Ursuline Update

A Message from the President – Gretchen Z. Kane

It’s a little hard to believe that the first semester of the school year is practically behind us. As a community, we’ve accomplished so many wonderful things, and our girls have truly shined in all they’ve undertaken. Ursuline Academy will close on Friday, Dec. 18 for the Christmas holidays, and we will all have the chance to prepare for a new semester and a brand new year.

Similarly, Advent marks the beginning of the Christian year. The most wonderful guest in human history arrives in our hearts and homes on Christmas. What Christ brings lasts forever and ever. He brings that love we all so desperately need and want. How does this love come into our lives? It comes through the gifts that we give to others. Christ’s love arrives in our hearts when we love others, forgive others, help others, support others, and take time for others as we listen to others.

Scripture calls on us to prepare for God, but it does not tell us to count down the days and minutes. We have time to love one another. We have time to let God’s love touch us. The grace of God, the joy of the season, and the peace that is found through waiting silently, are all part of the gifts of God, for the people of God.

May the Good News of this Advent season touch you, uplift you, and free you, so that you can soar on eagles wings within the arms of our loving, ever-present God.

On behalf of the Academy, please accept my warmest wishes for a joyous and blessed Christmas and a truly wonderful new year.

A Message from the High School Principal – John Gabriel

Last night’s Christmas concert by the Academy’s High School Choir was a special reminder of what makes the season – and the Academy – so special. Perhaps part of the pleasure comes in the setting: hearing those voices in the splendor of the Shrine of Our Lady of Prompt Succor certainly adds to the magic of the experience. Then there is the talent of our students (and several alumnae and faculty members who augmented the choir for some numbers). Under the expert direction of Shannon del Corral and Karen Jakiela, our girls displayed their talents and abilities throughout the hour-plus concert. The performance was brilliant.

To call the evening magical is selling it short, however. The right word for it is spiritual; that is, entering the realm of God. To hear those voices praising God’s glory, in that building designed to reflect His glory, in an institution dedicated to furthering His work for nearly three centuries, is nothing less than a spiritual experience. Moments like last night serve as reminders of the blessings all of us associated with Ursuline Academy share.

Last night was surely a spiritual experience. But the challenge for all of us is to see that same spiritual quality in our everyday existence. I have written before about the spiritual aspect of the “everyday-ness” of life. The spiritual seems closer to us during the Christmas season, of course – but our real challenge is to find that spiritual quality in our everyday lives. May we all find Christ in our lives this Christmas season.  But we need to challenge ourselves to find Christ in our everyday lives – and in each other – all year round. 

Addendum:  I was remiss in not mentioning the Close-Up trip last week during my Principal’s Message. Under the supervision of Social Studies Chairperson Brian Cordes and Dean of Students Karen Mortillaro, nearly thirty members of our junior class travelled to Washington D.C. where they spent a wonderful week touring our nation’s capital. I know their trip to Arlington National Cemetery to place a memorial wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was a particular highlight. And just to let our junior parents know, Ms. Mortillaro reported that the girls’ behavior was “perfect.”

A Message from the Elementary School Principal – Kim Harper

Last week’s Christmas Boutique was a huge success. It was so good to see the children, their parents and grandparents having such a good time shopping for loved ones. I want to thank Cynthia Spicuzza and all of the parents who pitched in and helped with collecting money, wrapping presents and/or helping the little ones with shopping. Thanks also to our talented vendors.

Ursuline was very well represented at the “Miracle on Fulton Street” this past Sunday. As I visited with the parents and proudly watched our girls perform, I was reminded of how blessed I am to be a part of a unique and special community such as Ursuline. The girls are dedicated and loyal to their school, and it shows. The parents always rise to whatever the occasion and remain committed to Ursuline, even in misty weather – and during a Saints game no less – now that’s real dedication! Thanks to Mr. Kemp for all of his hard work, to all of the girls who performed and to all of the parents and friends who came out in support!

The 7-1 hand bells will perform at the Monteleone Hotel and on Tuesday, Dec. 15 at 11:30 a.m. 

The Middle School Christmas Concert will be this Wednesday, Dec. 16 at 6 p.m. in the auditorium, and the Lower School Christmas Concert will be on Thursday, Dec.  17 at 6 p.m. in the auditorium. Students must wear their uniforms and arrive by 5:45 p.m.

The Early Childhood performances will be held on Thursday, Dec. 17 in the auditorium. T2 and T3 will be at 8:30 a.m.; Pre- K will be at 9:30 a.m.; Kindergarten will be at 10 a.m.

Friday, Dec. 18 is a 10 a.m. dismissal with no aftercare. Mass will be at 8:30 a.m. in the Chapel, and parents and grandparents are invited to attend. There will be no school for early childhood.

Christmas Holidays will be Dec. 21 – Jan. 1. School resumes on Monday, Jan. 4.

Elementary School (T2-7th) Tours begin will be held every Tuesday in January at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. We will be sending home two invitation cards per student. We ask that you please pass these invitations on to neighbors, friends and co-workers. Most applicants report that they learn about Ursuline through word of mouth and current UA parents and students. Your support is greatly appreciated.   

On behalf of the faculty and myself, I wish you and your family a very Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year!