From the Office of the Principal...

Ms. Barbara Wehnes

"In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high will break upon us... to guide our feet into the way of peace."

                                                                             [Luke 1:78-9]

Happy New Year! May 2012 be filled with laughter and joy for you and those you love. And may we be ever mindful of the many blessings we share here at Saint Matthias School.

The month of January brings us to the halfway point in our school year. The students have reviewed their lessons from the past and have gained new knowledge on a daily basis. We've learned that Jesus is our Brother and that He walks with us through the events of each day. We've experimented, wrote stories, praised God in word & song, and even made butter and pumpkin bread! We've been busy the past four months, and we look to the future filled with hope and excitement. Our second Progress Report will be distributed in early February.

Our seventh graders are preparing for the sacrament of Confirmation. They are praying for the wisdom to recognize the Holy Spirit's gifts and the courage to use these gifts to build up God's Kingdom. Please continue to support these fine young men and woman as they grow in faith.

Our second grade is preparing to receive two important sacraments this year. The children will meet Jesus in a special way through First Penance. First Communions will be celebrated over many Sundays after Easter. All parents who have students receiving sacraments this year should be attending the Sunday parent meetings during P.R.E.P.S. If for some reason you have not been able to attend thus far, please contact the rectory to inquire what steps need to be taken to make sure your child is prepared to receive the sacraments. Parents must request First Communion dates through the rectory, as well. If you have not already done so, please make this a priority.

January ends with the celebration of Catholic Schools' Week 2012. We have planned a week of special events including our opening liturgy, several open houses, student appreciation day, special person's day, and teacher appreciation day. Our Book Fair has returned, too. A detailed schedule of events will be sent through each student's folder and made available at the school office. We look forward to your family's participation! Open registration for 2012-2013 will begin during this week, as well.

I can't close this letter without, again, acknowledging the wonderful generosity of our school volunteers. Our Christmas Show was a tremendous success. This wouldn't have been possible without the selfless efforts of our Show Committee under the leadership of Sandra Hallinger & Vita Russo. So many volunteers worked tirelessly behind the scenes on costumes, props, set up, purchasing, and ticket distributions. Combine their efforts with all who helped with decorating, orchestrating the performances, and the clean up, and you have the perfect example of teamwork benefiting our children. Thank you to all who volunteer! We are most grateful to Mrs. Reyna Hernandez & Mrs. Santana for helping us to acquire the new decorations. The annual Christmas Show is a favorite event for our children and a critical fundraiser. We couldn't do it without your support!

Barbara Wehnes, Principal