We work for the education and formation of the students in a thoroughly Catholic atmosphere. As a newly consolidated school we will be striving to blend two strong educational traditions.
Over the front door of the school there is an open book with the words: "Way to Heaven". This was placed there by the founding pastor of St. Justin Martyr, Rev. Victor Lambur. We want to spend some time this year reflecting on these words and the experiences we have as we enter new places and meet new people. God invites us to view every door we open as a "way to heaven". Passing through each doorway, we have the opportunity to meet Christ in the people we will encounter, to discover God's plans for us each day, and to bring Christ to the people and situations as well.
Our theme for this year's reflection and student retreat and activities is based on the Parable of the Talents. This will help the children and staff to experience the goodness with which God has blessed each one of us and the joy we have when we use these gifts in the service of others. Blending the charisms of the Ursuline Sisters and the Sisters of Notre Dame who have served our two schools, we have a deep experience of God's goodness and provident care as well as a commitment to work toward the formation of a just and peaceful society based on Gospel values.
Our two patrons give us particular virtues to develop as well. St. Mary Magdalene, whose heart was captured by Jesus and his message, was sent by him to spread the good news of His resurrection on the first Easter Sunday. St. Justin Martyr came to Jesus after long years of studying the secular knowledge of the second century. The Gospel made good sense to him and drew him to faith in Jesus and such a deep love and conviction that he gave his life rather than renounce Christ. Together these two saints will help us to attend to the hearts and minds of our students as we help them become productive
citizens of this world and members of God's kingdom.
Through the Vibrant Parish Life initiative in the diocese and the local consolidation of our two parish schools, God is leading us to step out of our comfortable places, and into an experience of the wider church community. God is calling on each of us to take a more active role in our church and school, recognizing that it is OUR church and school, and that we are called to take initiative in imagining and working toward the future configurations of our parishes and schools throughout the diocese.
As a school community we have the opportunity to meet with people who share our vision on a daily basis throughout the school year. Faculty meetings, newsletters, our daily work, and informal interaction every day help us to grow as a community of faith. We "stand on the shoulders" of all the generations that have gone before and built up the Catholic schools of our diocese, and we are committed to continuing to provide the best education for our children in a faith-filled environment.
Jesus told his disciples to go and teach all nations. We are participating in this mission every day as we help to open minds and hearts to Jesus. In particular we are responding to his words: "Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." (Mark10:14)
Written on behalf of the SMM-SJM School Board
by Sr. Mary Quinlan