<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0daeb444-33bb-4d39-a950-68eba56bead6?fingerprint=ppb20260428142534" alt="GLOW Art Festival" width="389" height="277" style="width:389px;height:277px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">You are invited to attend our annual Arts Festival entitled "GLOW (God Loves our Wonder)" on Thursday, May 14th from 6:00 to 7:30 pm. A live performance will take place at 7:00 pm. Come and check out our "glowing" art galleries!</span></p>

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A Beacon of Hope: St. Kateri Elementary School Set to Open January 2027</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/126baaeb-d40d-41ea-8a5e-2c730572aad4?fingerprint=ppb20260513170948" alt="stkateri2" width="463" height="430" style="width:463px;height:430px;display:inline-block;float:left"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The skyline of our west Lethbridge community is changing, and with it, the future of our students. Bathed in the glow of a breakthrough sun, the construction site for the new St. Kateri Elementary School serves as a powerful reminder of what we can achieve through faith, foresight, and fellowship.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As the clouds parted this week to reveal the progress of the building’s structure, it was hard not to feel the symbolic weight of the moment. We aren't just building walls; we are building a sanctuary for learning.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><hr><h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Leadership with Vision</strong></b></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The journey to January 2027 is paved with intentionality. Superintendent Chantel Axani recently reflected on the meticulous planning required to bring a project of this magnitude to life.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"True visionary leadership requires looking beyond immediate needs to anticipate the long-term growth of our school communities," Axani shared. "Through our ongoing Father Leonard Van Tighem Visioning and St. Kateri meetings, we are actively shaping a future that honors our legacy while embracing new opportunities."</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This progress is the result of tireless collaboration. From weekly SALT (Senior Administrative Leadership Team) sessions to deep-dive strategic planning meetings, the Holy Spirit Catholic School Division is navigating the complexities of our growing landscape to ensure this new school is both bold and sustainable.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Principal of the new school, Meghan Calder also shared the momentous anticipation.&nbsp;</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“ I am so honoured to be working on the progress of the opening of St. Kateri School. We look forward to sharing our teaching staff and plans for our start at Father Leonard Van Tighem, as well as progress about the construction of our building, with families at our Open House on June 10. This is a truly exciting time!”</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">More Than Just a Building</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">St. Kateri Elementary is designed to be a modern hub</span><img src="/images/dd9025a8-737c-4d1c-a891-761992f1e733?fingerprint=ppb20260513170115" alt="Sharpen Image (1)" width="369" height="462" style="width:369px;height:462px;display:inline-block;float:right"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> of education that respects the heritage of the Father Leonard Van Tighem (FLVT) community while forging its own unique identity. The "forward-looking approach" mentioned by Superintendent Axani ensures that when the doors swing open in 2027, the facility will be equipped to handle the technological and pedagogical needs of the next generation.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We know our families are just as excited as we are to see the "insides" of this project. Whether it’s the sun shining down on the fresh masonry or the bustling energy of the construction crews, the momentum is undeniable.</span></p><hr><h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">🗓️ Save the Date: Community Open House</strong></b></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We want you to be a part of this story! We invite all families, neighbors, and stakeholders to join us for an upcoming </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Open House</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to learn more about our new west Lethbridge school’s design, boundaries, and the spirit of St. Kateri Elementary School.</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">When:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Wednesday, June 10, 2026 from 5:45pm-7:00pm.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Where:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Father Leonard Van Tighem School.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Meet some of the new staff members and a Q&amp;A session with division leadership.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Together, we are building a future where every student can shine.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6e808709-3d08-4979-bdd2-0d5a09c00114?fingerprint=ppb20260423161543" alt="Award 2" width="619" height="356" style="width:619px;height:356px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Holy Spirit Catholic School Division is proud to announce that Mrs. Dominique Plouffe-Chandler has been named the division’s recipient of the 2025/2026 Excellence in Catholic Education Award. A devoted educator in Catholic education, Dominique has faithfully served the division for 36 years as a teacher at St. Michael’s School in Pincher Creek. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to nurturing the spiritual, academic, and personal growth of her students, embodying compassion, excellence, and faith-filled leadership.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Associate Superintendent of Faith and Learning, Aaron Skretting, praised Dominique’s dedication stating,</span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> "Each year, Catholic educators from across our province receive this prestigious award in recognition of the significant contributions that they make to Catholic education. Dominique's profound commitment to vocation, faith, and excellence make her a worthy recipient for Holy Spirit this year. Her in-depth knowledge of subject matter and her ability to meaningfully integrate the teachings of the Catholic Church into daily instruction exemplify excellence in Catholic pedagogy. Her witness to her faith, inside and outside of the classroom, shines brightly to all of us.”