Fresh Growth Leading up to Easter

Here's an update on the Resurrection Gardens we planted several weeks ago - the grass is doing great.

Be Merciful

Lent is a time to grow in mercy. When we've messed up, sometimes we’re on pins and needles until the other person forgives us, and it almost crushes us when they don’t. We’d give anything to rewind the clock and take it back. Scripture says that if we want mercy then we have to be someone who gives mercy. If we don’t want to be judged or condemned, then we shouldn't judge or condemn others. What we expect of others is what will be expected of us. What we give is what we will receive. If you want compassion be compassionate. If you want forgiveness then forgive. God promises that when we treat others the way we wanted to be treated, then gifts and graces will overflow in abundance.

Trusting God with Small Stuff

At times life seems overwhelming. Things crowd in and fear grabs a hold of us. Admitting we’re not in control is too terrifying, because we don’t know or trust God. I don’t think any of us can face uncertainty without someone greater than us protecting us and defending us. It's just too scary. I have a friend who says, “I never bother God with the small stuff.” Which surprises me because I bother God about every little thing. My faith and trust in God wouldn't be as strong as it is today, if I hadn't asked Him to help me with the little things that happen every day. They may be little but they really matter to me. I think that’s how faith grows. When we trust God with the little things, then it’s easier to trust Him when the overwhelming happens. Those little things are where our faith in God grows, step by small step. Then when the bigger things come along, our faith does crumble from the weight of our fear.

Seeing Jesus in Each Other

God dwells within us.  That means that each person understands God in a unique and unrepeatable way.  This is the heart of Franciscan spirituality.  St. Francis believed that God became human because He wanted to enter into our lives, in a way we could understand.  God is constantly communicating through creation and through the best and worst of what it means to be human.  Our frailty reveals God’s tenderness.  Our sinfulness reveals God’s mercy.  Our joy reveals the presence of the Holy Spirit.  The times we are kind reveal God’s compassion.  The freedom we experience reveals God’s love.  The forgiveness we are able to offer reveals that God can do the impossible.  St. Francis believed that we come to know God the more we grow in our understanding of what it means to be human.  All of life can be a moment that reveals God.  We need to train our hearts to see God in each other.

Seeds of Resurrection

Today we created Resurrection Gardens, filling trays with soil, placing a cup on its side as the tomb, creating a path with pebbles and planting grass seed.  Lastly three crosses were placed to represent Jesus and the two thieves crucified with him.  

Dream for Holy Name of Mary College School

Last day for dreaming.  Today we’re dreaming for Holy Name of Mary College School.  I dream that Holy Name will always be a place where the dignity of each person is respected and valued.  A place where kindness and tenderness aren't unusual or trampled on.

Gearing Up for Lent

My Own Little World by Matthew West

Lent is almost here!  Today at the school we started preparing for Lent 2015.

Year of Consecrated Life

Click here to share the story of Sr. Maria Louise Edwards.

Share the story of Sr. Maria Louise Edwards, CSSF​. Sr. Maria Louise took first vows with the Felician Sisters in August 2014. She now serves as the Mission Integration Coordinator at Holy Name of Mary College School in Mississauga.

Hailing from New Jersey​, Sr. Maria Louise was once a full-time actress and model in New York City. But in the midst of worldly success, she still felt something was missing in her life. The missing piece was Jesus. 

Check out the video for her full story and to learn more about her important work in Catholic education in our archdiocese.

Student Christmas Card

Winner of Holy Name of Mary Christmas Card Contest - by Beilun Wu

 

Today's Blessing

Kiki and her smile.

The smile on my face doesn't mean my life is perfect.  It means I appreciate what I have and what I have been blessed with.  ~ Unknown

Words of wisdom from a Grade 5 Christmas card I just received.  Thanks Kiki I needed that encouragement!