Our first reading for this week's All School Mass on Thursday is from the book of Ephesians. Paul is urges us to, "live in a manner worthy of the call you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love, striving to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." (Look at all those fruits of the Spirit!) Paul's words hit home for me because I am NOT worthy, but I am CALLED to live in a way which brings glory and honor to our Heavenly Father. Our call to love one another with kindness and joy will not be an easy one to answer. This is why we are told to reach out to the Holy Spirit which binds us all together.

The beauty of what Paul was saying to the people of Ephesus in chapter four is the fact that he simply encouraged them to get started living for God in very simple ways. They were not instructed to make sure their life was "perfect" first. The same is true when Jesus calls Matthew, the tax collector, in the Gospel reading for this same liturgy from his place of work.

He said to him, "Follow me."

And he got up and followed him.

Once we answer His call and start by first following Christ, we will naturally be transformed. Jesus tells us in a few verses later when asked why he is dining with tax collectors and other seen as "unclean" at that time:

"Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do.

Go and learn the meaning of the words, I desire mercy, not sacrifice.

I did not come to call the righteous but sinners."

May we all answer His call to live with gentleness, patience, love and peace as ONE together!

Mrs. Stoffel

Our annual parish, school, and community festival weekend filled with fun, games, music, food, and more! Find out more details at: https://stceciliacathedral.org/cathedralfest/

CATHEDRALFEST ITEMS

• Raffle Tickets (K - 8th Grade Only) - Turn In Tuesday started for students to bring in ticket stubs and money for raffle tickets sold! Prizes will be awarded on Thursdays. Thank you to Mrs. Smith for continuing this tradition which is one of our biggest fundraisers. Homeroom to sell most percentage of tickets wins a pizza party with Mrs. Stoffel!
• Volunteer at the Event - CLICK HERE to sign up to serve at any of the events like a chili cook off, craft beer brew off, spaghetti dinner, game booths, and more!

To teach and live the Catholic faith within a nurturing, family-like community, teach reverence for life and respect for all, and to foster each student’s academic potential.

Email: jstoffel@stcecilia.net
Website: www.stcecilia.net
Location: 3869 Webster Street, Omaha, NE, USA
Phone: 402-556-6655
Facebook: facebook.com/StCeciliaSchoolOmaha
Twitter: @StCeciliaOMA