Dear SMA Community,
Happy Advent! In this third week of the Advent season, the theme is joy. “Joy is a very real and deep happiness that is rooted in faith and trust. In this third week of Advent, we pause and reflect on the first half of the season, as well as look ahead to the last weeks. The joy that we have and will experience during this season magnifies as we continue to prepare for the coming of Christ, who is full of joy” (University of San Diego Advent Reflections).
Tonight we gather as a school community to celebrate the sights and sounds of Christmas at our annual Christmas Pageant. I look forward to hearing our students sing songs that give witness to this very special time of the year. I hope all y’all are able to be with us!
A reminder that tomorrow (Thursday, December 19th) is a minimum day (12:30 pm dismissal), and there will be NO CUB CARE after school. The school office will close at 1:00 pm so that all faculty and staff may attend a special Christmas luncheon (hosted by Fr. Pat) and begin their Christmas break. School is closed on Friday, December 20th, and will resume on Monday, January 6, 2025.
As we approach the joyful celebration of Christmas and prepare to break for vacation, I want to take a moment to reflect on the blessings of this season and express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for being part of the Stella Maris Academy community.
Christmas is a time to rejoice in the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, whose light shines brightly in our world, bringing hope, peace, and love. Throughout this Advent season, our students have beautifully embraced the spirit of giving and reflection, preparing their hearts to welcome the Christ Child. From prayerful moments during Mass and service projects to joyful celebrations and classroom activities, the love of Christ is evident in all we do.
As we pause for Christmas break, I encourage you to cherish the time with your loved ones. May your homes be filled with the warmth of family, the joy of togetherness, and the peace that only Christ can bring.
On behalf of the faculty and staff, I wish you a blessed Christmas and a New Year filled with health, happiness, and God’s abundant grace. We look forward to welcoming everyone back on Monday, January 6th, to continue growing together in faith, knowledge, and love.
May the light of the Star of Bethlehem guide you, and may the peace of the Holy Family dwell in your hearts always.
Merry Christmas and God bless you!
With blessings and gratitude,
Mr. James Brandt
Principal