Dear St. George Families,
This coming Sunday marks the beginning of Advent. The day we can finally begin our countdown to Christmas! When I was a child, we had an Advent calendar that began as an empty stable with 24 tiny hooks attached. Each day, we added a person to the nativity scene.
One day we added a boy playing a trumpet. The next we added a little girl holding a goat. Soon there would be shepherds, animals, wise men, and angels. And on Christmas Eve, baby Jesus would be there in the manger, resting in the gaze of Mary and Joseph.
Christmas is such a beautiful day, but I have to admit, my favorite time of the year is the whole Christmas season including Advent. Advent is the beginning of a new church year. It's a perfect opportunity to reflect on how we're doing at living a life of love, joy, and purpose and to "begin again."
The joy of Advent is all around us these days, in the cheery music, in the warmth of a cup of hot chocolate, in the laughter that each family gathering naturally brings, in the Christmas movies that bring back so many memories, Advent truly is a time to be joyful, and to thank God for all of the joy in the world.
When one of my siblings placed the baby Jesus on our Nativity scene, I was able to say that I embraced the Advent season. I took a break from worrying about things that aren't as important, and that I decided to live a life of joy and love.
The Advent Wreath on my kitchen table reminds me each day to reflect on my answers to these questions. How will I prepare for Christmas during this Advent season? How will I show God's love and joy to the world?
God bless,
Jack Nelson
Farewell
It is with mixed emotions that I inform you that Mrs. Linda Dutriex will be leaving St. George School effective November 30th. Mrs. Dutriex has been a valuable member of the St. George Staff for the past 12 years. Mrs. Dutriex has always been willing to jump in where needed and support our students, families and parish. While I am sad to see her leave, I am happy to wish her well in her new position. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers as she transitions to her new position.
