Dear Friend,

The saints tell us that Mary conceived Jesus in her heart before she conceived Him in her body. Mary, the Mother of Jesus, was the first human being to say "yes" to her Divine Son. She was the first person to love her Divine Son. She was in a real way, the first disciple of Jesus. She taught others to be His disciples by telling them: "Do whatever He tells you."

Mary, the Mother, was also Mary the disciple, and in her own life showed us how to be disciples. Mary's words have echoed through the ages and are as all-important as they were 20 centuries ago.

As we celebrate St. Mary's centennial, we realize that the Spirit, the spirit of Mary, the spirit of discipleship is what St. Mary's has been about. To bring our young people to Jesus, to help them to know and love Him, to prepare them to serve Him for a lifetime, is what St. Mary's has done so very well for 100 years.

I am in awe of Monsignor Michael Cassidy, the Pastors, the Priests and Sisters, and the people of St. Patrick's, who have so selflessly dedicated themselves to this mission over this last century. The many, many graduates of St. Mary's who have exemplified true discipleship, who have given themselves so completely to God and to the Kingdom, are the greatest evidence of the Spirit's presence in St. Mary's and the worth of this "school of discipleship."

As we look back over the faith and commitment of the last 100 years, we are filled with undiluted gratitude. As we look to the future, we are filled with hope and determination. May God shower St. Mary's with His graces and favors, and may St. Mary's and her graduates always be the most faithful of disciples.

Yours in Christ,

Rev. Mark Filips

Pastor, St. Patrick's