As I was reflecting on the year ahead, the image of water continued to return to me. Anthropologically life-giving, constantly redefining itself in endless patterns and waves, and flowing within the contours of its environment, water is the preeminent description of fluidity. This year, fluidity will be an essential mindset, an important competency, and a quality of character.

This year, I believe that the world calls us to form a deeper union in that which draws us together: the heart of Jesus. In the heart of Jesus, we are all one: our bonds grow stronger. In the heart of Jesus, we are united through our collaboration with one another. In the heart of Jesus, we are welcomed, included, accepted, and loved. Our theme for the school year is, thus, an aspirational one; one that expresses our yearning for oneness in a blessed and broken world:

This was the hope of our Foundress, St. Madeleine Sophie Barat for our communities in mission. She expressed it as the motto of the Society.

ONE HEART AND ONE MIND IN THE HEART OF JESUS.

Naturally, we cannot only hope for oneness of mind and heart and spirit. If it is to become a reality, we must open our hearts and minds and strive for it with the willingness to be transformed. With the world’s agenda setting our course this year, we can each pray for the grace to be a community of Christ’s heart; to all that this will invite us.

The image of a wave suggests the importance of graceful balanced movement; one that will be important for us as individuals and community. The year ahead will be a dynamic one. As our reports to you have detailed, we have plans in place to respond to the multiple needs of our school and its multiple constituency groups. Naturally, our plans will change regularly in alignment with the current situational reality within the school and within the regulatory environment.

True patience and the cooperation will be required, of course, and with largesse of heart during these unprecedented times. I hope that each one of you readers can find that deep interior space where peace and balance reside. Situate yourselves for riding on the beautiful waves of life. Connect with your breath and find your rhythm “on the wave” for a new beginning of the 2020-2021 school year.