis Walsh, SOLT.

Students, faculty, staff and some parents said “good bye” to Father Walsh after Mass before he began a long drive to Detroit, Michigan where he will begin a new assignment. The students waved Texas and Michigan state flags while they sang a farewell song.

The students assured Father Walsh of their prayers for a safe trip and in return he told them he would try to send them a snowman at wintertime.

Father Walsh served as the pastor of St. Anthony de Padua Parish in Robstown for seven years. He was a strong supporter of Catholic education.