September 26, 2024
In Mark 9:30-37, Jesus’ disciples argue over who among them is the greatest. Jesus calls them together and teaches that true greatness lies not in status or power, but in humility and service to others. He explains that whoever wants to be first must be last, and servant of all. He then places a child before them, saying that welcoming a child in His name is akin to welcoming Him, and ultimately welcoming God.
This passage is a powerful reminder of what greatness really means, and it presents us with a wonderful opportunity to teach this lesson to our students. At St. Patrick Catholic School, we strive to live out Christ’s message by fostering kindness, respect, and honesty in everything we do. These virtues are not just words we teach, but actions that can make a deep and lasting impact on others, just as Christ asks us to do.
In our homes and classrooms, we need to encourage our children/students to think about the power of their words and actions: How can I show kindness today? How can I treat others with respect? How can I be honest, even when it’s difficult? These are not just small virtues; they are the very essence of how we make a difference in the lives of others. In a world where success is often defined by what we achieve, we remind our students that success in the eyes of God is defined by how we treat one another.
However, these lessons are only effective when we, as adults, model them in our daily lives. Whether we are teachers, staff, principals, or parents, we play a critical role in showing our children what it means to be great. Our actions speak louder than words, and it is through our own kindness, respect, and honesty that we provide the best education our students could ever receive.
As we walk alongside our children in their faith journey, let’s remember that greatness is found not in recognition, but in how we serve and love one another, especially the least among us. Just as Jesus taught His disciples, may we continue to model His love in all we do.
Blessings,
Mr. Wiebers
Leader in Me Week is here! Click here to find out more about the activities and out of uniform days scheduled for next week!
Dear Friends of St. Patrick School,
As you are doing your fall cleaning and organizing, please keep our library in mind for book donations. We have lost or ruined books that belong to a series, leaving the series incomplete. Below are some of the books we are missing. We appreciate donations of gently used books, preferably hard cover, but strong paperbacks are also great. To see a list of our missing books, click here.
Thanks,
Lora Sink
If your son or daughter is in the 4th grade or higher and would like to be an altar server, training sessions will be held on Wednesdays October 9, 16, 23 from 1:45 to 3:15 and Mondays October 7, 14, 21 from 5:15 to 6:45. You only need to attend one session. You must register to attend a training session. You can register for the class on Realm.
Training will be held in the church. A parent will need to fill out a short information sheet to help with scheduling. Parents are encouraged to stay for the training, but it is not mandatory. Questions: contact Deacon Al Weber in the parish office by email aweber@saintpatrickcf.org or call 319-266-3523.
All families are welcome!
St. Patrick School has a long standing tradition of family volunteer nights at the Northeast Iowa Food Bank. This year, we are hoping to get involvement back up to pre-COVID levels, but we need your help. The food bank always has great volunteer jobs for us to do that are age-appropriate for our students and give you the opportunity as parents to teach your kids about why the food bank is critical to our community.
Please join us on the 2nd Tuesday of each month (except March) this school year from 6-7:30pm. This is a great way also for the 5th-8th graders to complete their required service hours.
We are limited to 30 spots, so if you are interested, please contact me, Erin Youngblut, at erinyoungblut@gmail.com to register.
Fall Volunteer Signup
Are you looking for a way to get involved at school? Would you like to work with friends on a project, or meet new friends? There are many opportunities to help. Please consider helping as we continue to make this a great school for our students! Click on the volunteer graphic to pull up the Fall Volunteer
Future Sailor Sports Package Available
A sports package is available through Columbus Booster Club for in K-Gr. 8. The package is $20 and includes free admission to all regular schedule Columbus Catholic homes, concession coupon for one free drink and one free candy item. Click on photo to the right for a form to fill out and send to St. Edward School.
Stock Up on Scrip
Scrip cards and certificates are great for gifts and everyday use. Visit our website to find out about our Scrip program. Place your order through your Raise Right account, email scrip@cfcatholicschool.org, or print a paper form.
St. Patrick Catholic School
Clover Patch Preschool Ages 3-5
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Email: office@cfcatholicschool.org
Website: cfcatholicschool.org
Location: Cedar Falls, IA, USA
Phone: 319-277-6781
FAITH
Mrs. Gross and her homeroom led our first Monday Morning Prayer this week. We livestream every Monday for those who can't join us in person.
EXCELLENCE
Our scores from last spring's ISASP testing are outstanding, as Mr. Wiebers mentions in his column above.
