STAFF CORNER

 

In the September edition of America, Archbishop Timothy Dolan of New York penned an article entitled, “The Future of Catholic Schools.”  In a suggestive prose, Archbishop Dolan communicates the many challenges currently facing Catholic Schools today, and suggests a systematic approach to strengthening and sustaining them for years to come.  Like so many others in Catholic School leadership, Archbishop Dolan believes the decrease in Catholic school enrollment can be attributed largely to the following three reasons: demographic shifts, increased costs, and a shift in the thinking of some American Catholics about the importance of the schools.  He proposes the only way to reverse this trend is for the entire Catholic community to recommit themselves to the mission of Catholic education.

 

In light of Archbishop Dolan’s comments, it can be argued the next few years will be critical for Catholic schools throughout our nation.  Their success or failure will ultimately depend on the initiative and foresight of the Catholic population and its leadership. It is up to all of us to convince families to spend more of their discretionary income on tuition, to support the entire parish, and commit to programs of stewardship that will help all parish ministries. Only through these combined efforts will Catholic schools continue to be able to offer strong academic programs, an equally rigorous program of religious instruction and a culture that has a clear Catholic identity.  

 

So as we enter into National Catholic Schools week, let’s heed the call of Archbishop Dolan, to regain our nerve and renew our confidence in the jewel that is the Catholic school. 

 

                                                Chad Berndt

                                                Principal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Scripture Readings for February 5, 2012

Jb 7:1-4,6-7, 1 Cor 9:16-19,22-23, Mk 1:29-39

 

 

 

 

Bulletin Deadline: Monday noon

claudia@st-charles.org

 

 

 

 

 

Winter Picnic Carry In     The St. Charles Pastoral Council invites you to join us at a Winter Picnic Carry in on Sunday February 26th after the 10:30 Mass in the lower level of the church.   With winter in full force we thought it might be nice to bring a slice of summer to your life.   Hot Dogs, Hamburgers and Drinks have been donated to the event.   The only admission is that those attending to bring your favorite summertime picnic dish to share. The dish that you make that is everybody’s favorite. Your deviled eggs, or your pineapple upside down cake, or your baked beans, or your macaroni salad - you get the picture.   Bring your favorite dish, yourself, your family and join us for a summer picnic in the heart of winter.   You can RSVP by telephone by calling Joyce Gerdeman at 419-339-8690 or register easily online by going to: www.StCharlesSurvey.com   Please do this by February 15, 2012 so we have a count for the hot dogs and hamburgers we need.