Mr. T's Blog @ SKS

November 23, 2016

” Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of Thanksgiving.

W.T.Purkiser

“ A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue , but the mother of all other virtues.
Cicero

Dear St. Katharine of Siena School Families,

Last Wednesday evening we had the annual 8^th grade Thanksgiving Mass. At this mass, our 8^th graders honor and thank their parents for the many sacrifices that they make for their families. Unconditional love almost always involves sacrifice. Monsignor Brouwers, in his homily, reminded our 8^th grade class that their parents often sacrifice their own needs for the welfare of their children. He also thanked our parents for their unconditional support for our parish and school. Our families, who provide Catholic education for their children, in many instances, give up something to give their children an education that is well -rounded and well-grounded in Catholic values. Teaching our children to give up something for the good of others is certainly a life lesson that is worthwhile and expected for us as Catholics. Our parish/school communities are often asked to help through service. The past few weeks we have emptied out our closets in support for those who will face the cold winter months ahead and need warmth. Cradles to Crayons will once again benefit from your contributions and disperse those goods to those in need. Thank you to those that brought in hats, gloves, coats, and scarves.

I love this time of year, and I love Thanksgiving as much as any holiday! Thanksgiving is a time for love and thanks. It is a great break in the action in the fast paced lives we lead. The early Pilgrims are credited for the holiday, and they got it right. While we should give thanks every day for our blessings, it is good to stop and circle around the family table, break some bread, feast on a wonderful meal, and have a day to be with our loved ones. It’s no wonder that Thanksgiving is the most traveled holiday ever. People want to come home and be with their family and friends.

When I was a child, the time from Thanksgiving to Christmas seemed like an eternity. Now it seems to be a blink of an eye. This stretch from Thanksgiving to Christmas is full of a flurry of fun and favorite school community activities. Here are some dates to be marked in your calendars:

· * Donuts with Santa (Sunday, Dec. 4th ) for SKS Families and Friends

· * Santa’s Secret Workshop (at school, during school, for the children

(Dec 5^th - 7^th).

* Holyday - December 8th is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception - no school

* School Mass December 9th 9 AM by 6th grade

* The KG - 4 Christmas Concert in church on Wednesday, Dec. 14th at 7 PM

* Christmas Bash - KG-4 in cafeteria December 16th

* The Annual 5^th to 8^th Grade Christmas Tableau in church on Wednesday, December 21 at 7 PM

After this week, we move quickly into the season of Advent to prepare ourselves for the coming of the Christ Child. I was glad to see that some stores have decided to close for Thanksgiving to give their employees a break to be with their families. Still the advertising media and the retail world have already both blitzed us with Christmas music and decorations since before Halloween. We need to remind ourselves and our children about the real focus of the Advent season. It is to prepare our hearts and minds for the birth of the Jesus. We are encouraged In Advent season to prepare to spend some extra time on prayer reflection, alms-giving, doing for others,and sacrifice. Try to make some time to reflect on just that.

My thoughtful prayers of thanks are with you and your families this weekend. At the Tosti Thanksgiving table on Thursday, I will give thanks for my many blessings, including the St. Katharine of Siena School community as one of my most cherished gifts. Thank you for care and commitment to this parish and school. Happy Thanksgiving to your family.

A Thanksgiving Prayer

            For each new morning with its light,
            For rest and shelter of the night,
            For health and food, For love and friends,
           For everything Thy goodness sends.
Father in heaven, we thank you. Amen.

Most grateful,

Bud