Father's  Notes

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Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Dear parishioners,

We just completed our first week of school at St. Joseph's School.  It was wonderful to see all the smiling faces on the students (and a few dour ones too!)  Many of the parents were smiling too.  Yes, it is back to school time.  I know that we will have a great year. 

Catholic education is valuable.  The Catholic school system in the United States was founded by the U.S. Bishops to give Catholic children the opportunity to learn more about their faith.  They did not have this opportunity in the public school system that was set up in this country.  In fact, there was quite an anti-Catholic mentality at the time.  The bishops realized this, and they wanted to do what they could to make sure that Catholic children would know about their faith, and to grow in it. 

The Catholic school system that we enjoy today is the result of the efforts of the bishops, priests, religious, and lay people who dedicated themselves to this cause.  We are the beneficiaries of one of those schools here in Chehalis.  St. Joseph School has been around for more than 80 years.  It has provided numerous young people with an excellent education and a firm grounding in our faith.   The school has been, is, and will continue to be an important part of our community. 

It takes a commitment by the entire parish community to ensure that our school will continue to be vital and strong.  One important way is through the prayers that we offer.  Praying for God's assistance is necessary for the success of anything in our lives.  Volunteering at the school helps in this endeavor.  Our financial support of the school is important too.  The SUCCESS campaign is one way of providing financial assistance to our school.  Our theme this year is "Growing in faith at St. Joseph School."  Please help our school to be a vital part of the community for the next 80+ years by doing one, or all, of the three suggested ways of helping.  Your generosity will be greatly appreciated. 

We can do anything Christ Jesus our Lord,

Fr. Tim Ilgen