St. Mary's Catholic School
April 27th-May 1st
Peace and blessings to you all!
As we continue through this Easter season, I think many of us can agree on one thing, we are more than ready to say goodbye to winter! Just when it seemed spring had finally arrived, Mother Nature reminded us this past week that late April in Alberta can still deliver one last blast of snow, wind, and blowing conditions. By this point in the year, it is fair to say that many of us are growing weary of winter’s determination to linger. And yet, even amid the snowbanks and cold gusts, there are signs that a new season is indeed on its way. The beautiful image of purple crocuss beginning to emerge offers a quiet but powerful reminder that warmer days are coming. Spring will eventually push through, with new life to unfold. Sometimes, the promise of what lies ahead simply asks us to be patient a little longer. This is a fitting reflection as we hear in this Sunday’s Gospel:
“I am the gate for the sheep… Whoever enters by me will be saved… I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:7-10
In these words, Jesus reveals Himself as the Good Shepherd; our protector, our guide, and the one who faithfully leads us forward, even when the journey feels long or uncertain. Much like these reluctant spring days, young people often experience seasons in their own lives when they feel tired, discouraged, or anxious for what comes next. Academic demands, social pressures, questions about identity, and concern for the future can sometimes make the road feel difficult to navigate. Yet Christ, the Good Shepherd, never loses sight of His flock. He walks before us with constancy and love, calling each of us to trust that brighter days are ahead. His promise of abundant life reminds our students that even in seasons of waiting, growth is taking place.
We are blessed, too, that our students are surrounded daily by adults who reflect this shepherding presence in meaningful ways. Our teachers and staff continually guide, support, encourage, and challenge our young people entrusted to their care. They walk beside them through successes and setbacks, offering not only instruction, but reassurance, compassion, and direction. In many ways, they serve as the hands and feet of the Good Shepherd within our school community, helping each student find confidence, belonging, and purpose.
This message was echoed beautifully during Father Chad’s Easter Mass this week as he shared the inspiring story of Carlo Acutis. Carlo’s life reminds us that holiness is not reserved for a select few, nor is it something distant from the lives of teenagers. He was an ordinary young person who chose, each day, to follow the voice of Christ amid the distractions of the world. Through his faith, joy, and quiet witness, Carlo showed that when we allow Jesus to lead, we discover a life rooted in deeper meaning, hope, and abundance.
It is our continued prayer that our students come to recognize God as their Shepherd and leader, while also appreciating the many shepherds He places in their lives teachers, staff, families, and faith leaders who guide them through each season with care and dedication.
We’d love to invite you to join us for our Open House on Tuesday, April 29th from 5:00–7:00 p.m. It’s a great chance to come together, connect as a community, and experience the joy and spirit that make St. Mary’s so special. Come explore our school, see the wonderful learning happening in our classrooms, and celebrate the many gifts of our students and staff. There will be food, snacks, and plenty of smiles and you can get home in time to watch the Oilers! We can’t wait to welcome you through our doors!
With gratitude,
The STMY Administration Team
Support St. Mary’s while adding flavour to your kitchen!
We’ve partnered with The Spice Age—a proudly Canadian company offering 100% natural, preservative-free spice blends, dips, and baking mixes designed to make everyday cooking easy and delicious. Every purchase made through our link gives back to our school, helping us reach our fundraising goals. Stock up on amazing flavours and support our community at the same time—thank you for making a difference! Click the link below. (Blue Button)
St. Martin of Tours
Holy Trinity
Contact
Email: stmy@eics.ab.ca
Website: https://stmy.eics.ab.ca/
Location: St Mary's Catholic School, Vegreville, AB, Canada
Phone: (780)632-3934
Twitter: @stmarys_veg