Good afternoon,

In today's Gospel we hear about the wedding at Cana. It is yet another example of what Jesus does for those who believe. At school, we have talked a lot about the recent Gospel's and what they reveal to us about Jesus. During his early ministry, Jesus continuously emphasizes the need to have faith. To believe in him without proof. Yet, he then gives us the proof that we need. At Cana, he tells Mary that it is not his time, yet turns water in to Wine. 

I truly believe that this can happen in our own lives as well. When we have faith, and continue to pray and believe, God will place signs in our life to affirm us. However, he tells us over and over again not to expect these signs. God will reveal himself through our faith, through the Mass, and through prayer. For me, in a world of instant gratification and immediate access to information, faith can be challenging. Yet, the knowledge that God will reveal himself if I believe, even if it is not his time, helps me to get through that doubt. It helps me to double down on my faith rather than shying away or looking for something else to fill a void.

There is a lot of information in the notes this week, so please be sure to read through everything. I hope that you all enjoy the long weekend! 

God Bless,

Mr. O'Neill

Monday, January 17 - No School - MLK Day

January 24-28 - Parent-Teacher Conferences

Friday, January 28 - No School - Conferences in AM

Sunday, January 30 - Catholic Schools Week Mass at 10 (Reception to follow)

January 30 - February 5 - Catholic Schools Week

Friday, February 4 - No School - Teacher Appreciation Day

Tuesday, February 15 - PTO Open Meeting

Now that winter seems to have finally come, please make sure that you are aware of our winter weather policies. As temperatures drop and snow and ice begin to fall, our priority is always to keep our students and staff safe. However, we also do not want to miss any more school than we have too. We will make determinations about school closure as soon as possible so that we can give you as much warning as we can. That being said, it is ultimately up to the parents on whether or not you feel safe bringing your child to school, as we all have different circumstance.

If school is canceled, you will be notified via text and email through Flocknote, as well as a notification through Class Dojo. Cancelations will also be listed on KVOE, The Emporia Gazette, and WIBW. For the most part, we will follow the cancelation decisions made by Emporia USD 253.

It is very unlikely, however, that we will ever delay the start of school. If the 253 school's delay their start because of the weather, chances are we will begin on time. Again, it is your decision to bring them on time, late, or keep them home on those days. 

The family posters went home on Friday. Please take time to talk about them and complete them together as a family. 

Our school theme this year is “In Christ I can” found in Philippians 4:13. This verse reads “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Of course that does not mean we can do anything we want. What it does mean is that when we seek our Lord in prayer, when we align our will with the Lord’s will, the Holy Spirit will fill us with His grace. It is by God working through us, through His grace that we then “can”, as expressed in this year’s theme.

Our school is blessed by faithful families. We all are working towards a closer relationship with our Lord. On the attached “Family Poster” we want families to highlight what they are doing as a family to grow in God’s grace. What fruits of the Holy Spirit (Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, Self-Control) has your family been given, and how are you using those gifts? For ideas, you can read Philippians chapter 4, with your family. See what the Holy Spirit says to you through the reading.

Families may use whatever media (collage, pictures, glitter, colors, etc) they would like to decorate the attached poster. Posters need to be returned to the school by January 25.  Posters will be on display after the All-School Mass January 30, during the parish social as we “Celebrate our Parish”.

Do you have a special talent? We want you to share it with the school! Every student K-5 is invited to show off a special gift that God gave you. This is for fun, it is not a competition, but we do encourage every participant to practice at home. Partner and group presentations are encouraged as well!

The talent show will take place on student appreciation day (Tuesday, February 2nd) during Catholic Schools Week. The show will be streamed for parents to view. Any student wishing to participate must follow the guidlines below: