This is carnival weekend. It is early in the week as I write this and the weather looks very uncertain at this point. We are praying for those who appear to be in harm’s way as Florence bears down on the Carolina’s and Virginia. We will respond through special collections as called for by the diocese and Catholic Relief Services. Hopefully we can all enjoy some of the carnival this weekend.
Next weekend we will observe Catechetical Sunday. It is a time for us to celebrate our catechists – professional staff in the school, the faith formation office, and the many volunteers who work with our students, RCIA candidates, and adult faith programs throughout the year. We are still waiting news on the start date of Mrs. Melissa Dayton, our new Director of Faith Formation. I am hoping that she can be here next Sunday for the blessing. This will give everyone a chance to meet her. Thank you to all who came out to bid adieu to Mrs. Contino last weekend. She reports that she has a big desk in a corner office and had lunch with the Bishop on her first day. We pray that she will do good things in her position as the Diocesan Director of Catechesis.
So far the school events are going well. We have had all of the usual and necessary back to school events, and the welcoming of new students and their families. Mr. Donahue and the teachers seem to be happy and enjoying the beginning of the year, so we pray for everyone’s continued success.
I mentioned last weekend about the proceeds of the carnival and raffle going to begin to air condition the school facilities. We need to do the preliminary work of upgrading the electrical wiring in order to be able to install air conditioning units in the classrooms. Some of the rooms are already air conditioned, but it is sporadic and inefficient.
This project is not just to provide air conditioning for the few days a year that are stifling hot, but to be able to expand our use of the facilities throughout the year. We are envisioning more religious formation, academic enrichment, athletic and social camps, so that the facility can get broad use during the year. Not only will this enhance the revenue stream, but it has the great benefit of building the community of the parish. Parents are looking for camps and other events for their children throughout the summer. If we can offer a variety of programs here for all parishioners – not just those who are also school parents – then you can be assured that your children are in a safe environment with a well-trained professional staff who provide the best care, and offer solid programs for them.
We would love to see the parish facilities open throughout the summer, and air conditioning will allow us to do so.
Overall things seem to be good right now, but we can never just rest on our laurels or take things for granted.
All the best to you! Father JM and I hope to see all of you at the Carnival!
Father Garry