As we bid farewell to a week filled with faith, service, and joyful celebration, we reflect on the incredible moments that made Catholic Schools Week at Saint Maria Goretti Catholic School truly special.
Open House
On Sunday, January 28, hundreds of Pastorate 20 and school families attended our Open House. With student artwork on full display, the hallways and classrooms were alive with the spirit of celebration of our learning. Of course the pancakes, sausages, and eggs were a hit. Thank you so much to the SMG Knights of Columbus for hosting the Pancake Breakfast at the Open House and to all of the volunteers who made it possible.
Daily Themes
Our students embraced each daily theme with enthusiasm. We prayed for our troops and invited parents and community members to tell us about their walk with Christ in their day-to-day lives. From celebrating our community, nation, students, vocations, and staff and families, it was heartening to witness their creativity and dedication as they explored different aspects of their Catholic education.
Dress-Up Days
The school halls were alive with vibrant colors and imaginative outfits as students and staff participated in the daily dress-up challenges. Not only did we see some crazy hair, but also some students and staff “dressing up for Jesus” as Fr. Gabi led a Eucharistic Procession of Our Lord in the Holy Eucharist through each classroom and up to the church. The sense of unity and shared joy was palpable.
Spelling Bee
The Spelling Bee showcased the academic excellence of our students, highlighting their dedication to learning and their impressive linguistic skills. Congratulations to Vincent Bautista, this year’s winner, who will advance to the Madison area Bee this month.
Field Trip
The Urban Air field trip provided students with another opportunity to celebrate while strengthening their connection to their Catholic school classmates and staff. A huge thanks to our SMG Home and School Association (HSA) for sponsoring our field trips.
Service Projects
Acts of kindness reverberated throughout our community as students engaged in this year’s service project, embodying the spirit of giving and selflessness that lies at the core of our Catholic faith. Our week-long collection of personal essentials for the pantry at the Catholic Multicultural Center proved successful; it’s great to know that people in our local community will benefit from our service to others.
Prayer Events
Special prayer services and Masses brought our community together in moments of reflection and gratitude. Fr. Scott helped us kick off the week with morning prayer and a reading of the Gospel of Mathew 5:13-16, of which he reflected on our call to be the salt of the Earth. Msgr. Holmes joined morning announcements with prayers and petitions for our nation and for those who serve to keep us free. The Eucharistic Procession brought a sense of reverence and devotion to our week, allowing us to express our faith in a tangible and communal way. By hosting a school-wide Chaplet of Divine Mercy and praying of the Holy Rosary, students had opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation during adoration, and we ended the week with Candlemas, of which students from Saint Ambrose Academy joined in the liturgy of the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord. The collective prayers and shared worship experiences deepened our bonds as a faith-filled community.
Students versus Staff Volleyball Game
The friendly competition of the students versus staff volleyball game was a highlight, bringing laughter, teamwork, and a sense of camaraderie to the entire community.
Thank you
As we look back on Catholic Schools Week, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible spirit and participation of our students, staff, and families. It is a testament to the vibrant community we are cultivating in Pastorate 20 and at Saint Maria Goretti Catholic School.
Thank you for making Catholic Schools Week a time of joy, reflection, and celebration. We look forward to the continued blessings that Catholic education brings to our community throughout the year and beyond.