By Terry Kathol, Principal

The summer months are at a point where parents and students begin to come to a serious realization that the school year will be here soon. As this realization comes into greater focus with each passing day there can be a myriad of emotions for students as the first day of the year approaches. Many of these emotions can be good as students look forward to the new school year, new classes, new teachers, and the new opportunities that lie ahead. At the same time worry about finding a classroom, meeting new people, and doing well in a class can also exist.

In the book, Crossing the Threshold of Hope, Saint John Paul II talks about youth and says “During that time he searches, like the young man in the Gospel, for answer to basic questions: he searches not only for the meaning of life but also for a concrete way to go about living his life.” The change in a student from the time they enter Pius X as a freshman to the time they graduate as a senior is often amazing to witness. This journey along life’s path is never a straight line and many obstacles can present themselves by searching for God’s truth, beauty, and goodness in their lives and the people around them, students will be better equipped to navigate the journey and work through the obstacles and challenges.

In their search for God’s truth, beauty, and goodness students will see their role in God’s plan for their lives. Like any quest, this search requires some type of map or at least a starting point, a trailhead to use a hiking term. Student’s path for their lives and the realization of God’s plan for them can only come about through prayer with the trust that God loves them and will help them navigate this path. Saint Benedict said, “Whenever you begin any good work you should first of all make a most pressing appeal to Christ our Lord to bring it to perfection.” This quote is a reminder that we must first ask, through prayer, for guidance and through this prayer trust that God will fulfill this most pressing request. St. Benedict also reminds us that we cannot bring about complete perfection on our own but need God’s work in our lives.

Even as students are navigating the school year they should never forget to be patient with themselves. Saint Francis de Sales makes this point when he says, “Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections but instantly set about remedying them – every day begin the task anew.” Each school day provides a new opportunity for our students at Pius X to renew their journey to seek out God and to live the life fully that He has called them to live.

Through the inspiration of these saints, I know our students at Pius X will have a successful school year. I know they will embrace their successes, by giving God praise, and face the challenges by asking God for guidance. I look forward to seeing all of our students soon.