Dear CISND Community:
“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and give birth to a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,”
a name that means “God is with us. (Matt 1.23)
At the heart of the Christmas season is a truth that renews us: God is with us.
Throughout Advent, we prepared in hope; not only for this celebration, but for Him. Now, before the manger, we find not just the blessings of God, but God Himself. Emmanuel. This is the gift we have been waiting for.
The Catholic Independent Schools of the Nelson Diocese is rooted in hope; this truth shapes who we are. The birth of Christ was the moment that changed everything. In our schools and communities, it is our invitation to live in His presence, to walk in His light, and to witness to His love. In our CISND schools, we see His light shining in so many signs of hope: in students growing in faith and joy, in teachers who accompany their students with love and purpose, and in families who continue to show up with trust and perseverance. We see it during Advent liturgies and Christmas concerts, where students proclaim the coming of Christ with sincerity and joy. We see it in classrooms where every child is known and valued, and in communities where dignity is upheld, hearts are lifted, and all are welcomed with a deep sense of belonging.
Christmas invites us to give thanks for our faith, our families, and the connections we share between home, school, and parish.
On behalf of the CISND Board and Administration, may the peace of Christ fill your hearts this Christmas, renew our hope, and guide us in the year to come.
In Christ,
Pamela Guilbault, Superintendent of Schools
Catholic Independent Schools of the Diocese of Nelson
Download the letter here