2020 Advent Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education

“For unto us a child is born.” (Isaiah 9:6)

During the season of Advent in the Year of Love, we pray and prepare with anticipation for the celebration of our Saviour’s birth. Our Holy Father, Pope Francis encourages all of us to adopt the prayer – “Come Lord Jesus, Come” as we open our hearts and invite the saving grace of our Lord to enter into our lives. 

Given the unique circumstances of 2020, we recognize now more than ever, what a gift it is to participate in Advent activities in our schools and parishes. In the true spirit of Christmas, our schools and classrooms continue to offer opportunities to celebrate our Catholic faith through charitable campaigns, virtual reflections and classroom prayers, as we focus on this very special time of our liturgical year. Families can also mark the beginning of each new week of Advent in their own homes. Advent wreaths are a fun project that can be made by both children and adults. In whichever manner you choose to celebrate, may the lighting of candles on your Advent wreaths ignite the spirituality of the season.

To our friends and partners who celebrate nondenominational traditions, may you find peace in your hearts through the love and joy of the season.

On behalf of the Durham Catholic District School Board, we would like to thank all students, staff, families, clergy, parish communities and community partners for your cooperation and collaboration this past year. In this season of reflection and gratitude, we extend heartfelt thanks to our health care providers, medical experts and elected officials, for your continued dedication and efforts to guide us through this pandemic.  We are especially appreciative of our local public health nurses and practitioners who have played a large role in allowing our school system to thrive under varying circumstances over the past nine months. We look forward to our continued journey together in the New Year.

Wishing you a joyous Christmas season filled with love, peace and hope.

Yours in Catholic Faith,

Morgan Ste. Marie                  Tracy Barill

Chair of the Board                  Director of Education