Catholic Schools
With the disappointing news that South City Catholic Academy is closing at the end of this academic year I wish to offer a couple thoughts. First, my heart goes out to the families affected who have made a commitment to Catholic Education and wish that formative environment for their children. I ask we remember that community in our prayers during this difficult time of transition.
In addition, it offers our parishes the opportunity to be hospitable, to extend a hand of welcome to those who wish to continue to enjoy a Catholic Education for their family. I have been in regular communication with our principals who have been making efforts to prepare for the inquiries coming our way about space in our classrooms. As I have informed our parents, we have space in many of our grades and hope to make that information available to the families of South City Catholic School. All this effort is done in the light that our populations at both our schools are strong. Neither school could absorb all the students, but we hope to offer options for many of them. Your ongoing support for our schools makes this possible.
Catholic School Week
The last week of January is also the week we celebrate the ministry of Catholic Education. There will be a variety of activities in our school to highlight the importance of the formation that can be offered only in our schools. Again, thank you for your support and encouragement. Thanks especially to our faculty, parents, and children!
Farewell Mary Beth Wittry
Please join us on Mary Beth’s last weekend as Music Director as we honor her years of service to St. Gabriel’s. On Saturday, January 24th after the 5:00 pm Mass, we will host a cocktail party in the Rectory. On Sunday morning, January 25th, after the 10 am Mass, coffee and doughnuts will be available in the Rectory. Join us in thanking Mary Beth for her generous ministry to us all.
Building Bright Futures Update
Elsewhere in the bulletin is an update on our building progress. It is a tedious, slow process but it will provide a wonderful result. Thanks especially to our committee who have continued to meet and work on the project.
Learn more about our history
Fr. Molini will offer three sessions looking at the history of the Archdiocese through the charism of our patron saints. Sessions will be offered in the afternoon and evening:
1:00 pm (St. Raphael’s Rectory, lower level) and 7:00 pm (St. Gabriel’s Meeting Room)
February 11: St. Louis, King of France and the growth of our Catholic Community
February 25: St. Vincent de Paul and the ministry of Charity in St. Louis
March 11: St. Rose Philippine Duchesne and the ministry of Catholic Education in St. Louis
We have a rich history of faith, charity and education and now is a great opportunity to learn more of our legacy and how we are continuing these efforts. Make plans now to join us.