Principal’s Letter

At Ash Wednesday Mass yesterday, Fr. Crispin told us that, “Lent is about joy and happiness.” It is about renewal and growth. He reminded us that it is not all about fasting and sacrifice but about giving more – more prayer, more time for others, more service. He was delighted to hear about how Matthew M., Liam M., Jack O., Wyatt K. and Rowan O. helped the Knights of Columbus with the fish supper and said that their service was an example of what we all need to do, especially during Lent.

It was lovely to have our first in-person Endowment event in two and a half years. Thank you so much to all who gave so willingly and generously to the Endowment, and to Ethan Stowell Restaurants for providing the welcoming space and delicious food. It was delightful to see everyone.

I know you are all anticipating the news about masking. You have helped us get this far, and we are hopeful that we are entering the endemic phase. According to Public Health – Seattle & King County, lifting the mask mandate does not mean that COVID is over. We ask you to continue to be patient, respectful and to follow the recommendations. Please read the COVID Notice: Masking Guidance post in this week’s NewsViews carefully. I cannot emphasize enough, when mask mandates are lifted at school, we are committed to supporting families and staff who make the choice to continue mask-wearing.

I end this message with a prayer that Superintendent Kristin Dixon shared this week:

 Taizé Prayer for Peace

Risen Christ, as we remain in silence before you, we let this ardent prayer rise up: may the firing of weapons in the land of Ukraine cease! Welcome into your love those who are dying from violence and war, console the families in mourning, support those who have had to take the road of exodus. Faced with incomprehensible suffering, we still believe that your words of love and peace will never pass. You gave your life on the cross and you opened a future for us, even beyond death. So we implore you: give us your peace. You are our hope.

Amen,

Bernadette O’Leary