&nbsp;</em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dominique’s contributions to Catholic education are far-reaching. For her, teaching is more than a profession; it is a vocation rooted in Catholic values. She creates a classroom environment where students feel welcomed, supported, and encouraged to discover their God-given gifts. Known for her humility, perseverance, and generosity, Dominique inspires confidence and curiosity in her students, challenging them to take pride in their learning and growth.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Her impact extends beyond the classroom through her commitment to building strong connections between the school, parish, and community. She frequently involves the parish priest in school activities and liturgies, leads students in outreach initiatives and acts of service, and models how faith is lived through compassion and social responsibility. Through these efforts, she fosters a culture where faith and learning flourish together.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Guided by Colossians 3:23–24, Dominique approaches her work </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“with all her heart, as working for the Lord.”</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> This spirit is also reflected in Matthew 19:14 and Proverbs 22:6, which inspire her belief in the sacred responsibility of nurturing young souls. When asked to describe her, Dominique’s students used words such as beautiful, awesome, musical, amazing, and inspiring — a testament to the profound influence she has had over her many years of service.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dominique will be honoured during the ACSTA’s event, SPICE on Saturday, May 2, 2026.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please join the Holy Spirit Catholic School Division in congratulating Mrs. Dominique Plouffe-Chandler for being selected as our recipient of the Excellence in Catholic Education Award. Her Christ-centered leadership and unwavering commitment to service truly exemplify the spirit of excellence in Catholic education. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" style="text-align: center;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Calling for Excellence: Nominations Open for the </strong></b><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"Share the Mission" Award</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/b95eb8c4-4310-4c00-afc7-ac4fe0917dda?fingerprint=ppb20260417190002" alt="2026 Facebook “Share the Mission” Award (Facebook Post)" width="355" height="412" style="width:355px;height:412px;display:inline-block;float:left"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The search is on for the unsung heroes of our school community. The Holy Spirit Catholic School Division has officially opened nominations for the </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2025/2026 "Share the Mission Award,"</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> a prestigious honor designed to celebrate those who go above and beyond in service of faith and education.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This annual tradition recognizes the profound impact that dedicated individuals—be they parents, students, staff, or community members—have in weaving a stronger social fabric, enriching the lives of our students and staff as well as the broader community.</span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What Defines a "Share the Mission" Recipient?</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The division is looking for nominees who embody the core values of the Catholic faith and demonstrate a tireless commitment to the growth of students. To be considered, a nominee should meet the following criteria:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">- Offered outstanding or long-term service for the benefit of our students;</strong></b><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">- Accepted demanding challenges and set new standards for the rest of us to follow;</strong></b><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">- Contributed, through action and deed, to the Catholic atmosphere of our schools; </strong></b><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">- Demonstrated involvement and leadership in community/parish organizations;</strong></b><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">- Reflected the Mission Statement of the Holy Spirit Catholic School Division in all actions:</strong></b></p><blockquote class="editor-quote" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are a Catholic faith community, dedicated to providing each student entrusted in our care with an education rooted in the Good News of Jesus Christ Guided by the Holy Spirit, in partnership with home, parish and society, our schools foster the growth of responsible citizens who will live, celebrate, and proclaim their faith. Our Catholic faith is the foundations of all that we do.</em></i></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;In a world where kindness, leadership, and faith-driven service make all the difference, Holy Spirit Catholic School Division is pleased to recognize those individuals/groups who live, celebrate, and proclaim their faith through tangible deeds.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you know an individual or a group whose contributions have shaped the Holy Spirit community for the better, now is the time to ensure they receive the recognition they deserve. All submissions must be received by </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday, June 5, 2026</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Nominations can be submitted via the </span><a href="https://forms.gle/mw4zPgQEgSUgeR7D6" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">online form</strong></b></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> on the school division's website.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The recipient is honored during a formal presentation at the division’s Opening Mass in the new school year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Don't let excellence go unnoticed—submit your nomination today and help celebrate the people who make our schools a community of grace and learning!