Our Lady of Mount Carmel School
Our Lady's Word        

Upcoming Events  Calendar
 

Wednesday, 3/6

Spirit Wear Day  

SACS Early Dismissal, 2pm  

Thursday, 3/7

Discussion Group with Sr. Maria Joseph, 9:30am     

Friday, 3/8

All School Mass, 8:15am

Stations of the Cross, 2:15pm   

Grades posted to Edline  

Report cards go home   

Sunday, 3/10

Hi Ho Silver Event, 5-7pm 

Tuesday, 3/12

Rosary, 8:15am 

Thursday, 3/14

Pi Day   

Discussion Group with Sr. Maria Joseph, 9:30am     

Friday, 3/15

All School Mass, 8:15am

Stations of the Cross, 2:15pm  

Saturday, 3/16  

St. Patrick's Day Parade  

Ladies Night Out   

Tuesday, 3/19

Rosary, 8:15am 

Spring Program, 2pm  

Wednesday, 3/20

SACS Early Dismissal, 2pm  

Thursday, 3/21

Discussion Group with Sr. Maria Joseph, 9:30am      

Spring Program, 6:00pm

Middle School Open House, 6:30pm   

Friday, 3/22  

All School Mass, 8:15am

Stations of the Cross, 2:15pm  

Grades posted to Edline 

Saturday, 3/23

New Student Testing 

Tuesday, 3/26

Rosary, 8:15am 

Wednesday, 3/27

Catholic Bee, 1:45pm  

 

March 28-April 7th  

Easter Break  

 

Monday, 4/8

School Resumes  

    

 

Bingo Schedule
  
Next Upcoming Bingo Night:
Monday, March 11, 2013
 
Families Scheduled
Floor Duty:
Austria, Arnulfo
Degnon, Thomas
Dinh, Phong
Domzal, Karen
Murawski, Mike
Sikes, Kirsten
Taylor, Jeffrey
Wojtas, Christy
Wojtas, John

Kitchen Duty:  
Dowling, Crystal
Ryan, Patrick
Taleghani, Christine

Floor Captain:
Wojtas, John

In the event that a substitute is needed for your night, please contact Julie Hill at 757-596-2754.  

We would like to thank the families that worked bingo the past few Mondays. Out of uniform passes are available at the Knights of Columbus on bingo nights. Please pick up one pass for each student in your family. If you forget to pick up the pass that night, they are available in the Front Office. 
 

Pilgrim Virgin Schedule 

Winter Schedule 

    

 
March 5-11
Hallare family

March 12-18
Diongzon family

March 19-25
Kus family

Please pick the statue up no earlier than Tuesday and return by Monday. May God bless your time with Our Lady and may she enliven the presence of Jesus in your home and your family. Our unity in prayer will surely bring 
many graces to our school and community.

Adopt a Cardinal 
If you or your family would like to adopt a cardinal to pray for, please visit the following website:
http://www.adoptacardinal.org/


Parents Helping  
Parents 
An OLMC family is looking for another family to car pool with to or from school. They live close to the school and are located near CNU. If you are interested in this opportunity, please email the Clark family at

Save The Date!

 
Vacation Bible School will be held at OLMC this summer from July 8-12th. The theme this year is "Kingdom Rock: Where Kids Stand Strong for God!"

Please watch the OLW for future updates and registration information.

Summer Programs  
at OLMC!

 

OLMC School is interested in creating some summer programs to educate and entertain children this summer. We are open to all types of courses including robotics, science camps, language courses, crafts, sports camps, and more. If you have a talent or skill that you would like to share and we invite all parents, teachers and friends to consider our summer program. If you are interested in leading a course or teaching a class, please contact Mrs. Tucker at  

ctucker@olmc-school.com Please be sure to include what you could teach and what age group you are interested in.  

 


All Are Welcome!
Stations of the Cross    
You are welcome to join our school as we attend Stations of the Cross together this Lent. Lenten Stations will be held every Friday at 2:15pm
in the church. 

Junior Youth Group   

    

Come on, live on the
EDGE with us!


 All youth, grades 6-8, in public and private school, are invited to join the OLMC youth group!

Upcoming events: 


March 15th-17th
The Diocesan Youth Conference will take place in Hampton, VA at the Hampton Convention Center on March 15th-17th. Current 8th graders and above are welcome to attend. Registration forms are due before Feb 14th. If anyone has any questions or would like a form, please contact Christina.

*Don't let payment stop you from registering your teen. If you have any questions or would like more information, please feel free to contact Christina at 595-0385 x128
or by email at:  

CHKD Classes Around the Blocks 

 

CHKD offers classes on many topics for kids, teens, parents and grandparents. Most are free but registration is required because space is limited.

