In Abundance

“I have come so that they might have life and have it more abundantly.”

John: 10:10

This past weekend at Mass we listened to the parable of the Good Shepherd, a story with which our second graders are very familiar during their sacramental preparation year. Our students are reminded that no matter how far they may stray from our Lord, He will always reach out to them, forgive them, and love them unconditionally. Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." (John 10:11).

Throughout our lives, God provides us with wisdom, guidance, and truth so that we may fulfill His plan for us. Intentionally or unintentionally, however, we do not always recognize His voice or listen to His direction. During those times, God places others in our paths to help us to choose wisely. He does not give up on us, even when we turn away from Him. Instead, He uses the voices of our parents, teachers, friends, or acquaintances to convey His message.

Embedded in John, Chapter 10, you will find our school motto, “I have come so that they might have life and have it more abundantly.” Some translations use the terminology, “…have it to the full.” Both versions affirm that Christ wants us to lead a fulfilling life. As a school, we embrace this Scripture passage and are committed to ensuring our students are able to enjoy a full and rewarding life. We do this by providing them with a well-rounded education that introduces them to countless opportunities. It is likely most have not yet begun to realize the gifts they have been given or their potential for growth. We, as God’s messengers, have the ability to help provide them with the chance to explore their potential. Our current batch of Crusaders includes future mathematicians, scientists, writers, orators, musicians, artists, athletes, and thespians. They only need to find and develop their passion to pursue God’s calling for them.

This upcoming weekend, 95 of our students (Cast – 62; Crew – 33) will present our Spring Musical Theater Production, Footloose, Youth Edition. They have been working diligently since January and are eager to share what they have learned. Our theater program has been an integral part of our school’s curriculum since 2010, and this year’s performance is poised to be another exceptional endeavor. Numerous alumni have shared their joy in being introduced to musical theater at St. Michael’s School, where their talent blossomed. Many even continued performing as they matriculated to various high schools. Those who are not drawn to singing or acting but enjoy the camaraderie of a production have, instead, honed their skills as technicians -- assisting with lighting, sound, and stage management.

“I have come so that they might have life, and have it more abundantly.” Come and see abundance in play this weekend. You will be duly impressed by what our talented students are accomplishing.

Cast of Footloose, Youth Edition

Deo Gratias, Kathy