Love Builds Up

This morning, over 340 eager, enthusiastic, energetic, and perhaps a bit nervous, freshmen were welcomed into the Central Cathoic Family. As with all we do here, we began with a prayer, invoking Mary, our Good Mother, through the familiar words of the Hail Mary, to pray for us now, and in the years ahead to the "hour of our death." Brother Tom warmly and supportively greeted the students, laying before them the marvelous journey of growth in faith and knowledge being initiated today. Homeroom teachers and student ambassadors accompanied them on their first offical walk to their homerooms, where another prayer preceeded the morning's announcements. Veteran seniors also arrived today, recalling how just a short time ago they were in their freshman shoes, but now are preparing for this final and best year.
In this era of rancorous arguments in political campaigns, and even more malicious displays of animosity towards muslims, minorities, and the values preached by Jesus and his disciples through the ages, it is our goal at Central to do our best to teach and live the Gospel of Jesus Christ, built on love, unselfish service and sacrfice, and respect for all peoples. It is more than just coincidence that today's opening day falls on the Memorial of St. Peter Claver, the Jesuit priest who expended his capacity to love and his entire ordained life in the service of the African slaves who were brought to Columbia. It was actions such as entering the stench of the slave ships' holds to tend to the dying and ill, as well as to speak about Jesus that fostered the 300.000 conversions attributed to him through the genuine love he brought to people looked upon as commodities by slave traders and owners, but as children of God by him. What a model for our times, what a model for all of us. what a template to present to our students! None of us, and no institution is perfect, but we can and must strive to live as much as possible the way Jesus gave us. May St. Peter Claver and St. Marcellin and all the saints be with all of us as we attempt to do this.
Bro. Rene