May 24, 2026

This week our Saint George School eighth grade students reach a landmark in their young lives as they graduate. Our parish has a long and proud history of support for our school. Even parishioners who do not have children in the school recognize its importance and value. Our goal at Saint George School is to pass on the Catholic Faith and offer a superior academic experience for our children. Those goals are achieved only with family support. I wonder how many times these graduating students gave their parents a hard time getting out of bed for school? Or how many delay tactics were used to avoid doing homework? I would guess the same number as our parents gave to their parents!

I take great pride in our school, and so should you. Our principal, Mrs. Pratl and her wonderful staff work hard every day to make Saint George an experience of growth in faith, knowledge and maturity. Our students are prepared for high school. They learn self-discipline, which is a key to success at every stage of life. Whether it is in studying, practicing a musical instrument or learning teamwork on the court or field, all of these disciplines lead to success.

Please keep our young people in your prayers. High school can be a landmine of temptations, awkward growth and broken hearts. It is also a time to excel and shine bright with honest, hard-earned achievements. I am confident that Saint George has given them a strong foundation to be good Christians and citizens. Good luck and God’s blessings, Class of 2026!

As we celebrate our graduates this week, so our nation honors those who gave that last full measure of devotion and sacrificed their lives for our freedoms. Each Memorial Day we remember our fallen heroes and honor those living among us. The dedicated service of our veterans is immeasurable, as is our gratitude. On Monday, Mass will be offered at 9 AM. Right after that, I will dash off to the 80th Avenue train station for a community Memorial Day commemoration. I invite you to join me for both.

This will be a busy time for veterans. In consideration of that,
Saint George will have a special Mass honoring our vets on Flag Day, June 14 at the 11:30 AM Mass, followed by a reception. On this 250th anniversary year of our independence, we celebrate all who have contributed to our great country.

As you fire up the grill and pop open a cool beverage, let’s not forget the sacrifice this Memorial Day represents. God bless our country and may our leaders guide us back to peace and prosperity for all.