From the Desk of Sister Maria Christi

July 15, 2024

Dear Saint James School Families,

Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year! I hope this summer has been a happy one for your children and a time for rest and recreation for your families. I am delighted to be named the new principal of Saint James Catholic School and I look forward to getting to know each of the families and individuals who make up this wonderful community. Last year, I lived in Texas, but originally I am from Cincinnati, so I am grateful to be assigned to Saint James in Elizabethtown, so close to my roots in Ohio.

This week, Sister Mary Grace has been introducing me to SJS and I am very encouraged by the school’s vitality and evident strengths. I am grateful for Sister Mary Grace’s competent leadership and to be joining such a vibrant school and parish community.

Gathering as a school community to begin a new school year is a time of blessing and renewed awareness of God’s providence. The school year theme comes from the gospel of Saint Matthew:

Let your light shine. Matthew 5:16

When Sister Mary Grace mentioned this verse from Saint Matthew’s Gospel, I associated it with Jesus’ Divine Mercy image, where light radiates from His heart. For the source of our light is His light, as seen pouring forth from His merciful heart. This image of Divine Mercy, which has a prominent place in Saint James Church, depicts Jesus who gives us His own life to be light to others, to be His mercy in our world. May we live this school year in the light of His Divine Mercy so that it may be a time of growth in love and mercy for all our students, faculty and families of Saint James Parish and School community.

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Mark your calendars for our “back to school” events! Our Open House for all families will take place on August 5 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. From 6:00-7:00, we will welcome our new families in PreK-8th grade for a New Family Meeting in the cafeteria. On August 20, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., we will host a Parent Night. We ask that at least one parent attend. Though the evening is geared toward parents, children may attend with you if you are not able to find childcare. We will begin with a presentation in the gym, followed by visits to each of your children’s classrooms. This evening will provide you with an overview of the school year, expectations, and an opportunity to meet other parents as we begin the new year.

In a separate email next week, you will receive your child(ren)’s class list. We send this before the school year begins to help relieve any anxiety among our students regarding who their teacher or classmates will be.

You are in my prayers each day and especially as I participate in the National Eucharist Congress this coming weekend. I am looking forward to getting to know each of your children and the families of Saint James Catholic School. Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Sincerely in Christ,

Sister Maria Christi Greve, O.P.
Principal, Saint James Catholic School