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I would like to share a few thoughts with you as we embark on a journey
into a new future. I invite
you to reflect with me in the positive and confident manner that
has always characterized the mission
of our school district. We are on the map, recognized and respected
throughout the province and we
need to continue to move forward, beyond the few obstacles currently
in our path.
There is not the slightest doubt in my mind that collectively we
have the energy, desire, enthusiasm, and ability
to do what is best for our students, parents and staff. For however
long I am in this office, I ask for your support
and guidance. I know that we are all in this together, collectively
contributing in different ways to the success of
our mission.
Many of you know me and I assure you that what you have seen and
experienced will continue to be the basis
of my leadership. My life is a call to service and I strive to
do my absolute best to support and empower all those
engaged in providing outstanding Catholic education to the children
in our care. I want to assure you that I will
always do what I think is best for the students and staff of our
schools.
I would like to share with you a quote from Henri Nouwen:
"As a community of faith, we remind each other that we need
to be
grateful, even when we suffer, even when we feel downcast, even
when things seem to be getting worse. We need to be grateful at
all times and places.
Before his death, Jesus told his disciples - "in the
world you will have troubles" he said "but be brave." If there
is any word that
should characterize the life of peacemakers, it is gratitude. True
peacemakers are grateful persons, persons who constantly
celebrate the peace of God with and among them."
- From the book "Peacework-Prayer, Resistance, Community"
by Henri Nouwen
We are so grateful for the many blessings we share in this district - the
leadership of our trustees and
administrators, the efforts of exceptional staff, the support of
our parents, the excellent achievements of our
students and the recognition of the broader community. We can be
proud!!
In the humble words of Mother Teresa we recognize that any talents
we have are not ours but have been given
to us for our use in serving our God and one another, in all our
endeavors. Let us echo her prayer..."give of your
hands to serve and your hearts to love."
With gratitude and confidence, we face the future before us.
Thank You.
Joan Carr, Superintendent, Edmonton Catholic Schools
(an excerpt taken from a presentation to principals and senior
administration on Tuesday, February 28, 2006)
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