LABOR DAY

"And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made: and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had done" (Gen 2:2). This Sacred Scripture is the basis for our call to keep holy the Sabbath. But it also dignifies work, as this is another way we imitate our Creator, through our work. Although Labor Day is a secular holiday, instituted through the influence of labor unions, we Christians are called to sanctify all things, including culture. And so, we, too, honor the work that is done by men and women throughout history.

It is through work and toil that we attain dominion over creation, as we are instructed in Genesis. These things are known throughout the world, as men and women from all time and in all cultures are called to work and toil. Although the work is different- agricultural workers, day laborers, factory workers, nurses, doctors, stay at home moms and dads, construction workers, students and scientists to name a few; we all know some type of work. And that is a good thing.
In fact, St. Thomas Aquinas tells us that work itself is good for mankind. It is good in that it allows us to purchase things needed for life, but beyond that, and more importantly work corresponds to our human dignity, and even increases it. Through work, we transform nature, adapt it to our needs, and achieve fulfillment as a human being; in a sense becoming "more a human being" (Laborem Exercens). Without this conception of work, it can be simply tedious and a struggle; and work can be used to punish or oppress other humans; through forced labor, concentration camps and exploitation of workers solely for the profit of others, etc. So as Christians we come to celebrate Labor Day, not as a day off from our toil, but as a day to celebrate work itself, and to reflect how our work, no matter what it may be, is a way to grow in holiness and imitation of our Creator, the first worker.

God bless, and a blessed Labor Day to all.

Fr James Weighner

Mass Time Change:

On Sunday, September 19th the Masses at St. John’s & St. Gabriel’s will switch times. Starting on the 19th the Mass at St. Gabriel’s will be at 7:30 am and the Mass at St. John’s will be at 11:00 am.

Sound System Update:

Our Parishes have met the sound system goal! As of 8/19/10 we have raised over 40,000! Thank you again to all who have given to this fundraiser.

Lifeline Sound Company of Platteville will be installing the new sound systems for both St. Gabriel's and St. John's Churches in September. It will take about a week for each church to install.


PCS Tech Update:

Also, our school is going through exciting changes as well. We are now set up with the new administration software called Skyward. We also have just finished upgrading and installing newer computers and software for all our computer labs and teachers and their classrooms. Everything will be integrated and protected to provide a reliable and secure computing environment for both our students and teachers.

FROM THE PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE

Dear Parent,

Thank you so much for your interest in Prairie Catholic Schools.  St. Gabriel’s School , our elementary school, encompasses grades Pre-K though 5th, and St. John’s,  our middle school, continues on with grades 6th through 8th.  Additionally, on-site daycare is available on the St. Gabriel’s campus. 

We know that choosing the right education for your child is one of the most important decisions you face. The entire staff of Prairie Catholic Schools takes your consideration very seriously, and your consideration is greatly appreciated. We are confident that our school communities have much to offer your child.

A Catholic School is a unique environment with very special opportunities for its students to grow spiritually and for its educators to share their faith, and values while educating our students. Jesus Christ and his gospel message are central to all that we do.  We are committed to helping children grow in faith, to love learning, and to treat one another with respect and care…to treat others as they themselves would want to be treated.  To follow Christ’s command to love one another is central..

We provide a strong academic curriculum and a safe learning environment for students, so that every child can reach their greatest potential.  We support each child in recognizing his or her own giftedness and to learn to appreciate the gifts of others, fostering an atmosphere of  mutual respect for one another.

We encourage, and are committed to,  a cooperative partnership between family and school.  We seek to work with you as parents, in helping your child become the best they can be.  We believe in the mutual relationship of school supporting family and family supporting school.
At Prairie Catholic Schools, we are positive people – learning, loving and living our faith.  We aspire to create a place where your child is safe, happy and knows they are special.
We would love to discuss further the opportunities we can offer your child.  Please call us for a personal tour at:
(608) 326-8624  (St. Gabriel’s)

(608) 326-4400  (St. John’s)

Blessings,

Prairie Catholic School
Principal