First Things First

Dear Families,

We are nearing the halfway point of Lent. Many of our students are preparing to receive sacraments during this ultimate period of preparation.

In moments of deep distress, it can be hard to recall 'first things'. I will forever remember when a wise man once told me, "we have to keep first things first". Otherwise, our lives can become disordered or even unhinged.

What is the first objective of our school's mission (It is so much easier to answer this question than it is to articulate an entire history curriculum)? Our school exists to empower young people with the tools needed to become fully alive, and to enter into eternal communion with God, who is ultimate life.

A traditional and true idea has always permeated the Catholic lifestyle: our lives are a massive preparation effort. In this season of Lent, we prepare for that redemptive moment when Christ transformed our existence into a new beginning.

At MRA, our goal is to encourage young people to minimize the noise and cultivate a habit of seeking God's voice. Our institutional knowledge indicates that since our school's inception in 1994, there has been at least 1 conversion per year. Each year, at least 1 student has listened to God's voice, answering the call to enter into that new communion with Him - the Catholic Church.

2nd graders have asked their parents to receive the sacraments and teenagers have decided to join the mystical body of Christ. This is the best indicator that as long we keep "first things first", we will participate in the fulfillment of God's Kingdom on earth. It is also a great consolation to know that grace overcomes all of our own weaknesses, so long as we remain open to God's voice - His loving plan for our redemption.

"This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:35).

Yours Truly In Christ,

Derek Tremblay