March 18, 2024

Dear St. Raphael School Families,

As we approach Palm Sunday next weekend, the final Sunday of Lent and the threshold of Holy Week, we are reminded of the poignant events that unfolded in Jerusalem before Christ's crucifixion. This day commemorates the triumphant arrival of Jesus in Jerusalem, as narrated in the Gospels. Palm Sunday derives its name from the palm fronds that faithful worshippers receive, participating in a symbolic reenactment of Christ's entry into the city.

In the biblical accounts, Jesus, a humble figure riding a young donkey, is welcomed with praise and honor. The townspeople spread their clothes, palms, or small branches in His path, an act of homage reserved for those held in great respect. The palm branches themselves carry deep symbolism, representing peace and victory, making them a fitting emblem for this significant day. The deliberate choice of a donkey over a horse adds further symbolism, emphasizing Jesus' peaceful arrival in contrast to the wartime connotations of a steed.

This week, our thoughts and prayers are with our second graders as they embark on the sacred journey of making their First Reconciliation. The entire student body will gather in the church on Wednesday to celebrate this momentous occasion, and we invite you to join us in spirit, sending your positive energy and support.

Your steadfast support remains indispensable to the growth and spiritual development of our St. Raphael School community. We express our sincere gratitude for your unwavering commitment, which plays a vital role in fostering a nurturing and enriching environment for our students.

May this upcoming week be a time of reflection, gratitude, and renewal for you and your families.

Important Dates:
March 18: Jeans for Jesus
March 20: 1^st Reconciliation 1:15 pm
March 22: Stations of the Cross at 1:15 pm
March 22: End of Trimester 2
March 28: Holy Thursday. Noon Dismissal
March 29 – April 7: Easter Vacation

In Mary's Love,

Ms. Michelle Limb
Principal, St. Raphael School

Station Thirteen: Jesus is Taken Down from the Cross	Station Fourteen: Jesus is Laid in the Tomb	Station Thirteen: Jesus is Taken Down from the Cross
Sabbath was rapidly approaching and the crucified ones had to be taken down before the beginning of the Sabbath celebrations. A soldier pierced the side of Jesus with his spear to be sure that he was dead. Mary stayed under the cross with her Son. Jesus was gently removed from the cross. Mary held Jesus. She didn't want to give Him up but she had to. She kissed Him and gave Him to the guards. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be	People had returned to their homes for the Sabbath. John, Joseph of Arimathea, Nicodemus, and Mary, went from Calvary to Jesus' burial tomb. Joseph and John carried Jesus into the tomb. They laid him on the rock bench in the burial chamber. The men moved a big boulder in front of the entrance to block it. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be	Sabbath was rapidly approaching and the crucified ones had to be taken down before the beginning of the Sabbath celebrations. A soldier pierced the side of Jesus with his spear to be sure that he was dead. Mary stayed under the cross with her Son. Jesus was gently removed from the cross. Mary held Jesus. She didn't want to give Him up but she had to. She kissed Him and gave Him to the guards. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be