Today is the third Sunday of Advent or ‘Gaudete’ Sunday. Gaudete comes from the Latin word ‘rejoice’ and reminds us of the joy that the world experienced at the birth of Jesus. We light the pink candle as rose is a liturgical colour for joy.

Lord God,
May we, your people,
who look forward to the birthday of Christ
experience the joy of salvation and
celebrate that feast with love and thanksgiving.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Morning Drop Off and After School Pick Up

A BIG thank you to all parents and guardians who park their vehicle and walk their child(ren) to the Kindergarten pen or school yard! Your efforts to keep the loop clear from parked vehicles in the morning and after school are appreciated so very much! Thank you for your support and continuing these efforts in the new year!
Dressing for the Weather
Students are having great fun in the snow!

Parents and guardians, don’t forget to send students to school with hats, waterproof gloves and boots, and snow pants, as these will keep children warm and dry during recesses. In addition, please send extra clothes to school for child(ren) in the event that clothing becomes wet.
Next Week’s Activities and Events
Here is a look ahead to next week…
December 15th-19th: Christmas Spirit Week!

Monday, December 15th:
– Christmas Music Concert in gymnasium at 1:45pm, presented by St. Katharine Drexel CHS
Tuesday, December 16th:
– Praying the Rosary with the Rosary Apostolate; all classes
Wednesday, December 17th:
– Kindergarten & Primary (Grades 1-3) Christmas Concert dress rehearsal (student audience only), 10:00am
– Kindergarten & Primary (Grades 1-3) Christmas Concert, 12:30pm; families are welcome to attend
– Sweet Treats (candy and/or chocolate) for orders placed to be delivered
Thursday, December 18th:
– Family Christmas Event in gymnasium, 6:00-8:00pm, hosted by St. Mark’s Catholic School Council

Upcoming Activities and Events
December 22nd to January 2nd: Christmas Break
January 5th: Back to School!
Closing Prayer

O God,
As we faithfully await the birth of your son, Jesus,
Let us be glad and rejoice.
In our families and our schools and in our lives,
Help us to share the joy of Christ’s love with others.
Amen.
St. Mark, pray for us.
Wishing you a week filled with joy as we await the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Sincerely,
C. Quadrini, Principal
