Dear Parents,

The renowned Catholic author, Henri J. M. Nouwen, in his inspirational daybook “Bread for the Journey” asks a thought provoking question: Where is Jesus today?

Each morning I am privileged to recognize Jesus’ presence among us as you drop your beautiful and precious children at the door of Saint Francis Academy. Their smiling faces, happy greetings, and bright healthy eyes attest to the fact that your children are well loved. Their shining shoes, pressed uniforms, and bulging lunch boxes (and bookbags!) are evidence that you sacrifice much of your time preparing and organizing your children for a successful day of school. You then rush off to your own demanding careers and household chores.

Just as the magnitude of Jesus’ sacrifice was misunderstood or unrecognized by many, so the sacrifices made daily by parents are frequently underappreciated. The pressures and values of contemporary life make your job as a parent ever more difficult.

Nouwen’s answer to the question “Where is Jesus today?” is … we who receive the Body of Christ become the living Christ.” The greatest gift you can give yourselves and your children is the gift of the Eucharist. Sharing faith and religious tradition with your children strengthens families and helps you to face the challenges met daily as parents. Each morning as you approach Saint Francis Academy with the gift of your children you help spread the Gospel message to a world desperate for the good news. You are the living Christ.