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Perceiving Truth

Epiphanies happen when we least expect them. My late mother used to love to read murder mysteries and would often go back through the books she read long after the dramatic conclusion was revealed – which she would usually get correct! She would then explain to the rest of us about how she had missed such obvious clues in the book but would still, usually, get the answer correct regardless. I remember asking her about it – how could she possibly still get it correct even when she would miss the hints, clues, and other pieces of evidence the whole time. She simply stated that it was just something inside of her, her own intuition and ability to perceive the truth. How simple an answer this is, but in reflecting upon it, what great power it carries: to be able to take less than obvious signs in a complex situation and realize the greater truth that would otherwise not be readily explained. I liken this to the situation of the Magi and to those who would hear the early preaching of Christ. To hear the literal words of Christ and, perhaps, not fully comprehend what they are bearing witness to. Continue to seek and know those moments in your life – to encounter Christ in them!

Go to Joseph

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.

Fill Jesus Up

Do you know the song “It’s My Party” by Lesley Gore? While I might be dating myself on that one, I grew up listening to “the oldies.” In reading today’s Gospel, this is what popped in my head. For not only did I read the Gospel, but also the verses that come after it where Jesus laments for Jerusalem. Jesus is crying at His own party.

Have you ever felt sad at a party? I have.  Now that I think about it, I may have felt sad at a party on more than one occasion. What would cause one to be sad at their own party?

• Knowing that the joy and fun of the party will come to an end.
• Maybe a certain special person isn’t there that you wanted to be there.
• Realizing that you have spent so much time making sure that everything is “just so” that you miss the moments of connection (I call this a Martha Moment).

There most certainly may be more, but you get the idea. While I have never experienced anything like Jesus did, I can imagine that this event was anything but celebratory for Him, or was it? What would cause Him to be sad at His party?

• He is aware that this moment is fleeting.
• He is aware that terrible suffering is looming.
• He is aware that His disciples aren’t quite getting it and that is frustrating.
• He is aware that He is going to die a very painful and humiliating death in a few days.

With all this being known, does He participate in the party? He most certainly does! How can I tell? He rebukes the Pharisees. Jesus is enjoying the celebration and wants it to keep going.  It may be just what He needs knowing what He knows. The cheers of recognition and love are filling His cup before His cup is emptied. 

Take the opportunity of this Palm Sunday to fill up Jesus’s cup before He pours it all out for us this Holy Week. Give Him everything you have by prayer and supplication so that Good Friday is so, so good!

Thank you, Jesus, for preparing such a tremendous banquet for us. We can’t wait to join you at the heavenly feast where there will be no more crying. Ever.