My wife Melanie and I were able to join the Class of 1962 for their Reunion Dinner earlier this month. During the evening, we enjoyed a conversation about the TV shows that were popular in 1962. Topping the list were: Wagon Train, Hazel, Bonanza, I Love Lucy and Perry Mason. It was truly a different time. In the pop culture of 1962, there were many examples of family values, good overcoming evil, and the value of hard work.
While most would argue that we live in more interesting times that have brought us a number of cultural and technological advancements, it can be difficult to find positive messages in today’s pop culture. The popularity of reality TV shows like Jersey Shore, The Kardashians, and Teen Mom, leave us scratching our heads.
The added difficulty is that we feel busier and more stressed than ever. We’re required to multi-task at every turn - whether its a conference call for work, a committee we volunteered to chair, an event we were asked to plan, or getting to our child’s soccer game - we often find we’re doing more than one of those things simultaneously! As days turn into weeks, and weeks turn into years, we see our children growing up and wonder if we’re spending enough “quality time” with them. Here’s the good news: we are! A commitment to Catholic education is a commitment to being an integral part of your child’s life.
The Lafayette Catholic Schools recognize that parents are an essential partner in the education of our students and one of our greatest strengths. We are also confident that the lessons you’re teaching at home are being reinforced by our teachers, administrators and staff. Those Christian values are being taught in our classrooms, on the playing fields, in the gyms, and through our extra-curricular activities and social events - every hour of every day.
Our goal is to prepare your child for a purposeful Christian life. By educating them spiritually, intellectually, physically, and socially, they will be better equipped to recognize the gifts God has given them. While our pop culture may promote an attitude of “What’s in it for me?” we are here to help your child answer the ultimate question - “What does God want of me?”
So breathe easier. Your commitment is making a difference, and others are noticing. The class of 1962 enjoyed a Friday night football game, Holy Mass in the Chapel, and a tour of Central Catholic. During dinner, I had a number of the ‘62 graduates and spouses of graduates talk to me about how impressed they were with our students.
Keep up the good work, stay involved, and we will continue to do our best to serve the children of the Lafayette Catholic Schools.
