On January 3rd, 2024, Oratory Prep began painting its newest mural. OP plans to paint the hallways a scene that students can enjoy for decades. The mural is being painted in the hallway connecting the left and right staircases, behind the fitness center in DeGaeta. Each student will be given the opportunity to help create the mural. With the help of Mr. Martin, students from every grade have been placed into a schedule allowing them the chance to leave their mark on this school.
The mural depicts scenes of St. Philip Neri, the Virgin Mary, various sports equipment, Oratory’s logo and crest, and much more. St. Philip Neri is Oratory’s Patron Saint, the founder of the first Oratory, and the patron saint of joy. Since OP is a Catholic school, it’s only right to have an image of Mary, the Mother of God. The sports equipment shown represents the numerous sports Oratory has to offer such as golf, lacrosse, hockey, baseball, basketball, and more. Oratory’s infamous ram head makes an appearance in front of the fitness center entrance and the crest can be seen right next to St. Philip Neri. The crest, painted in blue and gold, reads “Fidelitas”, which means “faithfulness” in Latin. The mural shows students at graduation, tossing their caps, it pays tribute to languages and musical arts, and most importantly, it represents what Oratory Prep is all about, friendship, education, faithfulness, and religion. Lots of progress has already been made throughout these past few weeks with much more room for development.