Blog Archives - Articulating Hope

A Little Inspiration For Your Day

8/28/2019

Today is the birthday of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. He was born on August 28, 1749 and died on March 22, 1832. He had many fantastic quotes but some are especially significant to me.

"Dream no small dreams for they have no power to move the hearts of men."

"I love those who yearn for the impossible."

"The soul that sees beauty may sometimes walk alone."

"Correction does much, but encouragement does more."

"Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do."

What Depicts Your Story-Majestic Structure or Ruins?

8/26/2019

After being under the weather for nine days now, I was a bit reluctant to begin my day with the recording of an hour long podcast. However, that was on my schedule for 8:30 A.M. I arrived at school shortly after 7:00 A.M. to walk the premises prior to the start of school. I checked in with the rest of the leadership team, and then began to prepare myself for the podcast. Thankfully, I made it through the whole hour without coughing a single time. The podcast will be posted on Friday. You will be able to find it here:
www.stalbertsportsfan.com/
Just click on the link to the right on the home page, "On The Hill--St. Albert Sports Podcast".

Most of the conversation centered on my book, Articulating Hope. Thus, I did not have to study up on the topic at hand. How do we find hope even in the midst of terrible circumstances? It isn't easy. Quite frankly, as I looked through my file of unused photos, the one pictured above is the one that jumped out to me for use today. Some days we may feel like a massive structure destined for greatness; other days we may feel like an old set of ruins exhibiting what "used to be." (During the last week or so I have felt more like the ruins.) Just remember, both depictions--massive greatness or dilapidated ruins--tell a story. Likewise, we each have a story in good times and in bad. What do those stories communicate to others?

“Everyone must choose one of two pains: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret.”
~Jim Rohn

In yesterday's Scripture readings we were told to "strengthen your drooping hands and your weak knees." In other words, choose the pain of discipline and not the pain of regret. We each have a responsibility to help build the Kingdom of God. There is no time for complacency and mediocrity.

What are the gifts with which God has blessed you? How are you using those gifts to build the Kingdom? Let's get to it, and let's do it with some urgency!

Corpus Christi Parish--Back To School BBQ

8/24/2019

It was my privilege to preach at the 4:00 P.M. Mass this evening at Corpus Christi Parish in Council Bluffs, Iowa. While seasonal allergies are impacting my health, I am grateful that I was still able to maintain this commitment this evening. I know my congested voice was not pleasant to endure, but I am grateful for all of the positive feedback after Mass in regard to the content of my homily. Once again, I preached about things I needed to hear. Apparently I was not the only one that needed to hear it.

Many parishioners and guests stayed after Mass for the Back to School BBQ. There were games, live music, and the St. Albert Football Team provided great customer service for the guests. I did not stay a long time at the BBQ, but it was great to meet more folks and enjoy some fellowship before heading back home to get more rest.

I want to thank Coach Ryan for his dedication and leadership. He gives of his time in many different ways at the school. His participation in the BBQ with his football team was a blessing to all of us in attendance. I am grateful to him and to his family. I know the sacrifices our family members make as we serve others in our ministry.

My thanks also to Mrs. Whitfield for crossing the river to come over for the BBQ as well. Your dedication is appreciated.

I know this past week has required a huge amount of hours from the leadership team. They all stepped up and gave generously of themselves to make sure everything was ready for the start of school. Please know of my gratitude for each of you.

Under The Weather But Beginning To Bounce Back

8/21/2019

I made it through all of Monday with the opening prayer service, breakfast, and faculty meetings. However, by the end of the day I knew I was quickly approaching my limit. I started not feeling well on Sunday, and by the end of the day on Monday I knew I was starting to lose the fight. I was going to have to get rest.

The work night scheduled for Monday evening had been on my agenda, but I had to be prudent and skip out. This was phase two of beautifying the campus. Based upon the work accomplished in my absence, I was not missed too much. I am grateful to all who gave so generously of their time to spruce up our entrances to the school.

Tuesday found me completely wiped out from upper respiratory issues. It was a difficult decision, but I skipped the elementary "Meet Your Teacher" gathering on Tuesday evening. I was in no shape to attend, and I certainly did not want to share my illness with a bunch of other people. This was not how I intended to spend this week.

I enjoyed the many photos on social media from the "Meet Your Teacher" event. It looks like it was a great turnout. There is excitement in the air, and I am thrilled to see it. It is going to be a great school year.

