Pastoral Message: Proclaim Jesus Christ is Lord!

Dear Parish Family,

As Americans, our hearts are filled with gratitude and pride as we celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This historic milestone reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who secured the blessings of liberty for future generations. As people of faith, we recognize that our freedoms are gifts from God and carry with them the responsibility to live virtuous lives. Let us continue to pray that Almighty God will abundantly bless our nation and that the Holy Spirit will bring healing, wisdom, and unity to our people.

One of the greatest blessings entrusted to our parish is Saint Mary School. For nearly seventy-five years, our school has been at the very heart of our parish mission, partnering with parents in the formation of children in faith, character, and academic excellence. Five years ago, we embraced the Catholic Classical Liberal Arts model of education, and it has transformed our school in remarkable ways.

A Catholic Classical Liberal Arts education is much more than an academic program. It seeks to form the whole person—mind, heart, and soul. Students are immersed in the timeless pursuit of truth, beauty, and goodness, while every subject is taught through the light of Jesus Christ and the teachings of His Church. Students encounter the great works of literature, history, philosophy, art, music, science, and mathematics, learning not simply what to think but how to think with wisdom and virtue. Above all, they are formed as disciples of Christ, prepared to serve both God and neighbor.

As Pastor and Director of Saint Mary School, I can assure our entire parish family that our school offers a truly superior education rooted firmly in Jesus Christ. Our faculty and staff are dedicated to forming young people who love God, pursue excellence, and live with integrity. Our mission can be summed up in a simple phrase: we are forming saints and scholars. There is no greater investment we can make than in the minds, hearts, and souls of our children.

The Church reminds us that Catholic education is not solely the responsibility of parents with school-aged children. Canon Law teaches that the entire parish community shares in the responsibility of establishing, supporting, and maintaining Catholic schools. For almost seventy-five years, generations of Saint Mary parishioners have embraced that responsibility with extraordinary generosity and sacrifice. Because of their vision and faithfulness, countless children have received a Catholic education that has shaped their lives and strengthened the Church.

In the Gospel, Jesus tells the parable of the "pearl of great price." When the merchant discovers this priceless treasure, he joyfully gives everything he has to possess it. I truly believe that Saint Mary School is that pearl of great price for our parish. It is one of our greatest treasures—a place where children discover Christ, develop their God-given gifts, and prepare for lives of faith and service. We have been entrusted with something precious, and treasures are meant to be shared.

FR. JEFF KEGLEY | FROM THE PASTOR (CONT.)

Proclaim: JESUS CHRIST IS LORD!

During the months of July and August, I invite every parishioner to take part in our "Share the Mission" initiative. I ask each of you to invite just one family to consider enrolling their child at Saint Mary School. Speak to your neighbors, coworkers, friends, grandchildren, and family members about the gift of Catholic education. Encourage them to schedule a tour and experience firsthand the joyful, faith-filled environment of our school. By simply sharing your enthusiasm and inviting others, you become an active partner in our mission of evangelization.

Together, let us ensure that more families discover the treasure that has blessed our parish for generations. Thank you for your continued prayers, generosity, and love for Saint Mary School. May God bless you and your families abundantly.

In Jesus and Mary,

Father Jeff Kegley

Pastor, Saint Mary, Mother of God

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