Advent begins tomorrow, November 27. It is a time when we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Bishop Walkowiak writes in his Advent reflection, “Advent is the most countercultural liturgical season of all. It coincides with the end of the year. Americans of means are bent on buying, selling, partying, rushing around, and yes, worrying. Psychiatrists say that this time of year is the most stressful of all. How ironic that this should be so as we prepare to welcome the Prince of Peace.” 

Thanksgiving Day is typically thought of as a national holiday, however, the idea of giving thanks also is an essential part of daily Catholic life. As a Church family, we celebrate a thanksgiving meal every Sunday within the context of the Mass which is first and foremost a prayer of thanksgiving. In fact, the word Eucharist comes from the Greek for “thanksgiving.”

Meet Eve, the new four-legged addition to the Catholic Central staff!

Article and data graph provided by NCEA. 

Leesburg, VA – According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), Catholic school students performed at or near the top in reading and math compared to public schools coming out of the pandemic. On October 24, NAEP, also known as the Nation’s Report Card, released its findings for math and reading for grades 4 and 8. NAEP is considered the most consistent measure of U.S. student achievement over time and a lens into student success.

We are pleased to announce that Brad Sturgell has joined our diocesan Office of Catholic Schools as our new Grand Rapids Area Catholic Elementary Athletic Council (GRACEAC) Program Director. He began his role on November 7.

National Vocation Week (November 6-12) is a special time set aside to celebrate religious vocations and those God has called to serve the Church in this way. Catholic schools in the Diocese of Grand Rapids are proud of their graduates who, like St. Peter, have responded when the Lord said “Come, follow me.”

Please join us in welcoming Matt Tevlin as the new Education Technology Specialist in the Office of Catholic Schools! He began his role on October 31. 

This past Thursday and Friday, all Catholic schools in the Diocese of Grand Rapids were closed so teachers and leaders could participate in professional development. The Michigan Association of Non-Public Schools (MANS) 2022 Education Conference and Expo pulled private school teachers from all over Michigan to Lansing for education, connection, and encouragement. Educator formation is a crucial element of Catholic schools and an important part of the vision of our diocese, which focuses on outstanding educational ministry. 

The past three days, where we honor our beloved saints and pray for departed souls, can be referred to as the triduum of Hallowtide. Catholic schools are exceptionally busy during Hallowtide - balancing the societal demands of Halloween, as well as recognizing the sanctity of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. From pumpkins and trunk ‘r treats to pilgrimages and plenary indulgences, our schools have a lot to share.

Meet Lola, the newest addition to the All Saints Academy staff!