As we enter the final week of Lent, the children and staff at The Way of the Shepherd have been extra busy pondering the events of Jesus’ life commemorated on Holy Thursday and Good Friday as we move closer, with the whole Church, to Easter Sunday. Because of a very special celebration, The Penitential Rite (Scrutiny), which we were privileged to participate in, both our annual Seder Meal and Stations of the Cross occurred on the same day, making for a very full experience! Two boys in our upper elementary classroom (Level III Atrium) will be brought into full communion with the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil as they receive Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. This amazing event has guided our Level III Atrium “theme” this year as we have all prepared, with them, for the various Rites they have celebrated. This week their pastor gave us a great gift in asking if he could celebrate The Penitential Rite with all of The Way of the Shepherd children and staff on our final day of school before the Triduum. We were able to join these boys, their parents, sponsors, and catechists in praying for God’s mercy and goodness and to watch as they were anointed with the Oil of Catechumens. What a great gift to be a part of their journey and their joy!
