Over the past few years, we have been working hard on building our school on the foundation of its past. Since Saint Bernard's has such a rich history, we felt that the best way to ensure our success for years to come was to build on this tradition. One of the pieces of our tradition that we have embraced is to pray daily, especially the Benedictine verse, “That in all things God may be glorified.” In doing so, it reminds us that everything we do—from teaching, learning, studying, volunteering, leading, playing, sharing and praying—all our efforts are to glorify God. This has created a strong sense of faith among our community. Both the school and the parish are very focused on the role God plays in our lives and I believe this has impacted the culture of our school greatly. The students, staff and families that have joined us over the years are people who believe that God works in their lives each day. They are people who have a strong sense of faith and family. All who have joined us have helped create the sense of family that we have worked hard to build.
It is this sense of faith and family that extends to those who visit us and has created the sense of welcome that people feel when they come to Saint Bernard's. Whether they are first time visitors or alumni and friends who are coming back to say hello, each person comments on the sense of warmth and welcome they feel. I know that within our school, we have been fortunate to welcome many new students to our school over the past few years. These new families have come to us for many reasons, and in each case we have worked hard to make the transition a smooth one. When checking with each student and their family to see how they are adjusting, they all have felt welcomed and have become part of the school in a very short time. I know that our students and staff do a wonderful job making each person feel at home right away. And I also believe that the traditions and history of our school help make this place a “home away from home.”
As we look forward to our 115 years of education at Saint Bernard's School, we realize we have a great task in carrying on this tradition for the next 100 years. With our focus on our past as we build our future, I believe we are on the right path. In the last few years, we have met with many alumni who had lost contact with our school. Some we have invited to visit and others have contacted us. In each case, they remind us of the impact that Saint Bernard's had on their lives and help us see how important our work is for the students we serve today. If you have not had the chance to see us lately, I invite you back to visit this place that was your “home away from home” for so many years. If you are new to us, come spend some time here and be welcomed into the Saint Bernard's family.
“That in all things God may be glorified."
