Fr. Crispin was so delighted with the students yesterday as they sang out and responded enthusiastically at Mass. We had a beautiful celebration in honor of Mary, Undoer of Knots. Anne Merklin, the homilist, reminded us that we can pray to Mary and ask her to intercede for us whenever we have a knot, a problem, that is overwhelming us. When Kidouse, a second grader, sang the penitential rite we all felt the angels around us! Eighth graders led the responsorial psalm, lifting their sweet voices in praise, making our prayer all the more beautiful. I am quite sure that Mary, Mother of God, was listening and that she was thrilled with the readers, the choir and all the students.

We are very blessed with the gifts of Mrs. Tsagalakis and Miss Pepin who direct our choirs and encourage our students to lead us in song at Mass. Schola, the middle school choir sang yesterday. I know many of you were at Mass last Sunday to hear the intermediate choir, Cantionis. They sang beautifully and helped us raise our voices in prayer. I was also delighted to see that one of our very own fourth graders, Lucy, was an usher. Thank you, choir members and volunteers for coming out and giving of your time to help us with the celebration of Mass.

Next week, school will not be in session Wednesday through Friday for Student/Parent/Teacher Conferences. Check the SignUpGenius (link given last week in NewsViews) to make your appointment if you have not already done so. Prepare your questions and thoughts for the meeting. Do you know what the expectations and standards are for your child? Have you been looking at the homework? Chat with your child before the meeting to find out if he or she has any concerns. This is the time for you to learn about your child's progress in school and for the teachers to learn more about the children and their skills, interests, needs and even their dreams. The teachers are looking forward to the conferences and to meeting with you.

Seņor Pablo and Seņora Blanca left for Peru yesterday and should be arriving at the school orphanage, La Inmaculada today. They will send us pictures soon. Please keep them and their venture in your prayers. Thank you for purchasing pizza and supporting our sister school and parish.

Congratulations St. John graduates!
The following St. John graduates are currently members of the Bishop Blanchet High School chapter of the National Honor Society:

The National Honor Society is more than just an honor roll. The National Honor Society establishes rules for membership that are based upon a student's outstanding performance in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. These criteria for selection are the foundation upon which the organization and its activities are built. 

We are proud of our former and our current students!

• Mark Your Calendars!
  Wednesday, November 12, at 7pm is this year's Auction Kick Off Party! Come get to know your auction team and learn more about the many ways you can help make this year's auction a success.
• Like Pizza?
  We are excited to announce that Patxi's Pizza in Ballard will be helping us raise money as part of their 52 Weeks of Giving program. On Monday, November 17, Patxi's will donate 10% of the day's total sales, to St. John School so be sure to go out and have a slice - it's sure to be the tastiest procurement you've ever done!
• Procurement Donation Drop Off Day #1 - Thursday, November 20
  Volunteers will be available to take your procurement items and forms at morning drop off.
• Volunteers Wanted!
  The auction is a big event and we need your help! We are currently looking for a Volunteer Coordinator, an Art Coordinator, Class Liaisons, and Procurement Team Volunteers (to assist with things like donation drop off days, canvasing neighborhood businesses, and contacting various business via email).
• A very large Thank you!
  Thank you to all the parents who have volunteered to lead Class Art Projects for the auction. Your willingness to help is so appreciated! We are still looking for Art Leads for the following classes: 3 Day Preschool, PM 5 Day Preschool, Mrs. Kelly's 3rd Grade, and both 4th Grade classes.
• Procurement Tip of the Week 
  Now that procurement packets have gone home, start thinking about your network of friends, family, and neighbors. Does anyone in that circle work for an employer that might provide us with something fun and fabulous to bid on at the auction? For example, do you know someone at Amazon who could secure a Kindle donation? Or what about someone at Microsoft - could you get an XBox or XBox games donated? These are just two examples, but there are many others, so start brainstorming.