Dear St. Francis of Assisi Families and Community,

 

We are wrapping up our short Thanksgiving week today and are excited for the opportunity to take a break and enjoy family and friends. As I reflect on the last three months here at St. Francis, I want to extend my gratitude to the school and parish community for welcoming me so warmly into the fold. The welcoming spirit and care for each other is contagious and life-giving. I see this generosity throughout campus: from the exceptional and caring faculty and staff who go above and beyond, to the community spirit of our PA events, the instrumental work and counsel of our School Commission, our athletic endeavors through our CYO partnership, the fun-filled events with our parish youth ministry program, and our weekly Buddy Masses, Sunday all-school coffee and donuts, and school choir Masses. Folks step up for each other and make sure no one is left out or left behind. This way of caring here at St. Francis is very special and one that I cherish.

This Sunday begins the season of Advent. The first week of Advent focuses on "hope"—the hope of Jesus' coming, anticipating the promises of God's faithfulness and commitment to always being close to us through the Incarnation. Let us continue to live into this hope as we celebrate and appreciate the generous gifts we have been blessed with.