This being Ash Wednesday, thoughts of Lent may be your first
thoughts for this blog. With our parochial background, we surely were prepared
to follow Christ through the Lenten season in preparation for Easter. The
understanding of service to others through sacrifice and giving of one’s self
was, and is still, paramount in our thoughts and lives.
In hindsight, I prefer to think of our school and what it
represented, Mother Mary. It was our nuns, the Sisters of St. Joseph, in
service to teaching youth for a better future that comes to the forefront. They
in service at our school, St. Mary School and through our parish, Immaculate
Conception Church, followed in Mary’s footsteps. Mary had to understand her
guidance through Archangel Gabriel, in order to help Jesus find his footing in
this world. She nourished him for his entire life. She witnessed his teachings
and supported him until his passing.
She led the way for her son. In following her life, we honor her
and her son. During Lent, we are reminded of suffering and overcoming the
difficulties presented to us in our life on Earth. I prefer to think and
remember the triumphs over the difficulties. The dignity of humanity reigns
triumphant through unconditional love. The relationship of love exemplified by
Mary and Jesus holds fast today. It is also held fast by those who choose to
mirror them.
Alma Mater means ‘nourishing mother’. It would appear that our
friendship as SMFs has been nourished in us by our schooling. This nourishment
was also introduced to us by our families for choosing this education for us.
This choice was made an option by our parish, dedicated to Mary. In turn, our
teachers, The Sisters of St. Joseph also chose to follow in her footsteps as
teachers of a Christ-like life. Last, but not least, we have chosen to continue
our lives in service to Mary and Jesus by our continued friendship, motherhood
and in service as mothers and extended family mentors to others. It would seem
that the meaning of ‘Alma Mater’ is so aptly associated with both our parish
and school…dedicated to Mary, Mother of the Church.
Cathy
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