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Follow Me

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I find Matthew 9:9-13 particularly compelling. It chronicles the calling of St. Matthew. Jesus sees him at his customs post (counting table) and simply says “Follow Me.”  With no words spoken (at least none that are recorded in the Bible) Matthew just DOES it ~ “he got up and followed Him.”    

Now St. Matthew is the well-renowned patron saint of accountants – so you can see why he holds a place in my heart – but the majority of accountants and tax collectors are not the spontaneous sort. There’s too much OCD control and discipline built in to the profession and ditching an incomplete task just doesn’t happen.   

Obviously, something overwhelmingly powerful touched Matthew’s heart in that moment, to compel him to professional negligence. So he followed. Without question. Matthew just Followed Jesus.

And then Jesus’ sitting at table with all manner of tax collectors and sinners just compounded the incredible nature of what was going on that day. Causing Pharisees to question Jesus’ judgment and cast dispersions on those Jesus chose to speak to and include.

Isn’t it revealing? The Pharisees who thought of themselves as righteous, yet had no mercy or kindness towards those who needed conversion the most. Don’t we see that scene play out every day throughout our lives?   Their hearts were hard and their ears were deaf to the clear message of Jesus.

But Matthew who was called, despite being scorned by many in society, didn’t hesitate at all. He knew deep down that he was a sinner. He knew that he needed to change. He knew that Jesus was the Way.

Each of us must likewise be the voice, calling the lost and broken to Follow Jesus.  And if we are the one lost and broken, don’t we appreciate when someone else in our lives cares enough to speak up.

Posted by Vivian Roe

Go to Joseph

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Our theme for the new school year,  “Go to Joseph,” invites us to draw inspiration and strength from
Saint Joseph, the steadfast guardian of the Holy Family, who faced life’s uncertainties with unwavering faith and quiet resolve.

Saint Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus and husband to Mary, serves as a model of perseverance and dedication. His life is a testament to the virtues of courage, commitment, and steadfastness—qualities we are called to embrace as we move through this school year. Just as Saint Joseph approached his role with resilience and grace, we are invited to reflect on how we can embody these virtues as supporters of our students, teachers, and the school community. Saint Joseph’s qualities resonate deeply with the role of a teacher. Our dedicated teachers nurture, guide, and protect our students, and they are an invaluable resource to our parish community. 

I am deeply honored to serve as your principal and am committed to two primary goals: doing what is best for our students and ensuring their safety. Our school’s mission of inspiring minds, developing character, and seeking Christ is not only our guiding mission for our educational approach but also shapes my daily work and personal conduct. It is this mission that guides me within our school community and beyond.

Meeting our families, students, and teachers during the first week of school has been a true joy. The enthusiasm and warmth with which everyone has welcomed the new year are extraordinary. Our youngest learners’ smiles as they hopped out of the car for their first day remind me of the childlike faith we all strive for. Our middle school students’ leadership is a testament to the strong education and character development at our school. I am excited about the possibilities this year holds and am inspired by the vibrant community that makes St. Dominic Catholic School so special.

I invite everyone to pray for our teachers as they take on the important task of educating and inspiring our students. Their work, much like Saint Joseph’s, is characterized by dedication, patience, and love. May his example of steadfastness and faith inspire us all to approach our roles, whatever they may be, with the same commitment and resolve.

Please know that my prayers are with our parish and school communities. Together, let us create an environment where hope and resilience flourish, so our students can thrive and grow in their own journey of faith and learning at St. Dominic Catholic School.

Posted by Brita Willis

We Are Gifts from God

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I have been described as a high-motor guy, although some mornings the oil doesn’t seem to get to the joints as quickly as needed. Conversations and projects requiring my attention are plentiful. My wife needs to remind me to eat when I get deep into a home project. To quote Professor Hinkle, “busy, busy, busy.” Strangely, I enjoy the pace.

Oh I relax, I’m known to watch a movie on the couch with my eyes closed. One of our joys is sitting at our backyard fire pit, especially after floating the day away in the pool. Sometimes there is conversation and other times just quiet. It is an opportunity to be alone in our thoughts or “just be.” Electronics are set aside and we observe birds singing to each other, an evening sky, and the wind in the trees.

Then it hits you. Everything, and I mean every person, place, thing, even our own lives, are gifts from God. Why does He give us these gifts? How do we use them?

The “why” is easy to answer. It is because He loves us, unconditionally, regardless of how we answer the “how” question.

God placed us here to be a gift to others. No pressure. We have a great example in Jesus. Love, listen, forgive, guide, and support. Focus less on what we don’t have. Thank God daily for what we have already received, even the minor things.

Be a gift to others, often in small, everyday ways. Spend time with an elderly parent or a friend in need. Listen to understand and not to reply. Let someone merge in traffic or go before you in a line. Hold a door open. Smile. For in giving we receive. Don’t worry, God has equipped us and will walk with us as we become gifts that keep on giving (and receiving).

Our mission statement says it . . . we are called to Be Christ each for the sake of all. Let’s get to work.

Posted by Michael Ricci

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