Message From the Principal  

This week, we lit the second Advent candle. The light is growing brighter as we prepare the Way to celebrate the birth of Jesus and the light He brings to our lives. As you light the Advent candles at home, chat with your children about the many Advent prayers and activities we are doing at school.   Some students are making the images of the Jesse tree. Others are writing the story of the Nativity from the point of view of those who may have been witness to this great Wonder - the North Star, a mouse in the stable, the donkey, a shepherd, or one of the Magi. Students are making Advent wreaths, receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation and engaging in service projects.   At home, continue the message and in the busyness of shopping and baking, allow yourselves time to consider what gifts your families bring to the baby Jesus.  

Tonight, Mrs. Becky Kelly will lead the students of grades 3 - 5 in their Christmas Program. On Tuesday, December 18, Mrs. Pat Tsagalakis will lead the students of preschool, kindergarten, grades 1 and 2 as they raise their voices for Christmas. These concerts promise to be very uplifting.

Mr. Anthony DiSapio, President of Bishop Blanchet, visited St. John last week. He attended Mass and introduced himself to the school, toured the campus and met with Fr. Crispin, Mr. Kelley and myself. We discussed ways the schools can enhance communication, and he shared the many successes of our alum, telling us that so many are on the academic honor roll! He congratulated our teachers, saying that the students are well prepared for high school.

Bernadette O'Leary  

   Parish Christmas Mass Schedule

• Children's Mass, 4pm

• Children's Mass, 6pm

• Mass, 9pm

Tuesday, December 25

• 12am - Midnight Mass
• Mass, 9am  

   CHRISTMAS EVE CHILDREN'S MASSES

The Star of Bethlehem was a special beacon to the shepherds that heralded the birth of the Baby Jesus on the first Christmas Eve. How does the light of that wondrous star still guide us to Jesus today? Are there other symbols of light that, like the star, guide us to Christ?  

We are asking children to bring a symbol of light to the Christmas Eve Masses. It could be a flashlight, a flameless candle, a photo or colored picture of a candle or light - something that represents the beacon of the Star of Bethlehem.

These symbols will be blessed at the 4pm and 6pm Christmas Eve children's Masses as we celebrate the beautiful gift of Jesus' birth.

We are fortunate to have the Cantionis choir join us for the 4pm Mass, and the Schola assist us at 6pm. Please remember that we cannot allow more than approximately 600 people per Mass, so please plan accordingly. Also, we are asking that you do not reserve seats unless you are a choir member, Mass participant or a related family member. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. The parish is making every effort to ensure that the Masses are a joyous celebration for everyone.

2013/2014 Tuition Assistant Grants
for
In Parish and Out of Parish Families

Fulcrum Foundation Hossfeld Tuition Assistance Program applications are now available for the 2013/2014 school year.  Please visit the Fulcrum Foundation to apply.  Grants for parish members help offset the difference between the actual cost to educate and the amount of the family's pledge.  Grants for out of parish students reduce the amount of tuition owed by the family.  Out of parish families considering a request for financial aid from St. John School are required to also apply for a Fulcrum grant.  Apply online and provide a copy of your application and supporting documents (2011 tax returns, etc.) to St. John School, attention Diane Crockett not later than Friday, February 8, 2013.  If you have questions or need assistance in completing your application, Mrs. Crockett is happy to help.