Faith is not belief. Belief is passive. Faith is active.

Yesterday I celebrated the end of Catholic School’s Week at St. Gabriel’s Parish along with my family and the parents of St. Nicholas students who call St. Gabriel’s home.  Fr. Henry generously allowed me to take a few minutes before the final blessing to discuss the attributes of Catholic education and the benefits of attending St. Nicholas Catholic School.  In yesterday’s Gospel reading the question was asked, “whom shall I send” to spread the word of God.  I suggested to St. Gabriel’s parents that they send their children to St. Nicholas.  Children who learn their faith in Catholic schools will mature into adults who share their faith experience easily and effectively in their communities.  Following Mass we passed out cookies in the reception area and I had the opportunity to speak with a number of parents from St. Gabriel’s Parish who are seeking a faith-filled education experience for their children.  St. Nicholas offers this and so much more!

Thank you to the parents, students, and staff who helped make Catholic Schools Week such a successful and enjoyable event at St. Nicholas.  Beginning with the well-attended Parish Appreciation Breakfast that initiated the week’s activities, each event was 'by the community and for the community.'  Monday’s Community Appreciation Day was marked by the distribution of cookies to our friends in the local area and it has always elicited heartfelt thanks from those who received visits by our students.  Wednesday was Student Appreciation Day and this day was celebrated at school as “pajama day” by children of all ages.  Staff Appreciation Day was held on Friday and in addition to a wonderful lunch provided by the PTO, staff members received lovely baskets filled with sumptuous homemade delights made by St. Nicholas School parents.  Again, thank you to all those who made Catholic Schools Week a time to pay tribute to all those in our midst who make St. Nicholas a true community school.

Thank You for Your Support of Catholic Education,

Michael Sweeney