Friday Thoughts March 16 2018

Posted on Mar 16, 2018

Dear Falcon Families,

Happy St. Patrick’s Day AND Happy St. Joseph’s Day…As an Irish Sister of St. Joseph, I need to be sure both saints get equal time.

We will celebrate St. Patrick tomorrow evening at a Celtic Dinner immediately following the 4:00 Mass. An authentic corned beef dinner complemented by other Irish libations and some terrific entertainment will make it a fun evening for all.

I wish all could have been present for our prayer for peace on Wednesday. I asked the students to come to church in silence as a way to honor all who have died because of any kind of violence. Our prayer was centered on the need for each of us to be a peacemaker and for us to be mindful of all in our lives who are peacemakers. The “sign of peace”, done so respectfully, was a simple handshake and greeting: “May we be peacemakers today and every day.” I was inspired by the sincerity and attention of each child in Church. May these students be part the generation of leaders who will resolve so many problems that are the result of violent behavior.

Tomorrow, the Parish Men’s Club will be distributing shopping bags to every household in the parish. We are inviting each family to fill the bags with non-perishable food items that will be collected NEXT SATURDAY when caravans of drivers will pick up, sort and distribute the collected items to local food pantries. What a thoughtful and generous Lenten project for the entire parish community.

We have had a number of cases of fifth disease in school over the last few weeks. Symptoms include runny nose, fever, headache and rash, often called the “slapped cheek” rash. Some people get a second rash a few days later on the chest, back, arms, and legs. The rash may be very itchy, especially on the soles of the feet. It can vary in intensity and usually goes away in seven-ten days. Adults with the disease may also experience painful or swollen joints. Once the rash appears, the patient is not likely to be contagious but should stay home for a day or two if the itching is bothersome. We continue to sanitize desks and other surfaces each night and remind the students to wash their hands and try to avoid touching their faces.

We are so blessed to have our mini- clinic. The nurses have been so helpful with diagnosis and treatment suggestions when children become sick at school. Please also remember that they are available for grade level and sports physicals at no cost.

We are extending the Blackhawks raffle until Monday. The game is next Thursday night. Although this has not been the season we all hoped for, the excellent seats at the United Center will give you a great view of the action. Raffle tickets are $10.00 or 3 for $25.00. Just send an envelope with your money to school. (we will fill out your tickets). Good luck!

In honor of Sts. Patrick and Joseph, students may wear a touch of red or green on Monday.

Have a great weekend!