A Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones!
This year has not been without its challenges and as I address you this season, I call to mind the many sacrifices we have all had to make to keep our children learning. Whether we are teachers, administrators, school staff, or parents, we have all contributed much by way of our time, dedication, and hard work.
These times have seen direct threats aimed at our students. Violence in schools and the constant possibility of disasters keep us on our toes, firm in our commitment to ensure everyone’s safety within the school community.
This season, rather than recalling what we fear most, I choose to honor the good in all of us.
Christmas is a reminder of the goodness that comes into the world even as it is challenged by the darkness of uncertainty. We have seen examples of this throughout the year in the persons of those within the Department who have given much of themselves so that our work may continue. Our teachers have gone beyond their call to do remarkable things like deflect gunmen and protect their students. Administrators and officials from local offices have been outstanding in shepherding their people, in always being quick to offer a word of care and thanks. Our donors too have been on call, ready to engage us, for what little or big needs we might have. Even our students have been good citizens.
It is very difficult to lose hope in the company of great people.
This Christmas, I wish for all of you to rekindle that goodness inside and magnify it. Remind others, by way of gratefulness, that they too have been beacons of good in your lives. Find peace knowing that in your own little way, you have contributed a great deal of good in a world bereft of it.
This season, as we celebrate community and oneness in the pursuit of being good, may we all find joy in each other’s company and encourage each other to do good, no matter the cost.
Again, may you all have a Christmas filled with goodness, joy, and love. God bless us all!
Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC
Secretary