I am starting to bounce back from my illness, and it is none too early. The first day of school is Friday. Corpus Christi Parish is hosting a "Back to School BBQ" on Saturday after the 4:00 P.M. Mass. I have been invited to preach at the 4:00 P.M. Mass. Thus, there is still much to do this week.

Many thanks to all of you who are sharing in the hard work of getting everything ready for our first day of school. You are a blessing!

Well supplied and ready to go!

An Awesome Morning With The Faculty and Staff

8/19/2019

Today was my first day with all of the faculty and staff gathered in one place. We began the day with prayer in the elementary school chapel. There is no better way to start out the school year than by gathering for prayer. After nourishing our souls we then moved to the cafeteria to nourish our bodies.

Many thanks to Karen for providing us a hearty breakfast.

The faculty and staff enjoyed the meal and the fellowship.

We gathered for our first meeting in the auditorium. I shared my vision and dreams for the upcoming school year. (As you can tell by the photo, they were good Catholics and sat in the back.)

After I finished my presentation in 33 minutes (only three minutes over), I stepped outside to see the progress on the main entryway sidewalk. The old concrete had been removed over the weekend. The top photo shows what it looked like after that portion of the work was completed.

As I stepped out after my presentation the new concrete was already being poured.

When I walked out at lunch time this is what I saw. Awesome!

It was nice outside so I strolled down the sidewalk for a little walk and came upon the gymnasium entrance with its added decor. Yes indeed, we are fired up about the new school year.

Ice Cream Capital of the World--Le Mars, Iowa

8/19/2019

"In 1994 the Iowa State Legislature officially declared Le Mars, Iowa the Ice Cream Capital of the World." I guess that is one way to draw attention to your state. This designation worked for me. It made me drive 26 miles further than what I intended. (Even my atlas had it printed in red next to Le Mars about the Ice Cream Capital of the World Museum. Yes, I use a GPS, but I still like looking at a map for the bigger picture all at once.)

I missed "Ice Cream Days" this year. I'll try to attend next year.

In 2009, when I moved to Cheyenne, Wyoming, I was impressed with the artwork spread around the city in the form of decorative cowboy boots. As I explored the city of Le Mars, Iowa, I was impressed with the artwork spread around the city in the form of ice cream cones. Capitalizing on being declared the ice cream capital of the world is quite evident.

This ice cream cone was right in front of my parking spot. How appropriate!

I would love to have these images displayed at school in some fashion.

Yes, the cone pictured above was displayed inside a bank entryway.

Give thanks to God for the many blessings we enjoy.

What Is Your Vision For The Journey Of Life?

8/18/2019

"People do not follow programs; rather, they follow leaders who inspire them."
~John Maxwell

As I looked at the sculpture (pictured above) in front of the state capitol in Des Moines, I tried to picture the historical context. What was taking place? What were the relationships between those depicted in the piece of art? What was the central figure looking to see off in the distance? How did his vision differ from the other two?

There are many details bouncing around in my mind as we approach the start of the new school year. Is everything ready? Have all of the maintenance things been accomplished for a bright and fresh start to the year? Has all of the paperwork been completed for new hires? Did these individuals complete safe environment training and other aspects of orientation? Is everything ready for the students--books, class schedules, lockers, etc.? Are all of the things needed for Fall Sports in place? Have we attended to the details of other extra-curricular activities that will be starting soon?

There are a lot of moving pieces involved with getting a school year up and going. Just as we have our responsibilities at the school, the parents are also busy getting uniforms, school supplies, physical check-ups for their children, and a whole list of other things as well. I am sure a few are squeezing in some last minute fun too. Awesome!

After being involved with Catholic education for almost two decades now, I am convinced of the relevance of John Maxwell's quote listed above. Our Catholic schools need solid leadership to thrive. I have spent my adult life studying leadership. What works? What does not work? How do effective leaders function? What makes a good boss versus a bad boss?

Studying leadership is only step one. Step two is putting that knowledge into action. If knowledge is not applied, it is only a compilation of information. I want to implement the many good things that I have learned through the years so that we can build a thriving organization. The mission of Christ and His Church deserves no less than our best.

I read something many years ago that said you cannot expect to lead people unless you have spent time praying for them first. Since I agreed to accept this position as executive director nearly five months ago, I have been praying for the St. Albert Catholic Schools community. I decided to bump this up a notch last week.

