May 2025 Message
I am writing this May Message just days after the passing of Pope Francis. It is fitting that God called Pope Francis to heaven the day after Easter Sunday, when we had just celebrated Jesus defeating death so that His followers might have eternal life. Our schools continue to pray for the repose of the soul of The Holy Father, whose spiritual guidance will be greatly missed by the ECSD community. In memory of Pope Francis, I will continue writing these monthly messages using his lens of goodness, truth, and beauty.
GOODNESS. As part of ECSD’s ongoing Jubilee Year festivities, our schools are celebrating a special Liturgy of the Word on Monday, May 26. It will be a joyous occasion for our ECSD community to share the Gospel as a community of faith. Then, May 30 to June 1 is the Jubilee of Families, Children, Grandparents, and the Elderly, during which time we are encouraged to renew our hope as a family and strengthen our commitment to bear witness to the source of hope within ourselves.
Our Division Plan for Continuous Growth includes a distinct focus on spiritual, mental, and physical wellness. Indeed, we provide many opportunities for students and staff to engage in activities that support goodness and health. Given that Mental Health Week is May 5 to 9, there will be a special emphasis during this time on activities related to mental health.
TRUTH. For the last several weeks we have been integrating Provincial Budget 2025 into our operational plans, and will present the Division Annual Budget at the Public Meeting of the Board on May 30. If interested, please feel free to attend the meeting or watch the livestream.
We are also preparing to celebrate many of our accomplishments from this year. Spring is the time for graduation ceremonies, when we celebrate those graduating from Edmonton Catholic Schools and taking the next steps in their lives. Of course, all ECSD celebrations are rooted in community and faith.
BEAUTY. Another sign of spring is the annual Ben Calf Robe Traditional Pow Wow, being held Saturday, May 10 from 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM at the Commonwealth Community Recreation Centre Field House. Many of our students and their families participate in this beautiful celebration of Indigenous culture. All are welcome to attend.
Students have been learning how Easter Sunday marks a new beginning. Over the fifty days of Easter – from Easter Sunday to Pentecost Sunday – our schools will emphasize the Risen Christ as He reveals His glory. The sorrow of His death is transformed into the joy of everlasting life. May we carry this joy in our hearts throughout the Easter season… and beyond!
Sincerely,
Lynnette Anderson
Chief Superintendent
- To see our upcoming Division events, visit ecsd.net/calendar.
- Read Father Julian's message Mary, Mother of God: A Guiding Light for Catholic Education