It is hard to believe we are now in October and the end of the first quarter, October 14, 2016, is fast approaching.  Please work with your child to ensure all missing work and assignments are completed in a timely manner.  In general, we have had an unusually high number of family vacations since the start of the school year.  Although we understand many absences due to illnesses or preplanned special events cannot be in this category, families must realize general vacations should not be organized for the school year.  When a child is away for a week, the child misses forty hours of instruction that cannot be regained.  Upon his/her return the class has moved onto the new material, and for the absent child this can be overwhelming.  Teachers work very hard to help the child regain that knowledge, but nothing can replace the in-class instruction with peers.  I realize parents do ask for the work ahead of time, but if this request is done, please ensure the child does the work.  We are all here for the children.  Let us work together for the benefit of learning.  We do have many days off throughout the year that can be used for vacations.

Our auction committee is very busy planning for our number one fundraiser.  Tickets for the Saturday, November 5th event are now on sale.  This evening promises to be one of great fun and fellowship.  Please send in your responses as soon as possible so as not to miss out.  The committee has stressed that checks can be given for payment of tickets.  There was some confusion that only credit cards could be used.  This is incorrect. Checks should be made out to All Saints Catholic School HSA.  Thank you to all the chairs, committee members, sponsors and donating agencies for all they are doing to ensure the success of this event.

Within the Catholic Church, the month of October is dedicated to the Rosary.  Although the exact history of the early Rosary is unclear, traditions first have its Catholic connection to St. Dominic (1221) who had a vision of our Blessed Mother.  There is still considerable debate over this tradition.  Regardless of its origin, it is a set of prayers that is widely associated with Catholic faith. Prayer is a way to help us get in touch with God and develop a relationship with Him.  In prayer, we speak to God, but we also are open to the communication from God. The Rosary is both a vocal and meditative prayer that allows us to talk and listen to God through the four mysteries of the life of Mary and Jesus Christ. In our crazy busy lives, we all need meditation and contemplation to find our spiritual and peaceful places.  The rosary fulfills this need.  It is also an opportunity to place our needs before God.  I encourage all our families in the month of October to join All Saints every Friday at 7:30 AM in the school lobby to pray the Rosary.  I also encourage every family to pray the Rosary as a family during this special month.  I am positive this powerful pray will help us all grow in Faith, love, and understanding.