Weekend Wisdom - November 16th, 2025
2025 Belated All Saints Day Celebration
Rising Up Together: Forming Future Saints
Recently, our school community gathered for a joyful, though slightly belated, celebration of the Solemnity of All Saints at St. Mary Church—our first pilgrimage of the school year. Traditionally, our second graders, who are preparing to receive the sacraments of Reconciliation and First Eucharist later this year, research and dress as saints for this special liturgy. As our second-grade “future saints” processed into church, their voices joined in prayer and song, led by a beloved retired teacher. Those few sacred minutes offered a beautiful glimpse of what it truly means to strive for holiness in community.
The All Saints liturgy reminded us that sainthood is not reserved for a select few; it is the universal call of every Christian to live with holiness, humility, and love in our daily lives. It is one of the great privileges of Catholic education that our teachers and students can speak openly about this call each day, guiding one another along the path of faith and virtue.
The following evening, we gathered again for our major fundraiser, Rise Up Raiders Night. It was a beautiful event filled with laughter, generosity, and the unmistakable sense of community that defines our school. As I prepared my welcome remarks, the theme of community was once again at the forefront of my mind. I found myself reflecting on the All Saints Mass the day before, the tireless efforts of staff, parents, and volunteers, the prayers offered by parishioners, and the many small but meaningful connections that bind us together each day. Truly, what makes our school special is not only what happens inside the classrooms—it is the people who surround, support, and lift one another in faith.
As November invites us into a season of reflection and gratitude, we extend heartfelt thanks to the many families, parishioners, and friends who support our school through prayer, service, and stewardship. Your witness makes it possible for our students not only to learn about the saints, but to begin walking that same path of holiness in their own unique ways.
May we continue to rise up—in faith, in hope, and in love—trusting that, together, we are forming the next generation of saints in the schools and churches of our community.
With Heart and Soul,
Molly Mares
NDDP Principal