Upcoming Classes:
Playful Parenting-
A Fun Approach to
Positive Discipline

Learn how to help your kids ages 2-10 develop greater confidence, express feelings, recover from emotional upheavals, express love and have fun at the same time!
Wednesday, April 10th
6:30-8:30pm

For locations, please call
757-668-9304
 
 For a complete list of classes, or to register online
please visit: 

 

Parenting Classes Offered by:
  

Here, Now and Down the Road...Tips for Loving Parents
This class fosters a positive parent-child relationship and enhances parents' skills in guiding their children toward safe, healthy and
productive lifestyles.

February 1st-March 29th
Friday Mornings, 10am-12pm
(no class March 8th
or March 15th)

Active Parenting of Teens
This program offers an effective approach to improving parent-teen interaction. Parents will learn to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts and discuss difficult topics.

Tuesdays, February 12th-
March 19th, from 6-8pm.

The Impact of Media
Violence on Children  
This workshop will address facts related to media violence, what to teach young children about media, and strategies to reduce the impact media violence has on young lives.

Monday, March 25th
from 6:30-8:30pm

Child Bullying Prevention
This workshop will teach the effects of bullying, why children do it, and what to do if your child is being bullied.

Tuesday, March 26th
from 6:30-8:30pm

Classes are free!  
 
To register or for more information, please call
(757) 886-6511 or email delores_price@bshsi.org
 

 

Is Christ calling you to serve Him in others as a sister, brother,

 deacon or priest?

Call Father Michael Boehling
 (804) 359-5661 or email: 
 

mboehling@richmonddiocese.org
Crusader Connection

    

 Are you a new family this year? Or are you looking to know more about the happenings at OLMC?

 

You are invited to read our monthly newsletter "Crusader Connection" to learn the ins and outs of OLMC. If you would like to be on our distribution list, please email Christine Dugan at

 
Have Something to Share?

Please send all information that you would like to be included in Our Lady's Word to  

Christine Dugan at  

cdugan@olmc-school.com 

 

The deadline for entries is Mondays at 5pm


Like us on Facebook 
For the latest pictures, postings, events and updates, join us on Facebook!
 
Our Lady of Mount Carmel 
Voted the Best Private School in Hampton Roads!

Join Our Mailing List
From the Principal's Desk

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Friends of OLMC,

Many people want to know "What is the Catholic hang up with guilt and sin?"  Doesn't it give my children low self-esteem to think of themselves as sinners?  And actually, I think we're doing pretty well.  I mean I haven't murdered anyone or stolen thousands of dollars, and I tithe to the Church and give food to the pantry...
  
I think we have lost the sense of how profound is the fall of men and women who have inherited Adam's sin - original sin.  Our relationship with God and with one another was supposed to be perfect harmony, joy, delight, and self-giving friendship.  Because we don't live in the experience of this friendship without flaws, we don't accurately perceive how harmful sin is to us and who we are supposed to be - great and amazing children of God, each one unique and and an awesome image of the Creator. 
  
Sin distorts our personality and thwarts our greatness.  What's most cunning and unfortunate about it is that sin acts this way regardless of whether we know it lurks there or not.  The great spiritual writers and saints often compare sin to a deadly poison or disease.  Someone who suffers from heart disease, even if he doesn't know he has it, is vulnerable to an untimely death.  Over time, he has probably chosen a few extra potato chips and too few outdoor hikes, despite the plethora of information on good health.  These choices which are bad for the way the body is made to operate, finally take their toll on its proper function.  Sin can be similar to this.  God has provided ample revelation through the Commandments, the Beatitudes, the life of Jesus Christ, all of Scripture and the Church Magisterium.  He leaves us with a Pope who can teach infallibly on faith and morals (or at least provides for his election if one retires!)  These are infallible guides for our lives.  There are many, many people and many, many Catholics who choose to live a lifestyle contrary to the infallible teaching of the Church. Only God can judge souls and can know whether His people are actually guilty and accountable for sin.  What is of greater concern to me is that the sin is still there, like a poison or a growing heart disease.  The soul is being fed fatty potato chips and is not being given its proper exercise, and soon it will cease to function according to its design.  Sin thwarts the personality and fails to allow the person to develop into the great human person God created him/her to be. 
  
During this Lent in the Year of Faith, let us pray for the courage and the humility to look at our lives, our choices for our lives, and measure them against the teachings of the gospel and of the Church.  Rather than being rules to oppress, truly they are freedom to live according to the way our souls and our bodies are so beautifully designed by God. If we would but remember that we are creatures of the living God, and surrender to His design for our lives, what joy would be our reward!  Since the time of Adam, when he and his wife chose to disobey God's plan for their lives, we've struggled with the natural limitations put on us as creatures.  But there is great joy and freedom in accepting our creatureliness because it enables us to live in the Truth.  We don't need to create who we are going to be - that has already been done for us - and done wonderfully!  Scripture reads, "I am wonderfully made" and we can all repeat that to God's praise.  What I want our children to know and embrace is that God made them and has given them all the gifts, talents, crosses, virtues, and struggles that they will need to become who He made them to be.  Our life's journey and adventure is in discerning His plan.  To do this, we must be free from sin which poisons us, enslaves us, and eventually takes our life.
  
