March 25, 2024

Dear St. Raphael School Families,

As we embrace Holy Week, we enter into a profoundly sacred time of reflection and commemoration, marking the culmination of Jesus' earthly journey. This week holds special significance for Christians worldwide, as we prepare to celebrate the transformative events leading to the joyous feast of Easter.

The Lenten season of sacrifice and self-denial, drawing to a close, has paved the way for a more profound engagement with the Passion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. At the heart of Holy Week lies the Easter Triduum—three pivotal days of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday.

On Holy Thursday, we reverently reenact the Lord's Last Supper, the poignant evening shared with His apostles before His betrayal and arrest. This liturgy is a breathtaking expression of our faith, culminating in the washing of feet—a powerful reminder of Jesus' humble service. It was during the Last Supper that Jesus instituted the Mass and the Eucharist, central to our Catholic tradition.

Good Friday, a day of solemn reflection, bears witness to the crucifixion and death of Our Lord. The veneration of the Cross takes center stage as we approach to kiss the Cross, expressing our profound gratitude for Christ's sacrificial love.

Holy Saturday becomes a vigil, a time of expectant waiting for the glorious Resurrection of Our Savior. This period of anticipation and reflection is a testament to the transformative power of faith.

We invite you to join us on Holy Thursday at 11:00 am on the school field for a prayer service, a beautiful moment to honor Jesus and His ultimate sacrifice. Please note that on Holy Thursday, students will be dismissed at noon, allowing them to embark on a well-deserved Easter vacation.

May this Holy Week be a source of inspiration, renewal, and profound spiritual connection for you and your loved ones.

Important Dates:
March 28: Holy Thursday. Noon Dismissal
March 29 – April 7: Easter Vacation

In Mary's Love,

Ms. Michelle Limb
Principal, St. Raphael School
We praise you in this Easter season. Change our lives, change our hearts to be messengers of Easter joy and hope. We make our prayer through Jesus Christ, our risen Lord forever. Amen.