Hello, Dear Parents!

It is hard for me to believe that we are nearly to the end of June. Our next newsletter will reach you on July 1. We are very busy here, with going over work turn in by students, making plans for next year, creating a very condensed virtual VBS, sorting through registrations, scheduling sacramental preparation programming, and searching for catechists.

This week, the US Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) asks us to pray about and celebrate religious freedom, with a different focus each day. July 24 the focus is the lack of religious freedom in China. Being without Mass for so long, caused me to think of our persecuted brothers and sisters, who find it hard, or impossible to worship and receive our Lord in the Eucharist. The pandemic has put us in the place they routinely find themselves. I find myself praying in solidarity with them during this time. Even as we can cautiously return to Mass, many more are still restricted. Each day, the Bishops give us an area to pray for regarding religious liberty. From Catholic Schools, to the Border Wall, to Places of Worship, to China and the Central African Republic, it's clear that a respect for the inalienable right to freedom of religion is lacking around the world. Keep praying for those imprisoned and persecuted for their faith, whatever it is, and be thankful for the freedoms we enjoy.

One focus for the bishops is Civility. In our country right now, there is an increasing amount of NON-civil discourse, as each group screams louder and louder. The only true way to peace is to listen to one another. Right now is a great time to talk to your kids about dignity. Check out this clever way to get kids thinking about real love. The bishops ask us to "Pray that God would give us the grace to remember the dignity of all and invite others to do the same." AMEN.

Looking for a way to talk about diversity with the family? St. Veronica offers this interesting activity as a jumping-off point.

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VBS will be VERY condensed this year, with two online segments focused on Hope to be posted on the website by mid-July. As we get closer, there will be a place to register online to pick up a small activity kit for each day. Mean-while, boys and girls, be sure to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine outside.

Guess what one of our stories with be.

A reminder that Confessions start at St. Veronica on Saturday July 4th, at the usual times. If its been a while, going to confession can bring a great feeling of liberation on this day we celebrate liberty. Take the family and follow up with an ice cream treat. You will still have time for a cook-out and fireworks. I promise you will feel a wonderful sense of freedom!

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