The Defender
February 16, 2024
A Message From Mrs. Tate
Dear SMA Families,
Thank you for your support and love this week. Our prayers are with all who experienced the tragedy at Union Station or lost loved ones. Two of our Archdiocese schools were especially impacted. Please keep the St. Agnes and Bishop Miege communities in your prayers.
We had a beautiful Ash Wednesday Mass with a packed church. Thank you for supporting the school community in beginning our Lenten journey prayerfully. We loved seeing so many families join us. We welcome you to our weekly Stations of the Cross services, as well. Each Friday during Lent at 2:30, we will hold an all-school Stations of the Cross service. Please join us when you are able!
We will also offer all-school Eucharistic Adoration during Lent. Beginning Monday, February 26, the consecrated host will be exposed between 8:30-12:00. We would love to have parents and families join us for adoration during Lent. Adoration is a wonderful time of reflection and prayer. Some ideas for adoration:
- Be there. Sit quietly in Jesus’ presence. Leave the world at the door and adore Him for all He has done for you and humankind.
- Pray the rosary. Through meditation on the rosary, we can feel closer to God and his Blessed Mother.
- Write in a Prayer Journal. Writing allows our inner thoughts to come forth to process our true feelings.
- Pray on your own. Simply bow before Jesus and let the Holy Spirit lead you.
- Read. There are so many options available…Scripture, daily devotional books, religious books, books about the lives of the Saints…the options are endless.
We hope that you can join us for just one of the prayerful events during Lent. Having our SMA family pray together is a powerful witness to Jesus Christ.
You wrap me in Your fierce and protective love, Your mighty wings drawn tight around me as the enemy rages against me. Your promises carry my fear far away and calm my heart. They are my shield and my strength. Thank You for providing all I need in times of trouble. Psalm 91:4
May God bless you and your family always,
Diana Tate, Principal
Parent Formation – February 27
In our next parent formation session, we will dive into the beauty and true meaning of the human body and sexuality. They are both a beautiful gift from God! When we use our sexuality correctly - we show God’s love by loving as He loves. Let us learn together how to better protect, guard, and cherish the gift of human love! Please join us!
If you are interested in preparing before the session, we’ve included some Theology of the Body resources below:
YOU - Life, Love, and the Theology of the Body
Theology of the Body for Teens (Middle School) - Parent Edition
Theology of the Body for Teens - Parent Edition 2
The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality. Pontifical Council for the Family, 1995.
Living Out Theology of the Body | Dr. Edward Sri (video)
All for the Heart of Jesus, through the Heart of Mary!
Sr. Lucia Maria Sol, SCTJM
Campus Minister
Presidential Service Award
Just a friendly reminder that St. Michael the Archangel School is participating in the Presidential Service Award again this year! All recipients will be recognized at the 8:15 Mass on Go Forth to Serve Day! I have attached information regarding the award and ideas for service hours. The forms that need to be completed and turned into the front office by April 3 are available on our school website under student life. If you have any questions, please contact Megan Morris at morrisfamily516@gmail.com.
VSL Updates
☘️ The March Fun First Friday is available here.
Dennis Uniform
SMA School Activities
Parish News
Knights of Columbus Fish Fry - Desserts Needed
Fish Fry season kicks off February 16! This year we want to feature homemade desserts to help us stand out among the fish fry options in the area. Making a homemade treat is a great way to get your kids involved and help support the parish. All parishioners are invited to help. Cakes and cupcakes are always popular treats! Even something as simple as crispy rice treats are loved and scooped up quickly. Check out all the suggested items here.