Father Ed Lavelle is famous for saying, “Jesus is alive and well at Lancaster Catholic High School!” For seven decades and counting, Father Lavelle continues to positively shape the lives of generations of Catholic High family members. Father proudly shares with everyone that he would give anything for his beloved school - minus his right arm because “that’s my pitching arm!”
Father Lavelle was ordained a Priest in Rome in 1963. From 1968-1979, he joyfully and expertly fulfilled many roles at LCHS, including Theology Teacher, Chaplain, Assistant- to-the-Principal and Principal. Even as Father Lavelle worked in the Diocese of Harrisburg’s Tribunal from 1979 through his retirement in 2013, Father continued to be a vital member of the Lancaster Catholic High School family.
Even today, Father Lavelle can be found at 650 Juliette Avenue mentoring our students and faculty/staff, co-celebrating Masses with our school Chaplain, hearing Confessions, and participating in retreats. Come to any Catholic High Athletic or Fine & Performing Arts event and you will see Father Lavelle proudly cheering on his students as he flies the purple and gold colors.
According to Father Lavelle, two words that best describe Lancaster Catholic High School are “Love” and “Joy”, which he explains is exemplified by all of our students and faculty/staff. He thanks God every day to be able to continue ministering as a priest in his 80s to our current young people. “The biggest opportunity for growth within the Catholic Church will come from our Catholic Schools! I see what our students and teachers at LCHS accomplish each day together and it is awe-inspiring and powerful. Our teachers and coaches love their students…really love them…and our students in-turn love them in return. And LCHS has some of the very best teachers I have ever had the privilege to be around. One of the many characteristics that makes Lancaster Catholic High School so special is our unwavering acceptance and affection for everyone and anyone.”
Father Lavelle’s ongoing investment in the students and in the mission of Lancaster Catholic High School continues to inspire others to join him in this important Crusade!