Perhaps this is all just a way of inviting your family to go to confession, especially in this Lenten season.  Be free from the sin that binds your soul and enslaves you to be someone other than your true self.  Delight in belonging entirely to God and knowing that regardless of your sins and failings, He always offers His friendship and His Fatherhood.  Nowhere else will you find such freedom and security than in this realization. 
  
With prayers for your families,
Sister Dominic

1 Million Acts of Service
 

The 8th grade has recently studied civic responsibilities, elements of good citizenship, the need for volunteering in our communities, and the importance of participation in civic life in Civics class.  As a class, the 8th grade is offering a challenge to the whole school to complete "1 Million Acts of Service" before the end of the school year.  This sounds like a lot, but it is possible!

 

 Acts of service could range from large to small acts- the idea is that every act counts.  Examples might include helping a classmate clean up, helping a teacher carry something, holding the door for visitors, picking up trash on the floor, or even things at home such as cleaning a room, completing extra chores without being asked, making a card for a sick relative, or making Mom or Dad lunch.  It could even be committing to pray specifically for someone every day.  

 

 There are notebooks in every classroom, and when a student completes an act of service, he/she (or the teacher) may record it in the notebook. There are also included stickers for teachers to distribute in the beginning and at the "100" mark to spark interest.

 

This is a wonderful opportunity to kick off during the season of Lent.  Our goal is to encourage the students to be more aware of the needs around them and to be proactive and eager to address them and do their part as "citizens" of our school and community. 

   

NJHS Acts of Kindness
 
 
The National Junior Honor Society raised $235.00 for Catholic School students in the Brooklyn, NY Diocese, to help with Hurricane Sandy relief. Way to go students! Keep up the great work!   

   


Middle School Open House
 
March 21, 2013  
6:30-8:00pm 

Open to All 4th and 5th Grade Families!

There is a spirit that dwells within our Middle School that unlike any other. On Thursday, March 21st, we invite you to join us for an informational evening and a glimpse into the faith, academics and middle school life at OLMC! Our school provides a host of opportunities for the middle school students to cultivate their God-given gifts both in school and in their free time. Intellectual, social and service oriented events provide an opportunity for students to learn more about themselves, their peers and the school family they are a part of. Retreats, Fun Nights, Service Projects and Elective Classes are just some of the opportunities that encourage our middle school students to become the saints God created them to be.  

In addition we offer accelerated math and language programs, and present courses that allow students to earn credits for high school. As a National Blue Ribbon School, our challenging curriculum encourages all students to reach their highest potential. Our Lady of Mount Carmel School is pleased to offer a wide range of clubs and activities to boost middle school life both on and off campus. OLMC students are given the opportunity and encouraged to join school clubs which open the door to building new friendships, allow them to explore leadership opportunities and improve academic life. On March 21st, we invite you to come see why Our Lady of Mount Carmel was voted the Best Private School in Hampton Roads! Reservations are suggested but not required. To register please contact Mrs. Tucker at 757-596-2754 or email admissions@olmc-school.com

 


Words of Praise From Mother Ann Marie and Sister Mary Louis
 
 
Last week, Mother Ann Marie and Sister Mary Louis had a marvelous visit when they came to OLMC School. The students did an excellent job of making them feel welcome. Mother said repeatedly "the children are just so sweet." She has exposure to over 30 elementary schools on a regular basis and thought our children were particularly sweet, friendly, comfortable with who they are and spirited. She noted the work in the hallways as being of great quality and cheer, and was delighted that we still teach handwriting. Sister Mary Louis thought the children were exceptionally friendly and the entire environment was so warm.

This is a great testimony to the children that you are raising. As a school, we wanted to share this good news with you and commend you for the kind, loving and well mannered children that you are raising. God bless you. 

   


Calling All Bakers and Dessert Makers!
 
 
If you are interested in baking a cake or preparing a special dessert to be sold the evening of the auction, to benefit our school, please contact Arabella Bercasio by clicking on the link below.


VIMS Marine Science Day
 
 
Saturday, May 18th  
10am-3pm  
Free Admission and Parking

VIMS Marine Science Day is fun and educational for children and adults. Visitors can examine high-tech science equipment, tour a laboratory, collect and observe aquatic animals in the York River, and discover the importance of wetlands in VIM's Teaching Marsh. Cooking demonstrations, mini-lectures and "hands-on" activities and crafts will take place throughout the day.

