Letter from the Principal

February 14, 2018

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The publication date of this Communicator is Wednesday, February 14, a notable day for three seemingly unrelated reasons.  It is Ash Wednesday.  It is a long-awaited temperature of forty degrees in February.  It is Valentines Day.

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the liturgical season of Lent.  Together our Cretin-Derham Hall community faithfully observes Lent with Ash Wednesday Mass,  daily prayer, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, an invitation to pray the rosary and reflection on the Stations of the Cross.  Our 7:15 Mass also continues to be offered daily in the Pax Christi Chapel. 

According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, “We are called not just to abstain from sin during Lent, but to true conversion of our hearts and minds as followers of Christ.”

Catholic Christians often focus on what we “give up” for Lent when instead, we should focus on what we will gain through our abstinence, prayer, and almsgiving. 

In the words of Pope Francis,  “Lent summons us, and enables us, to come back to the Lord wholeheartedly  and in every aspect of our life.”  I pray that this holds true for each and every one of us.   

Today is also significant because the forecasted high is a balmy 40 degrees.  All Minnesotans know that February is a difficult month and this warmer day gifts us with a glimpse of spring.  I believe that school communities struggle more than many institutions during the month of February. Our schools are primarily built on relationships among teachers, students, staff, and parents.  At this time of year, we are all susceptible to short tempers, stress, and strained relationships.  This warmer weather may help to ease our frustrations and remind us to practice patience and have compassion for one another.

Finally, it’s Valentine’s Day.  This one is simple.  Happy Valentine’s Day.

God’s blessings and peace to you all.