Then children were brought to him that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked them, but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
Dear Friends in Christ,
Welcome to Saint Patrick Catholic School! The Church teaches us that "parents are the principal and first educators of their children" (CCC 1653). We are honored that you have chosen to partner with us in this profound responsibility. It is a sacred trust and I pledge that we will hold the dignity and well-being of your children in the highest regard.
As your pastor, I will seek to be a good shepherd for you and your children. This begins with loving care, grows through understanding, faith, and prayer, and comes to fulfillment by the grace of the Holy Spirit alive in your hearts.
Fr. Steven Reeves and I are active in the daily life of our parish school community. We are in this adventure together: empowering the hearts and minds of your children to be followers of Jesus Christ "for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Of course, your children are more than the future Church, they are the "young Church." A great future lies before them as they encounter Christ and are formed and educated to become the next generation of passionate and committed civic, corporate, and religious leaders. Each of them is uniquely called by God to develop and offer their gifts in the service of the world; to contribute to the common good and make a significant and lasting difference.
The noble task before us demands integrity. We must foster in our own lives a dynamic, faithful, growing, joyful and real relationship with Christ. We, too, are His disciples called to love God and our neighbor. Our school will only be as effective as our witness is authentic. All of us together - parents, priests, administrators, teachers, and our entire community - join in the mission of creating a cool Catholic school shaped by a vibrant Catholic culture which promotes academic excellence.
Your children are a gift from God. Our vocation to educate and pass on the faith is very ordinary and human; lived out in thousands of daily moments. It also, however, shares in the divine work of God, as it is a work of great love. Ultimately, our common goal is for your children to be truly happy. May God be with us in this high calling!
Peace in Christ,
Fr. Jeff
Rev. Jeffrey P. Shooner
Dear Parents,
Welcome to the St. Patrick Catholic School community.
St. Patrick is a Catholic elementary school that serves students in junior kindergarten through eighth grade. Prospective families choose our school because of our formative academic program, but most importantly, because we are committed to the mission of the greater Roman Catholic Church. St. Patrick is fortunate to have an outstanding team of teachers, who work closely with parents to educate your most precious gifts – your child(ren).
Our parish-school continues to pray for Pope Francis, that he may be strengthened in his ministry of being Christ for our Roman Catholic Church and showing Christ to the world.
Sincerely yours,
Nathan M. Sturtzel
Mr. Nathan M. Sturtzel
School Principal
St. Patrick Catholic School
502-244-7083