For more information please call 804-684-7846 or visit 
 

hi-ho Silver
After Hours Jewelry Party
 

 

You're Invited!
Sunday, March 10th, 5-7pm

You're invited to hi-ho Silver in City Center for an enjoyable evening to shop for
Mother's Day, Easter or yourself! Proceeds
will benefit the OLMC school auction.
Refreshments will be served!

To learn more about this unique store, please visit: http://www.hihosilveronline.com/newport-news-city-center 

   

 


School Auction News!  

 

You are cordially invited to attend OLMC's Annual Auction Gala, "Puttin' on the Ritz!"
A silent auction, a live auction and an evening of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and dinner will take place in Saint Michael Hall on April 20, 2013. Invitations are in Wednesday's blue folders and Middle School backpacks. Please check for your invitation and reserve your dinner seats today!

 

Out of Uniform Opportunity: All families are asked to donate two items to the auction! Please turn in your items by March 6th and your children will receive an Out of Uniform Pass. Please check the front office for donation suggestions;  

take a top hat and donate! Or donate  

a creative idea of your own!  In order to receive credit, please make sure a Donor Form has accompanied each donation.  Donor forms are available in the front lobby in the envelope underneath the auction display on the easel.

 

What is needed? Gift Cards to: 
H.H. Gregg, Subway, Visa and Mastercard, Barnes and Noble, AMC Movie Passes, Cinema Cafe, Wine, Plaza Azteca, Target, Busch Gardens Passes, Michael's, Pizza Hut, Domino's or pick up a hat in the school lobby for a donation idea! 
 
The evening is sure to be full of donations, dining, fundraising, and fellowship! Let the fun begin!

If you have questions, please contact  

Tammy (757-593-3621) or  

Julie (757-876-7209)

  

  


Host Family Needed!

 

Nacel Open Door is seeking a host family for an 11th grade male student attending Peninsula Catholic High School through early June. Our F-1 visa students speak English, are fully insured and have their own money for all personal expenses. Host families provide room and board and receive a generous monthly hosting stipend. Nacel Open Door provides 24 hour support. For more information please contact: Karen Mercer (H) 757-721-7345 (C) 757-418-3977  Enjoy a wonderful cultural experience while helping this student pursue his academic horizons!

 

St. Patrick's Day Parade
A Few More Space Available!  
   

OLMC will participate in this year's 46th annual Saint Patrick's Day Parade in Norfolk! Students that would like to join in the fun will be riding on a bus/float and marching along the parade route on Saturday, March 16th!  

 

Participation is first come, first served. Middle School Students may ride the bus without their parents, if they turn in a signed permission slip. Elementary and Preschool Students must fill out a permission slip and be accompanied by an adult. All parents are welcome to participate! Permission slips are available from Mr. Albert or in the Front Office. If you and/or your family would like to participate, please email Christine Dugan at: 

cdugan@olmc-school.com Please be sure to include your student's name(s), homeroom(s) and the number of people that would like to participate. There will be a $3 fee per person to help cover the cost of transportation and gas. We will be leaving OLMC at 7:15am and should return around 11:30am.  

 

If you would like to watch the parade, it is open to the public and we invite you to come cheer on OLMC!  

 

For parade information, please visit: http://www.norfolkparade.com/

 

Lenten Soup Suppers and
Stations of the Cross
 

Each Friday evening of Lent you are welcome to gather for a simple soup and bread meal at 6 PM in the Church Commons. Following the meal, at  
7 PM, we will pray the Stations of the Cross.

The Stations of the Cross will alternate  
each week between  
Spanish and English as follows:  
March 8th - English 
March 15th - Spanish 
March 22nd - English 

Please join us for these evenings of fellowship and prayer. In order that our fellowship reflects the simplicity of the Lenten season, please only bring either a meatless soup or bread to share. 

   


Spring Musical Production 

 

 
Please join us for an energetic performance by
our first, second and third grade students as
they perform the childrens stories Mortimer by Robert Munsch, and Look Behind as Well as Before retold by Kriske. The school production will
be on Tuesday, March 19th at 2pm. And there
will be another performance on Thursday,
March 21 at 6:00PM for all parents, parishioners and friends of OLMC! 

  

There is Still Time to Vote!  
   

OLMC School is in the running for the Best Private School in the 757! This is a contest hosted by Hampton Roads Magazine. We won the contest for the Daily Press, now let's work together to show Hampton Roads that OLMC is truly the Best Private School around!

 

The voting has started and the polls are open until April 1, 2013. You are allowed ten voting ballots per e-mail address each day. Please show your support and vote for OLMC!

 

Click here to vote! 

 

Our Lady of Mount Carmel School unites with family and community to provide a

Christ-centered and educationally stimulating environment, where students recognize their

God-given gifts and achieve their highest potential.