</strong></b></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For questions regarding the award criteria or the submission process, please reach out to the St. Basil Catholic Education Centre:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="padding-inline-start: 80px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Contact: Rhonda Kawa, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:kawarh@holyspirit.ab.ca" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">kawarh@holyspirit.ab.ca</span></a><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Phone: 403-327-9555</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Address: 620 12B Street North, Lethbridge, AB T1H 2L7</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0dc8e9e1-929a-460e-bb1d-8e302d1c5346?fingerprint=ppb20260413181735" alt="Brent Christensen Story" width="484" height="279" style="width:484px;height:279px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Holy Spirit Catholic School Division is pleased to announce that Mr. Brent Christensen will be stepping into the role of Principal for St. Patrick Fine Arts Elementary School beginning the 2026/27 school year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mr. Christensen earned his Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience (2003), Bachelor of Education in General Science Education (2004), and Master of Education in Educational Leadership (2016), all from the University of Lethbridge.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A dedicated educator with over two decades of service to the division, Mr. Christensen’s journey began at St. Mary School in Taber. His passion for the sciences led him to Catholic Central High School, where he spent nine years shaping the minds of chemistry students and helping pioneer the CCH Campus for Science and Inquiry. Brent is no stranger to the "Holy Spirit family"—he is an alumnus of the division himself and has spent the last eleven years at St. Joseph School in Coaldale, serving first as Associate Principal and, for the last four years, as Principal.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Guided by Faith and Compassion, Mr. Christensen grounds his leadership in the wisdom of Colossians 3:12–14, a passage that calls for heartfelt compassion, humility, and love.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones... heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another... And over all these put on love, that is, the bond of perfection.”</em></i></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"This passage guides how I approach each day," Brent explains. "It emphasizes the importance of leaning into faith and placing love above all when we face challenges together."</em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Superintendent Chantel Axani shares </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;"As a deeply relational leader with over two decades of dedicated service to our 'Holy Spirit family,' Brent brings a profound sense of faith and heart to St. Patrick’s Fine Arts. Grounded in his commitment to leading with compassion and humility, he will be a transformative presence who puts love at the center of every student and staff connection.”</em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“I am excited for this new opportunity to continue to grow and challenge myself as an educator in Holy Spirit School Division. I look forward to working with the amazing staff of St. Patrick Fine Arts and getting to know the community we serve,”</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> said Mr. Christensen.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A graduate of Holy Spirit Catholic School Division himself, having attended St. Mary School in Taber, Mr. Christensen shares that he feels an incredible sense of pride and gratitude to continue serving within the division. He and his wife, Danielle, who teaches at Catholic Central High School, have three children who attend Holy Spirit schools.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Congratulations, Mr. Christensen. The division extends its best wishes and warmly welcomes him as he continues his dedicated service as a faith-filled leader, weaving together the beauty of the arts with a commitment to academic excellence that embodies St. Patrick Fine Arts Elementary School.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we enter into the joy of the Easter season, Holy Spirit Catholic School Division is pleased to share a special message from Superintendent Chantel Axani.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Easter is a time of renewal, hope, and celebration of the Resurrection of Christ. It reminds us that even in moments of challenge, new life and light are always possible through faith.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We extend our sincere thanks to all members of our Holy Spirit community for the care and support you show one another each day. May this Easter season bring you and your loved ones peace, joy, and the blessings of Christ’s love.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wishing you a blessed and joyful Easter.</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><iframe data-lexical-video-id="Hwr3SA5_coE" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/Hwr3SA5_coE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/566913df-0609-4fa6-b25d-2ed745d1fdc5?fingerprint=ppb20260327163717" alt="Untitled 1" width="336" height="193" style="width:336px;height:193px;display:inline-block;float:left"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Holy Spirit Catholic School Division is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Matthew New as Principal of Our Lady of the Assumption Elementary School. Mr. New will assume his role in August 2026. Bringing a strong background in teaching and administration, he is excited to return to the Our Lady of the Assumption community and continue supporting student success through faith-filled leadership and collaboration.