Have you ever heard of the 54 Day Rosary Novena? A novena is nine days of prayer. The 54 Day Rosary Novena is six consecutive novenas. The first three are novenas of petition. The second three are novenas of gratitude. Multiply nine days by six times and you get the resulting 54 days. A typical time to pray this 54 day novena is from the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on August 15, through the feast day of Our Lady of the Rosary on October 7. I am only into the fourth day of the novena, but I am lifting St. Albert up in prayer each day with a definite purpose of asking God's favor upon us. Please Lord, give us fervor and joy in our ministry.

Mediocrity and complacency can destroy any organization. This is especially true in nonprofit organizations where success is based upon the willingness of people to invest in the mission of the organization. Thus, Catholic education must demonstrate the pursuit of excellence if it is to be successful. In that regard, I have generally found that people are excited and willing to support a winning endeavor. People appreciate being involved with something that is making a positive difference in the world. Leadership that inspires others will set the stage for making that happen.

When I accepted the position of Executive Director for St. Albert Catholic Schools earlier this year, I recognized the responsibility that was attached to such an agreement. I want you to know that it is a responsibility that I do not take lightly. We are entrusted with educating and forming children as followers of Christ from "Cradle to College". It is no small mission to build the Kingdom of God here on earth. My leadership impacts the lives of the faculty and staff, the students, their parents, the alumni, and all the supporters of the school. Quite frankly, our school impacts the city of Council Bluffs in a fairly significant manner. We actually have a much wider reach when you think about graduates making an impact wherever they go after leaving St. Albert. It matters what we do here. Please lift me up in prayer on a regular basis that I fulfill this mission with God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit.

Thankfully, I am surrounded by some fantastic people sharing in these leadership responsibilities. I pray for them every day to be guided by God's grace and mercy as they carry this burden of responsibility with me. I invite you to pray for them as well.

As I meet more and more of the faculty members, I am thrilled to see excitement and enthusiasm in their faces as they approach the new year. That is uplifting. I want to be sure that our school culture is an environment where the teachers remain optimistic and energized about their ministry.

The support staff has been magnificent all summer long. Their attention to detail has been deeply appreciated. Our successes will owe each of these people behind the scenes a debt of gratitude.

We are also supported by many people serving on boards and other entities providing guidance, input, and financial assistance. I am grateful for each of them, and I remember them in my daily prayers as well.

What is the vision for what we do here at St. Albert? We are pursuing academic excellence in a Catholic Christian environment that proclaims the Good News of Salvation. Wow! It is clear why I wake up each morning looking forward to another day. This is a beautiful purpose and mission. I am blessed to be a small part of it.

Faculty meetings start on Monday. First day of class is Friday. Here we go!

Memorial Service for Carroll E. Cox

8/17/2019

I attended a Memorial Service this morning for Carroll E. Cox. Several people asked me on Friday if I knew the Cox family. I replied that I did not. Each person then described the family to me and related a story or two. It became quite clear that I needed to be present for the Memorial Service to honor a family that has blessed St. Albert so abundantly.

Indeed, I have now met many of the Cox family members, although I wish it could have been under different circumstances. My prayers and condolences go out to all of them during their time of grief.

I delivered a candle yesterday to the funeral home on behalf of the St. Albert Catholic Schools community. It was a pleasant surprise to walk into the funeral home this morning and see the candle displayed prominently near the guest registry book and burning brightly. It is my hope that the school always serves to be a beacon of light in our community.

"Eternal rest grant unto Carroll, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen."

Getting Closer To Football Season @ St. Albert

8/16/2019

It was a beautiful and tranquil evening for football fans young and old at St. Albert. Youngsters were allowed to join the players on the field for some warm-up exercises and special teams routines. Others opted to play in a bounce house located at the end of the field. Adults visited with one another and watched the drills taking place under the watchful eyes of the coaches.

I met many more people this evening, and I was once again amazed at the stories. The passion that alumni hold for this school is astounding. The commitment and financial sacrifices that people make to have their children and grandchildren in the school is laudable. There is something very special about this school and I am grateful to now be a small part of it.

I extend my gratitude to the athletic director, the coaches, the players, the parents, volunteers, the field crew, and all who support the athletic endeavors at the school. It takes many people to make these endeavors successful. Please know of my gratitude for each of you.

Trinity Heights in Sioux City, Iowa (Part 9)

8/16/2019

Saint Peter and Saint Paul lead the way.

St. Padre Pio

St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Do you see St. Francis of Assisi in the background of the top photo?

This is a closer view of St. Francis of Assisi

There is much to see at Trinity Heights in Sioux City, Iowa. I hope my brief photo tour over recent days has given you an idea of what awaits you if you decide to visit.