January 8, 2024

Dear St. Raphael School Families,

Welcome back, and Happy New Year! I trust that your Christmas vacation was filled with warmth, joy, and cherished moments with loved ones. As we bid farewell to the Christmas season with the celebration of the Feast of the Epiphany of Our Lord, we eagerly anticipate a fantastic 2024 brimming with learning, excitement, and meaningful engagement.

Mark your calendars for a special event on Tuesday, January 30, as we kick off the upcoming Catholic Schools Week (January 28 – February 3). Our school, along with Catholic schools nationwide, will celebrate the unique contributions and values that make these institutions extraordinary.

On January 30, our students will come together for the annual Mass at Bishop Diego High School, joined by students from other Catholic schools in Santa Barbara. This Mass offers a profound opportunity for our school community to gather in unity and prayer, fostering a sense of shared purpose and gratitude. We are truly blessed to have this special occasion that strengthens the bonds of our broader Catholic school family.

As we venture into the new year, let us carry the spirit of togetherness and enthusiasm for learning that defines our St. Raphael School community.

Looking forward to a year filled with growth, joy, and shared achievements!

Important Dates:
January 8: School Resumes
January 15: No School for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
January 22: Jeans for Jesus
January 25: School Mass at 10:45 am
January 28 – February 3: Catholic Schools Week

In Mary's Love,

Ms. Michelle Limb
Principal, St. Raphael School
Prayer for the New Year
O sacred and adorable Trinity, hear our prayers on behalf of our holy Father the Pope, our Bishops, our clergy, and for all that are in authority over us. Bless, we beseech Thee, during the coming year, the whole Catholic Church; convert heretics and unbelievers; soften the hearts of sinners so that they may return to Thy friendship; give prosperity to our country and peace among the nations of the world; pour down Thy blessings upon our friends, relatives, and acquaintances, and upon our enemies, if we have any; assist the poor and the sick; have pity on the souls of those whom this year has taken from us; and do Thou be merciful to those who during the coming year will be summoned before Thy judgment seat. May all our actions be preceded by Thy inspirations and carried on by Thy assistance, so that all our prayers and works, having been begun in Thee, may likewise be ended through Thee. Amen.