St. Joseph 'The Gifts We Bring'

Courtesy photo/Carole Burbridge Layman, St. Joseph Schools

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OGDEN — On Aug. 9, the faculty and staff of Saint Joseph Catholic Elementary School went to Park City for their annual back-to-school retreat, celebrating the upcoming school year with the theme, "The Gifts We Bring."

The historic setting of Park City and its scenic backdrop (a gift in itself) unleashed everyone’s creative spirits. We discussed the unique gifts God has instilled in each of us and how we need to share those gifts with our students, parents, and one another. It was also emphasized that we also need to recognize and nurture the wonderful gifts of our students and others. It was quite emotional as these discussions reinforced the God-given gift we have as teachers, administrators, and staff. We have the ability to be a positive influence in the lives of our students and so many others.

School started on Aug. 15, and Father Ken Vialpando, pastor of Saint Joseph Parish, began our week by celebrating Mass . In his homily, he combined our theme, "The Gifts We Bring", with the central theme in the book "The Rainbow Fish," by Marcus Pfisher. The Rainbow Fish was the most beautiful fish in the sea with rainbow colored shimmery scales. When asked if he would share his beautiful scales, Rainbow Fish replied he would not. He had no friends and he was sad. In the end he decided that sharing his scales and having friends was better than being the most beautiful fish in the sea. Jesus has given us all unique and beautiful gifts for the purpose of sharing them and assisting others. Saint Joseph Catholic Elementary School is looking forward to a new school year celebrating" The Gifts We Bring."