March 10, 2025

Dear St. Raphael School Families,

As we continue our Lenten journey, today’s Gospel reminds us of the profound call to serve others: when we feed the hungry, welcome the stranger, and care for the sick, we are serving Christ himself. Lent is not just a time of personal sacrifice, but also a season of selfless love, reflection, and renewal. It is an opportunity to open our hearts, deepen our faith, and take action in ways that bring Christ’s light into the lives of others. Whether through small acts of kindness, prayers for those in need, or charitable giving, let us all strive to live out our Lenten promises with intention and generosity. Together, as a faith-filled community, may we be the hands and feet of Christ in the world.

The rains we experienced last week served as a beautiful reminder of the power of God’s mercy during this Lenten season. Just as the rain washed away the dirt and refreshed the earth, the Sacrament of Reconciliation cleanses our souls, renewing our hearts and bringing us closer to Christ. Lent is a time for reflection, repentance, and renewal—may we all take the opportunity to seek God’s grace through confession, allowing His love to wash over us like the rain, making us new again.

 Join us for Stations of the Cross – Each Friday in Lent at 1:15 PM, our eighth graders will lead us through this beautiful devotion, guiding us in prayer and reflection on Jesus’ Passion.

 Lenten Lunch Special! – Enjoy a delicious $5 grilled cheese sandwich with fruit, plus tortilla chips and homemade salsa for $2. Lunch is served from 12:00 – 12:35 PM. Parents, you’re always welcome to join us!

 Looking Ahead:

• 2024-2025 Registration: Mark your calendars! Registration for next school year opens March 11-18.
• Tuition Update: To continue providing competitive teacher salaries and cover increasing operational expenses, there will be a 5% tuition increase for the 2024-2025 school year. We remain committed to keeping Catholic education accessible and appreciate your understanding and support.
• Tuition Assistance: Catholic Education Foundation applications are available in the office or through our e-newsletter. Deadline: March 22 – no late applications will be accepted.

Your continued support and dedication to our school community mean so much. May this Lenten season bring you closer to Christ and strengthen our bonds as a faith-filled family.

Important Dates:

March 5: Ash Wednesday. Mass at 10:45 am

March 7 – 17: Registration Week

March 7: Stations of the Cross at 1:15 pm

March 14: Stations of the Cross at 1:15 pm

March 17: Jeans for Jesus

In Mary’s Love,

Ms. Michelle Limb, Principal 

Prayer for Lent

O gracious Master, infuse in our hearts the spotless light of Your Divine Wisdom and open the eyes of our mind that we may understand the teachings of Your Gospel. Instill in us also the fear of Your blessed commandments, so that having curbed all carnal desires, we may lead a spiritual life, both thinking and doing everything to please You. For You, O Christ, our God, are the enlightenment of our souls and bodies; and to You we render glory, together with Your eternal Father, and with Your all holy, life-creating Spirit, now and ever, and forever.