FROM THE PASTOR

Catholic Schools Week 2025

Saint Paul instructs us that we are all one in Christ, Jew, Greek, Slave or Free. In our humanity, when we are rooted in Sacred Scripture and nurtured by the seven sacraments something emerges from our soul that is most profound: unity in Christ.

A weekly image from Professional Football takes place at the close of each game. It is the friendship and companionship of fellow teammates and competitors. At the end of the game there are always several players who find their way across the grid iron to say hello. Even in the midst of upset fans and coaches, they greet each other with laughter and encouragement. They are friends. Let nothing separate friends.

True competition is steel that sharpens steel. True competition has eyes of gratitude for talent, coaching, and determination. It leads to imitation of the most favored kind. I have been challenged to up my game.

In contrast, there is an opposite attitude that seeks to dominate. Such behavior may lead to humiliation, and even deliberate injury. Recall the various penalties for poor sportsmanship amongst players, and even coaches. Saint Paul speaks that we are called to encourage one another daily. True competition is steel that sharpens steel. False competition may lead to invasion, war and even slavery. Further, Saint Paul teaches that without gratitude for your talent, you will tear one another to pieces. And for what?

As we celebrate Catholic Schools, we salute the progress, and the joy of every student. At Saints Simon and Jude you will find an environment of growth, challenge, and endless possibilities. These moments of inspiration are the motives of the communion of Saints. This is the motivation that leads grandparents, parents, and parishioners to invest time, talent, and treasure in our School. We work daily, understanding that this cooperative effort touches the future. Our students are well aware too of the blessing of Saints Simon and Jude School. We honor our students and our students honor one another. Every student is encouraged to come prepared, come full of light, full of creativity, to shine brilliantly as sons and daughters of Lord. This game plan leads to successful students, fulfilled families and a society of courtesy. 

Every day at the morning assembly we put on Christ. Job one: every day is an adventure,
a cause for unity.

God bless you,
Fr. Mike Gerlach.