by: Jessica McCarthy ’17
“The best thing about O’Hara is the friendly feeling of family among students, staff, administration and faculty” said O’Hara’s theology teacher Mr. Kropp. Mr. Kropp who is going into his 28th year of being an educator is teaching theology to freshmen. He joins the staff full time this year after teaching part time last year here at O’Hara. Kropp attended St. Joseph’s University and St. Charles Borromeo Seminary for graduate school. At these universities, Kropp earned a B.A. in English and an M.A. in Religious Studies.
Growing up in Drexel Hill, Mr. Kropp attended Monsignor Bonner High School. Kropp’s favorite subject in high school was theology because he loved discussing matters of faith. He also liked physical education because of the fun competitions. His favorite high school memory was scoring an impressive two eagles in one school golf match and attending his senior prom.
Some of his hobbies include physical fitness activities (lifting, power walking/running), competing in Senior Level sports, golf, being a fan of all Philly teams, being a trivia fan, writing, and impersonations, especially of movie scenes. Kropp also volunteers, such as being a lector and a volunteer committee person at his local parish. Fun fact about our new theology teacher is that he is currently reading “Jesus, A New Understanding of God’s Son.”
When asked what the best advice he was ever given, he responded “be adventurous and that experience is the best teacher.” This advice was given to him by his father. Mr. Kropp added that his mother said to him, “Trust in God, the Lord will show you the way.” With this advice in trusting God and the overwhelming care and support it has been incredibly transforming for Mr. Kropp who just recently celebrated being five years cancer-free as of 10/12/16.
“With God, all things are truly possible and his presence is in every person,” Kropp reflected.
Married to a wonderful wife, Kropp has a son, a loyal dog and “large extended family.” Kropp’s advice to students is to develop a prayer life with Jesus Christ and get involved by helping others and using our God-given gifts.
oharaliontales.com 