Dear St. Raphael Families,
As we step into the beautiful month of October, we find ourselves reflecting on both the blessings of our faith and the events shaping our school community. I'd like to share some important updates and reflections with you.
October is traditionally dedicated to the Rosary, a powerful symbol of Mary's love and guidance in our faith journey. My weekly letters are always signed "In Mary's Love" as a reminder of her presence and connection to our school. At St. Raphael, we encourage our students to grow closer to Jesus through the daily practice of prayer and reflection, honoring Mary, and remembering the miraculous events of Fatima.
As Halloween approaches, I want to share a critical safety concern: the rise of "rainbow fentanyl." The DEA has issued warnings about this dangerous and highly addictive substance, which is being disguised as colorful candy to target children and young people. Fentanyl in any form—whether pills, powder, or blocks that look like sidewalk chalk—poses extreme danger. If you encounter any substance that resembles fentanyl, do not handle it and immediately contact law enforcement. Keeping our children safe is our highest priority, and staying informed is key to preventing harm.
I'm thrilled to report that we are making incredible strides toward reaching our Annual Fund goal of $50,000! The generosity of our school families has been overwhelming, and we are so grateful. However, there’s still time to participate! Remember, 100% participation from our families is crucial in securing grants that benefit all of our students. If you haven’t had the chance yet, please consider donating or sharing our fund with family and friends. Let’s reach our goal together—every gift, big or small, makes a difference. You can donate by clicking here.
Please note, there will be no school on Monday, October 14 due to a teacher training day. Our dedicated teachers will be gathering with colleagues from Catholic schools across the region, from Santa Maria to Simi Valley, for a day of professional development and collaboration.
Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to our community. Together, we are building a strong foundation of faith, knowledge, and safety for our students. Let’s continue to support each other, strengthen our faith, and make this school year one of growth and success for all.
Wishing you a blessed October filled with love, prayer, and unity.
Important Dates:
October 7: Picture Day
October 14: No School. Teacher In-Service
October 31: Halloween Parade
November 1: All Saints Day. School Mass at 10:45 am
In Mary’s Love,
Ms. Michelle Limb, Principal
During the next five weeks, please pray the rosary as a family. Each newsletter will contain one of the joyful mysteries.
The Second Joyful Mystery – The Visitation Spiritual Fruit: Charity and Love
Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth, who learns that she has conceived a child in her old age. Their visit is marked by happiness and thanksgiving as they rejoice in the wonderful gifts of God. Mary, with the Holy one inside of her, makes Elizabeth’s unborn child leap within her womb. Though such a simple visit, both are moved with God’s love and strengthened by His Grace. This mystery teaches us that we are to cherish our encounters with others. Each person God puts in our path is an opportunity to love, and share in the blessings God has bestowed upon us.