Last week, I encouraged us to choose the way of thanksgiving. In this week’s letter I follow my own advice. Here in no particular order are my “Atonement Thanksgiving Top Ten.”
Atonement Teachers. We are blessed to have a skilled, dedicated faculty. Each teacher goes about his or her work in a way that shows forth Christ to our students. A few minutes of observing one of them work with your children is enough to renew my passion for our Mission.
San Antonio, Atonement’s Hometown. What a beautiful city! My newcomer’s eye is especially drawn to all the green spaces and to the network of city trails that run through them. If you travel beyond the city limits in any direction and it is hard not to run into a state park, nature preserve, or wilderness area.
Class Sponsors. This new initiative has gotten off to a great start. The 9th Grade Sponsors hosted a well-attended and well-received Glow-in-the-Dark Capture the Flag showdown for Upper School students, while the 8th Grade put on a similar event for the Middle School. The 12th Grade Sponsors, with significant help from the seniors themselves, received rave reviews for their fall swing dance.
Speaking of the Seniors. They are a model of dedication to the school’s Mission and of concern for younger students. It has been a pleasure to partner with them in the leadership of the school.
Cold Fronts that Hit During Carline. If you have seen our coats and hair flying in the wind as the whole Northern Hemisphere seems to exhale through the piazza, then you know what I mean. A moment of high drama.
Father Lewis. Since I have been here, he has allowed me to lead and been extremely supportive. Father Lewis is a true shepherd and our parish is fortunate to have him.
Texas State Highway Loop 1604? The Watsons’ search for a rental house this past summer didn’t land us as close to the school as we had hoped. The silver lining? I get to spend quality time in the car with my two oldest children every day. We pray, talk, listen to classic (audio)books, and debrief our days.
The Deans. I daily depend on the experience, insight, and good judgement that Dr. Lamascus and Mr. Creech bring to the running of our school. If you have noticed timely communication, teachers who feel supported, and general good order this year, then you have witnessed the fruit of their labors.
The PTC. Whether they are raising funds, praying for the school, putting on events, or helping a teacher cover lunch duty, PTC President, Mrs. Pro, and her team exemplify servant leadership.
Intimacy with Christ. I don’t remember if daily Mass and nearness to Christ in the Blessed Sacrament were listed among the benefits on my contract, but they should have been. It is not only proper that a school should have at its heart the one who is Truth Himself, but a great blessing.