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mr. New holds a Master of Education in School Administration, a Bachelor of Education with a major in CTS Business, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a minor in Management. His experience in Kindergarten to Grade 12 education has allowed him to develop a collaborative and community-focused leadership style grounded in service across multiple school settings within the Holy Spirit Catholic School Division. He has led and supported initiatives aimed at strengthening student attendance, engagement, and well-being, while working alongside staff to implement school-wide frameworks such as Response to Intervention and the Collaborative Response Model.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Superintendent Chantel&nbsp;Axani&nbsp;shared,&nbsp;</span><br><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“I am pleased to announce that Matthew New will serve as the Principal of Our Lady of the Assumption Elementary School beginning August 2026. Matthew is a visionary leader with experience that spans Kindergarten through Grade 12. He has expressed enthusiasm about returning to the elementary level and to OLA, where he will work alongside Associate Principal Caryn&nbsp;Swark&nbsp;to continue serving the students and staff. I am confident that Matthew and Caryn’s skills and talents will complement each other well.”&nbsp;</em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Rooted in faith, Mr. New’s leadership is inspired by the scripture,&nbsp;</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“Be strong and steadfast; do not fear or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”&nbsp;— Joshua 1:9&nbsp;</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This passage reminds him that&nbsp;faith guides his work, courage strengthens his leadership, and joy shapes his journey in Catholic education.&nbsp;He is committed to building strong, respectful relationships with staff, students, and families, and values creating a positive and responsive learning environment through instructional leadership, meaningful collaboration, and active involvement in extracurricular and student leadership opportunities. His approach focuses on fostering student growth while strengthening a supportive and inclusive school culture.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mr. New shares his enthusiasm for the role:&nbsp;</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span><br><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“I’m&nbsp;so excited to be coming back to the Our Lady of the Assumption School community. Becoming a principal has been a dream of mine for a long time, and&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;such an honor to start this journey at a school with&nbsp;a dedicated&nbsp;staff, wonderful families, and a strong tradition of putting students’ needs first. I&nbsp;can’t&nbsp;wait for the 2026–2027 school year and to reconnect with everyone at OLA.”&nbsp;</em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Holy Spirit Catholic School Division looks forward to Mr. New’s leadership as Our Lady of the Assumption Elementary School continues to nurture faith, learning, and community for students and families.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Feast Day: March 17 | Patron Saint of Ireland, missionaries, and engineers</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Every year on March 17, people around the world celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with parades, green clothing, and shamrocks. Behind the celebration, however, is the powerful story of a man whose life was shaped by hardship, faith, and courage.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Saint Patrick was not born in Ireland. He was born in Britain around the year 385 into a Christian family. As a child, he did not take his faith very seriously and lived a normal life. But when he was about sixteen years old, everything changed. Raiders attacked his home, captured him, and took him to Ireland, where he was sold into slavery.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Patrick spent several years working as a shepherd in the countryside. Far from home and alone, he faced many difficulties. During this painful time, he began to turn to God through prayer. Patrick later wrote that he prayed constantly, even hundreds of times a day. In the quiet fields where he cared for sheep, his faith grew stronger than ever.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">After about six years, Patrick believed God spoke to him in a dream, telling him it was time to escape. Trusting this message, he fled his master and traveled many miles to the coast, where he found a ship that took him back to Britain. There, he was finally reunited with his family.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Most people would never want to return to the place where they had suffered so much. But Patrick believed God was calling him back to Ireland. After studying Christianity and preparing to become a missionary, he returned to the country where he had once been a slave.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Patrick traveled across Ireland teaching people about Jesus and sharing the message of Christianity. One famous tradition says he used the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity—how God is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, three persons in one.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Over time, Patrick helped spread Christianity throughout Ireland. Perhaps the most remarkable part of his story is his ability to forgive. Instead of holding anger toward those who had enslaved him, Patrick returned with compassion to share faith and hope.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">His prayer shows the deep trust he placed in God:</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me.”</em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Today, St. Patrick’s story continues to inspire people everywhere. His life reminds us that faith, courage, and forgiveness can turn even the hardest experiences into something meaningful and powerful. How can we show forgiveness and share God’s love with people in our lives?</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Prayer</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Lord,</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Help us follow the example of St. Patrick by trusting in You and sharing Your love with others.</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Give us courage to live our faith and kindness to forgive those who hurt us.</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Amen.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">St. Patrick pray for us!</span></p>