January has a lot of good stuff going on. This week we have the feast days of Sts. Vincent, Francis de Sales, Paul, Timothy, Titus, and Angela Merici. I encourage you to look them up and learn more about these great witnesses of the faith. Now that I am back I am looking forward to the Parish Council meeting at St. Casimir on the 25th. There are a few upcoming events there we need to plan and be ready for; hosting the First Communion Retreat is one of them.
Beginning on the 28th of January is National Catholic Schools Week. Our country takes this week to appreciate our catholic schools and what a blessing they are for our country. It is a good time for us as a parish also to reflect on St. Peter’s school and the impact it has had and continues to have on our students. Catholic schools build a foundation in cooperation with our parents and larger catholic community. A school by itself can not overcome social media, peer pressure or a household that is facing numerous issues. A catholic school needs all of us, our witness to Jesus, a life of living the virtues along with our prayers.
We continue with the Surrender Novena, Day 4. “Do you see evil growing instead of weakening? Do not worry; close your eyes and say to Me with faith: “Thy will be done, You take care of it.’ I say to you that I will take care of it, and that I will intervene as does a doctor; and I will accomplish miracles when they are needed. Do you see that the sick person is getting worse? Do not be upset, but close your eyes and say, “You take care of it.’ I say to you that I will take care of it, and that there is no medicine more powerful than My loving intervention. By My love, I promise this to you.” (After that prayer say 10 times) O Jesus, I surrender myself to You, take care of everything!