Dear Parents, Guardians, and Friends of OLMC,

This week marks the beginning of the Year of Faith for the universal Church and, therefore, for OLMC School. On Sunday, a meeting of bishops and Christians from around the world began to discuss the New Evangelization and the Transmission of the Faith. So vital is this New Evangelization and the adequate transmission of the deposit of faith that all of the Church's energy and resources are being poured into renewing the Church from within. If the Church's mission is to "go out to all the nations" then she must know who she is and what she is about. That is why Pope Benedict XVI insists that it is we, the baptized and the faithful, who are most in need of being evangelized, so that we can confidently take the gospel to those who have never heard the saving message. Throughout history, it is the saints - those whose lives are transformed by the faith - who have been Christ's light to the world. The Church, through the sacramental life, has always had the power to transform sinners into marvelous saints. Pope Benedict XVI is inviting us with fresh vigor, to tap into this power which transforms our own lives and in turn, transforms the world. There are four particular emphases in this Year of Faith which help us to focus our attention. They are, first, the 50th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council (October 11th); second, the 20th anniversary of the publication of the Catechism of the Catholic Church (also, October 11th); third, a focus on the Creed as a summary of what God has revealed for our belief and our response in faith; and finally, the New Evangelization. At our Created for Greatness meeting this month we began to discuss the Year of Faith, which Pope Benedict XVI promulgated in a document entitled "The Door of Faith." Using this title, each faith family is brainstorming, designing and decorating a classroom door in the school with themes particular to the year of faith and one of the four above-mentioned themes. Each hallway will become a reminder of the call to rediscover the joy of believing. Each of us is called to rediscover and renew a life of faith. Look in future OLWs and in the parish bulletin for ways to participate in this year of great graces.

With prayers for your families,

Sister Dominic

Today marks the beginning of the parent survey for the Strategic Plan. The survey will run from October 10th through midnight on October 19th. Please take 15 minutes to provide thoughtful answers to the prompts. The results of the survey are anonymous and will be reviewed and analyzed by a third party. Tomorrow, conference day, we intend to have several computers set up in hallways and in the computer lab for you to complete the survey while you are waiting, or after you've finished your conference. Thank you again for helping to determine the course of the future of OLMC! The survey link is https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/OLMC2012SP 

Runners and walkers are offered 8K and 3K options that traverse the scenic area of the Mariners' Museum, the majestic Lion's Bridge, and the beautiful Riverside neighborhood. All participants receive goody bags, tech t-shirts, and a post-race award ceremony with family fun attractions.  

Everyone is invited! Runners, walkers, adults and children of all ages and abilities are welcome in both events.  

Event Proceeds benefit the students of Our Lady of Mount Carmel School to promote health and well being...mind, body and spirit.   

For more information and a registration form, please visit:  

OLMC Making a Difference Race