The Patriot Report – September 22, 2023

“Remember the commandments, and do not be angry with your neighbour; remember the covenant of the Most High, and overlook faults.” – Sirach 28.7

This quote from the book of Sirach was the last line from this past Sunday’s Mass. From this line, we can extract two important lessons. First, anger prevents us from following the commandments. Being angry often does not help situations and often causes our neighbors to become defensive. How many stories do we read of road rage or fights between neighbors about property lines. Anger with others will often lead to fractured relationships. Second, mercy is closely linked to following the covenant of the Lord. Jesus proclaims a new covenant of love and if we are to follow, we must practice mercy. Being angry is often related to paying too much attention to the perceived wrongdoing of others. Think of road rage. Often it is one person who is angered by the actions of the other driver thinking,  ‘how dare they cut me off!’ Then, instead of overlooking faults, they seek revenge and either tailgate or zip around the person to cut them off. 

The path to the good life is straightforward if we listen to the wisdom found in scripture. It is not easy and to be sure we will all fall short from time to time. But if we can practice more patience and mercy, the world will be a kinder place. 

Teachers and Educational Assistants will be attending a workshop lead by Dr. Gillian Judson from SFU on Imagining Education and outdoor learning spaces. Reminder that there is no after school club. 

The morning drop off lane exists to create a smooth flow of traffic for parents who are looking for a quick drop off and go. There are rules that need to be followed in order for the drop off lane to be effective.

1. Pull as far forward as possible before stopping as this allows for other cars to pull in behind. 
2. Drivers are not to get out of the car – if your child cannot independently get out of the car on their own then the drop off lane is not for you.
3. Absolutely no parking is permitted.
4. Be mindful of other cars coming into the parking lot – use your signal
5. Exit to either Renfrew driveway or East 15 driveway
6. Be respectful of our Parent Supervisors who are there to enforce the rules and act on behalf of the school. 

Thank you for your cooperation.

This week Grade Sevens had the privilege of attending outdoor education classes at Camp Latona on Gambier Island. The students were able to experience the beauty of nature while bonding with their classmates. A big thanks to Mr. Mow and Mr. V who plan the yearly trip and to Mrs. Chao and Miss Glinsbockel who were chaperones. Both students and teachers had a great time and look forward to returning to school next week refreshed and ready to take on their last year at St. Jude! 

Care Days are on the last Friday of the month and are a day in which students are reminded to care for others. These are dress down days for students following a monthly theme and have a 12pm dismissal. Students may wear a shirt following the Care Day theme or they may come to school in Patriot wear as is permitted every Friday or they may wear their uniform. 

In years past we have done an EFT for $18.00 for all 9 of our Care Days. The money collected has been used to support Covenant House and the Archdiocese Charities. We once again ask that you email bookkeeper@stjude.ca if you would not like to participate. The EFT is scheduled for October 15, 2023.

This Care Day falls near Orange Shirt Day. In honor of the origins of Orange Shirt Day, students will be able to wear a colour of their choice to school on Friday, September 29. 

Mandarin class will not meet on the following days:
Sep 25^th: Professional Development Day, No School    
Oct 2^nd: TRC Day, No School 
Oct 9^th:  Thanksgiving Holiday, No School                  

Pui Ying Mandarin class will return on Oct 16 (Mon 3.15-4.45pm).

If you are interested in having your child attend classes please email Nellie Chan at nellie@puiying.org.  

Parents, both Catholic and Non-Catholic, are invited to attend the St. Jude Parish Alpha course. Alpha is a video series that introduces viewers to the Christian faith. Every Thursday evening, in our school cafeteria, you can join others in conversation while enjoying food as well. For more information please contact the Parish of St. Jude. 

Phone Number – 604-434-6700

Email – stjudes@rcav.org

If your child has an allergy or a medical condition, it is very important that you update the school office. Forms did go home with students that have anaphylaxis and parents must complete the information. If you did not receive any communication from the school and your child has a severe allergy please contact the office. 

Reminder to submit absentee notes for when your child is sick or away from school. This can be done online through our school website: https://stjude.ca/absentee-note/

We will have Patriots Spirit Wear on Fridays throughout the year. A special order from Cambridge will come out soon. A reminder that all PE uniform items are considered Patriots Spirit Wear. Please stay tuned for ordering information.

To order our school uniform you need to visit the Cambridge Uniform store (in person or online). Click here for more information, including our school code, which will be needed. 

This week Grade Sevens had the privilege of attending their outdoor education classes at Camp Latona on Gambier Island. The students were able to experience the beauty of nature while bonding with their classmates. A big thanks to Mr. Mow and Mr. V who plan the yearly trip and to Mrs. Chao and Miss Glinsbockel who were chaperones. Both students and teachers had a great time and look forward to returning to school next week refreshed and ready to take on their last year at St. Jude! 

St. Jude Parish Mass Times

Monday – Saturday: 9 am morning Masses
Novena Mass on Wednesdays: 7:30 pm.
Saturday anticipated Mass: 5 pm
Sunday Mass: 9 am, 11 am, 5 pm

Hawaiian/Polynesian Dance Class – MON, Sept 18 – Dec 11 from 4:30 – 5:15pm (6-12yrs) and Adults (16+) from 5:30 – 6:30pm. Drop-Ins are welcome too! More information can be found by clicking here.