Time has flown, summer is slowly winding down, families are coming back from vacation, and the so-called BER months are just around the corner. These are the signs that a new academic is year has commenced.

Last Wednesday, we started a new school year and its gates opened for 500 students. Filled with enthusiasm, they were greeted by the new principal, Mrs. Sally Douthit along with Mrs. Lisa Coulter and the rest of the faculty. Back to school nights were conducted and the students gathered for their first morning assembly. I must say, it is nice to hear their voices and see them once again. It gives me hope and fills my heart with joy to journey with these young men and women.

To the returning students, welcome back. I hope you all had a great summer! It probably felt short, but I am sure you had a blast!

In a very special way, I welcome the new students and their parents. To the parents, thank you for giving us the opportunity to partner with you in forming your children both academically and spiritually.

The mission of our school is to nurture and help the students grow in their faith, to deepen their friendship with the Lord Jesus and form them to be faithful disciples. We are also committed to helping our students grow in knowledge and prepare them for higher education and a brighter future. And, to instill in them the importance of community by loving and caring for their brothers and sisters here and beyond.

This year, we have some new faces in our school. I am not only talking about new students, but also new faculty members – new principal, a few new teachers and office staff. Please join me in welcoming them to our parish community.

As we embark on this new academic year, let us pray for our school community. Let us ask the Holy Spirit, to whom this community is dedicated and named, to guide all of them with the wisdom they need and grant them safety and good health. May Mary, our Mother, protect and shield them and all of us with Her maternal care.