Letter to Parents

Dear Parents,

    I hope you enjoyed the spooks and goblins that made their way through the streets of Joplin.  I know we loved the parade of costumed St. Mary’s students who made their way through the halls of McAuley Catholic High School. The Halloween party given by the high school students was highlighted by a number of cards and letters of gratitude from the grade school children.

    As we approach the feast of Thanksgiving, I am reminded of the first winter the pilgrims spent in their new land.  The winter was so severe that it seemed certain the fate of the new settlers would end in the death of all involved.  Mother Nature was working against them and yet through the intercession of God they were spared by the kindness of others.  Because of the benevolence shown by the Natives of the New World, the pilgrims were able to regroup and create a better life for themselves.  Mother Nature humbled Joplin on May 22, 2011 for what looked like a knockout punch to our fair city, but thanks to the generosity of our friends, relatives and volunteers from throughout the world, Joplin will rebuild for a better tomorrow. 

    We as a city have this moment in our lives to reflect on for the rest of our lives.  I though, am also thankful to God for the blessing we find at McAuley Catholic High School, sitting next door to us every day, St. Mary’s Grade School.  The wonderful sight and interaction which takes place between St. Mary’s, St. Peter’s and McAuley Catholic High School is more than just a situation based on circumstances.  It is truly the work of God.  I say this because just a few years ago a very serious discussion took place in reference to the future of the “Simpson Building”.  It was considered to be an eyesore and needed to be torn down to make room for an extended parking lot.  Experts were notified and estimates were made for the cost of razing the building.  The cost was more than the JACS system could afford and therefore much to the dismay of those involved the building remained.  I will always be thankful for the unanswered prayer which left the “Simpson Building” intact and allowed the sounds of God’s most precious gift; life, to be shared by the faculty, staff and student body of McAuley Catholic High School.