Today we begin with our hearts turned to our Blessed Mother Mary. In this beautiful month dedicated to her, we remember who we are and why we are here. We are created in the image and likeness of God, called to live not for ourselves, but for His will. Mother Mary shows us this perfectly. When the angel came to her, she said with complete trust, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). This is our path. This is our purpose. Like Mary, we are invited to say yes to God in everything we do.

Let us remember her in every action this month. In our work, in our conversations, in our joys and in our challenges. She walks with us, she intercedes for us, and she brings us always closer to her Son.

I look forward to seeing you all this morning at 7:45 at the chapel for Mass. There is something truly profound when we begin our day in the presence of Christ. When we receive the Eucharist with an open heart, something changes within us. We are strengthened. We are renewed. We are filled with a quiet joy and a deep peace that carries us through the day. It is a gift beyond words. A warm and heartfelt thank you to Father Augustine, Father Francis, and Father Edwin from Good Shepherd Church for their faithful love and support of our community.

A heartfelt and proud acknowledgment to Colleen and Anne Boyle and their students. On Thursday, May 7, our Outreach and Advocacy Club will go into the heart of the city to serve those in need. Through the collection of essential items and the sharing of a meal, they are living the Gospel in action. “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). This is who we are as a school named after Saint John Paul II. He taught us to see Christ in every person, especially the most vulnerable. Through this mission, our students are not only serving, they are becoming who they are called to be. We look forward to sharing photos of this meaningful work, a living witness of faith, love, and human dignity.

With joyful anticipation, we also look forward to our upcoming Carnival. There is such beauty in coming together in fellowship and celebration. The dunk tank is already bringing smiles, and Mark Wilkie has courageously stepped forward and said yes, willing to take part for the joy of our community. We invite many more of you to join in this lighthearted and joyful moment. Even in our celebration, let us remember our deeper purpose. Everything we do returns to the Gospel. Everything we do is for God.

Following this spirit of community and mission, we are now approaching our Golf Tournament on May 14. This is one of our most meaningful and joyful traditions, where fellowship, generosity, and purpose come together. It is a day that reflects who we are as a community, united in faith and in support of our students. We invite you to secure your place. Purchase your tickets for golf. Purchase your tickets for the dinner. Come and be part of this beautiful gathering. Every moment shared, every conversation, and every contribution helps build the future of our school and supports our bursary program. It is a celebration of community, a celebration of mission, and a celebration of God’s work among us.

At the same time, we acknowledge that this year the Golf Tournament falls on the same day as the March for Life. This is a deeply significant witness within our Catholic faith. As Catholics, we uphold the sacred dignity of every human life, from the moment of conception to natural death. The March for Life is a peaceful and courageous testimony to this truth. It is a visible sign that we stand for those who cannot speak, that we defend life with love, conviction, and truth.

We are deeply proud of the students, teachers, and members of our community who will be present there. They go as ambassadors of Christ, as witnesses to the Gospel, and as voices for the voiceless. “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you” (Jeremiah 1:5). These words remind us that every life is known, loved, and willed by God. May God bless all those who attend, strengthen them in courage, and fill them with peace as they stand in truth and love.

On June 13, we are blessed to welcome a gathering centered on Opus Dei. With gratitude to Julia Dee for her generous leadership and coordination, this event invites our community into a deeper understanding of holiness in everyday life. Opus Dei reminds us that every person is called to sanctity through ordinary work, family life, and daily responsibilities. This message echoes beautifully with the life of Mother Mary, who lived her vocation in simplicity, humility, and complete union with God. Through prayer, adoration, confession, and reflection, this gathering will be an opportunity to encounter Christ more deeply and to renew our own yes to Him.

Also on June 13, we are honored to host renowned artist John Banovich. His work, known internationally, reflects the beauty and majesty of creation. Through his art, he captures the wonder of the natural world, reminding us of God’s presence in all things. This exhibition will not only enrich our community culturally, but will also support our bursary fund, opening doors for more students to experience the gift of this school. It is a beautiful union of faith, beauty, and generosity.

We are deeply grateful to all who have contributed to our growing magazine. Your voices, your stories, and your work reflect the life of our school. Teachers, we warmly invite you to continue sharing your projects, your activities, and your experiences, along with your photos. These are not just articles. They are testimonies of purpose, community, and mission.

A gentle reminder that our Foundation Board meeting will take place today at 5:00.

As we close, we return again to our Blessed Mother. Saint John Paul II gave us the words that guide our hearts: Totus Tuus, totally yours. May we entrust everything to Mary, knowing that she will always lead us to her Son.