The Diocese of Grand Rapids’ Office of Communications issues the following statement from Most Reverend David J. Walkowiak, bishop of Grand Rapids, in response to the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI:

Dear friends of Catholic schools,

The past couple of years we have all had time to think about what matters – the people in our lives, the gatherings, the sense of connection. If you’re ready to be welcomed back, to be part of a celebration like no other ...one that will feed and sustain you ...our doors are open and there’s a place for you.

Gather with us as we await the perfect Christmas gift, our Savior Jesus Christ. Come home to Mass for Christmas!

Meet Anna, the friendly service dog of St. Patrick Catholic School!
 

If you tuned into Jeopardy on December 2, you may have seen a familiar face. Joshua Gregor, a Latin teacher at Sacred Heart Academy (SHA), fulfilled a personal dream and competed on the national game show.

Donate here on Giving Tuesday (November 29): bitly.com/givecatholicwm

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.