Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ,

Last weekend I was with the parents of our children who are preparing for their first reconciliation. I always appreciate this time with parents to speak to them about the sacrament and the gift that God’s mercy truly is. During our time together, I had our deacon-intern, Lawrence Duthler, share his own testimony and experience of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. During his talk, he also discussed how much he values Catholic Education. Lawrence explained that his children have an opportunity to receive the Eucharist and the Sacrament of Reconciliation at school. Of the many reasons to send our children to Catholic Schools, the best reason is simply this, the opportunity to grow as a disciple of Jesus in a learning environment. Our parish has 15 children in Catholic Schools. I would love to see that number grow. May we continue to pray for the success of our Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Grand Rapids.