End of Year Events – As we near the end of the school year, these past couple of weeks have been filled with many memorable events. Both the Mother’s and the Men’s Club had their last gathering of the year, reflected upon their accomplishments, and bid farewell to those parents whose children will be leaving our school. Some have been parents “in” our school for as many as 18 years, as they have had multiple children go through the school. I want to thank the Mother’s Club officers 2011-2012, Collette O’Brien, President, Fiona Connelly, VP and the Men’s Club officers 2011-2012, Glen Fama, President, Jim Anderer and Kevin Morrison, VPs, and their staff and members for the fundraising efforts that supported the school and the sports program. I know that our Principal, Mrs. Carol Grewal, and I share the same feeling when I say that they’re a blessing to our students, staff, school and parish. Thank you for your outstanding efforts that raise not only funds for our community, but fun and fellowship as well. The Men’s Club also sponsored an end of the year dinner for our volunteer coaches on Wednesday, May 16. The Sports program plays an important part in the development of our children, because through it, they learn not only teamwork, but they learn about themselves. So, thank you coaches for making the time to mentor our young athletes.
Last week, on Wednesday, May 30, our 8th graders had their graduation dinner with their own classmates at the school library, and afterwards, met their parents outside the church hall and entered together for their graduation dance. The graduates had the opportunity to dance with each other as well as with their parents. The following morning, the parish treated the Altar Servers, from Grades 6-8, to a day off from school and fun at Raging Waters in San Jose. We thank them for serving mass each day of the year, including Summer, Christmas and Easter holidays. Without a doubt, our Altar Servers are among the best in the Archdiocese. At our first Friday school mass on June 1, the school celebrated mass and prayed for our 8th graders. That evening, was their commencement ceremony. Auxiliary Bishop of San Jose, Tom Daly, who confirmed this class, was their commencement speaker. Congratulations Graduates! As the Mexicans say, “Vaya con Dios,” “Go with God.”
Fare thee well – As schools wrap up their academic year, Bro. Dat’s assignment with us has also come to an end. I know many of you have enjoyed his presence, so it will be difficult to bid him farewell. While he has many admirable qualities, he has not been recommended for ordination at this time. He asked me to thank you for all the love and support you have shown him while he was here. His last day with us was Tuesday, May 29. He wanted me to share with you that he still hopes, someday, to be a priest. Our prayer for him as he leaves us would be that the Lord would continue to guide him and show him His plans. As the prophet Jeremiah, speaking for God, said “I know well the plans I have in mind for you. Plans for your welfare and not misfortune, plans that will give you a future full of hope” (Jer. 29:11). So hold him in your prayers, as I am sure he will remember you in his. If you would like to leave him a note, you may leave it with us at the rectory and we will ensure that he will receive it. Thank you for your love, prayers and support for Bro. Dat. I also want to thank him for all the time, love and efforts he put into this discernment and formation process. “Vaya con Dios.”
Fr. Dan
