Letter from the Principal - April 2020

By Mona Passman, Principal
April 7, 2020

Dear parents and guardians,

My hope is that you are enjoying a well-deserved Spring Break, even though it’s like none other we have ever experienced. COVID-19 has put a halt to many people’s plans. Traditionally, some families and students escape town or head south. Other families enjoy time at home. Many students look forward to the extra hours at work to earn money. This year’s Spring Break coincides with Holy Week when Catholics and other Christians observe the Triduum at their local parishes. We also come together to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ at Easter Sunday Mass.

Like many of you, I am trying to view my life through a different lens these days. My prayer for each of you is that you find many blessings to embrace during this year’s spring break. We continue to miss so many of our day-to-day activities and yet, we are given an opportunity to slow down.  

I am not one to travel south over break so I won’t miss that. The furthest south I ever travel is along 35W to Kansas to see my family. I am sad that I cannot travel to see my own mom and other family until this virus passes. As I mentioned in my letter last week, my silver lining is that I find time to connect with my mom on the phone more than ever.

For those who do travel south to enjoy the warmth and sunshine, we are blessed with beautiful spring-like weather right here at home. We certainly haven’t enjoyed mild spring weather in a long time. It’s easy to get outside and take a walk or work in the yard. I cannot believe the number of plants that have emerged from the ground already, including the crocuses. 

Extended family gatherings for Easter dinner will likely be canceled. I imagine many of you will miss the opportunity to see parents, aunts, uncles, siblings, and grandparents. This time with extended family has been replaced with more time for immediate family. A number of you have reached out to tell me how much you are cherishing this time with your kids at home. Take advantage of this time. Our newer slow pace allows us to connect more fully. I fear we will lose this time when life gets “back to normal,” so embrace it now. 

My biggest regret is the loss of the Triduum liturgies. I know there are many people who share my disappointment. Holy Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil bring Catholics and Christians together to celebrate our faith and the resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Parents, you are your children’s greatest teachers. Use this unique time and experience to help them understand the meaning of the Resurrection.   

While we cannot gather at our own parishes to observe this holiest of seasons, I understand the meaning of “We are Easter people,” more fully than I ever have before. Yes, we will likely remain in the darkness for some time yet. Keep the faith. We will rise up and we will rejoice!  

Many blessings to you this Easter,
Mona Passman