28.8.11

August 28, 2011

Thanks to those parents and friends who have helped this week:
● Matt and Debbi Holke (parents of 3 alumni) who hosted the weekenders on Friday night.
● Mrs. Chelsea Lenahan and Mrs. Mary Shelton for driving carpools.
● Mr. Ralph Martin and his son, Michael, who helped prepare for the school’s Sunday luncheon.
● Mrs. Elizabeth Park for picking up students at the train station on Sunday evening.
● Dr. and Mrs. Bruce Schardt along with their sons, Brian and Scott, who helped host the school’s Sunday luncheon
● Mr. John Shaffer and his sons, Will and Ian, who helped prepare for the school’s Sunday luncheon.

School Pictures School pictures will be taken Tuesday. Please be sure your son returns to school with a well groomed haircut.

Labor Day Weekend Reminder that this coming weekend is a 3-day weekend. Students return on Monday evening.

Parent/Student Handbook: PROCEDURES FOR FRIDAY DISMISSAL AND WEEKEND STAYS All students should be picked up from St. Michael’s for the Friday dismissal by 1 PM. In the event that a parent or guardian of a student encounters an emergency situation that delays their arrival to the school, the student may remain at the school until 4 PM.

With regard to the actual dismissal on Fridays, the parent or guardian must report to the supervising Dean of Students, who is monitoring student dismissal, and sign their son out. Only those individuals who are registered parents or guardians with the Headmaster’s Office will be allowed to retrieve their students.

For those students who routinely stay over the weekend at St. Michael’s, they are supervised by a Norbertine confrere assigned to weekend supervision. In the event that a weekend boarding student opts out of their weekend status to stay locally with a St. Michael’s host family, the parents of that student and the hosting parents must email the Headmaster’s Office by 12 PM the Wednesday before, giving mutual permission for the opting out of weekend status for that particular weekend. A student will not be granted opt out status of weekend stay by casually stating to a member of the faculty that they are staying over the weekend at another student’s home. If concurrent permission is not received from the concerned parents via email by the stated deadline, the student will not be released to the host family by the Dean of Students.
Oftentimes students who live locally and return home each weekend are invited to stay the weekend with another local school family. This arrangement will also require notification to the Headmaster’s office via email by 12 PM the Wednesday before in order that the supervising Dean will be aware of the arrangement when releasing the student to the host family.

For those students who routinely transit home by train after Friday dismissal, St. Michael’s will facilitate the transportation of that student to the nearest train station for a nominal transportation fee. However, the student’s parents or guardian must confirm the fact that the student will be traveling home by train for the weekend. The parent or guardian will be required to email the Headmasters Office by 12 pm, Wednesday, of each week to confirm their son will in fact be traveling home. They will also provide the departure time of the train their student will be taking home.

This same procedure shall be followed for those students who will be flying home for the weekend. The parent or guardian must arrange for a shuttle transport for their student from St. Michael’s to the airport.

Weekly Homily by Fr. Benedict Solomon
Among other things Fr. Benedict Solomon teaches religion to freshmen, juniors and seniors.
“…That each of you know how to acquire a wife for himself in holiness and honor, not in lustful passion…not to take advantage of or exploit a brother or sister in this matter, for the Lord is an Avenger in all these things.”

Men are either protectors or predators. They either exploit others for their own pleasure, are selfish, or they go out of themselves and make sacrifices for others, without expecting anything in return.

At this school you students have the opportunity to grow in holiness like nowhere else. By going to confession, Mass and Holy Hour you have before your eyes the greatest protector and example of all, Jesus Christ. How you respond to God’s will for you here, which is your holiness, will affect how you go about your life here at school.

Will you exploit others for your own amusement, or like Christ, will you teach others by your example? Later you will start a family of your own, if you don’t become a priest. How you respond to God’s will for you now will affect how you choose a wife and what kind of father and husband you will be.

A man who is a protector is one who looks out for the physical and spiritual good of those in his life. Pornography, impure relationships, impure thoughts and acts – these are acts that exploit others-these are acts of a predator. This issue is so important not only for your lives but also for society, that God Himself swears that He will avenge those who are exploited.
In other words, every act of lust and exploitation of others will be avenged. “Whoever disregards this, disregards God, who also gives the Holy Spirit to you.”

Here at the Abbey you are given an abundance of grace. Keep the flame of divine love burning within you not only by prayer, but by the oil of Charity for your fellow students. So now, prepare for your future, your wife, children, or flock, by making sacrifices and helping those around you.

In publishing this homily, we hope to share a portion of the spiritual treasure by which the students are enriched every day. However, this homily may not be reproduced without written permission of the author.

This Week’s Photos: ● Freshmen busily working to complete a project.
● Matt and Debbie Holke (parents of 3 alumni).

This Weeks Birthdays 8/28 Kevin Nguyen-Tran
9/5 Luan Tran
9/8 Brian Schardt
Prayer Requests · Mrs. Marge DeClue, past parent-league president, who has declining health.
· Mrs. Mary Fischinger, grandmother of Ian Shaffer, who is recovering after some difficulties with her heart.
· Those who are in the armed forces.
· St. Michael’s older priests and those who care for them


27.8.11

August 26, 2011

As summertime turns to school year, St. Michael’s Prep finishes highlighting its Graduates of 2011.

JAMES THANH-LONG TRAN

I heard my first senior reflection as a freshman. Reflections, for the most part, were all the same: the seniors talk about their gratitude for the faith, the strong friendships they form, the memorable experiences they had, and the people who helped them. Everything those alumni said sounded so cliché. As the years went by, I tried to understand what those seniors were saying. I honestly felt like this school seemed like any other school, plus a lot of spirituality. I did not know why previous students said that they were grateful for the time they spent praying.

It was not until the last quarter of school that I finally came to appreciate all the time that I spent in church. Living with other seniors helped show me the importance of prayer. It may seem ridiculous, but praying for my friends to get into college was the reason I took praying seriously. By deepening my prayer life, I started to receive Communion with a deeper appreciation. Now, even praying the rosary is a daily habit. For bringing me deeper into my faith, I am truly thankful.

I thank my friends for their constant support and encouragement. I also thank my teachers for their continual help and understanding. Lastly, I thank my family for their never-ending love and countless sacrifices.

As my time at St. Michael’s comes to an end, I can honestly say that everything that the seniors before me said was true. I have had a great time at this school, both with my friends in the classes and, at last, in the faith. Despite my efforts to not sound cliché, I realize that this consistency in forming men of faith and strong friendships is what makes this school such a special place. Likewise, it is for this reason that I am so grateful to have attended St. Michael’s Prep.

Activities and Awards

Activities
Speech and Debate (2007-2011)
Football (2009, 2010), Captain 2010
Soccer (2007- 2011)
Cross Country (2007-2009)
Room Leader
Eagle Scout
Published poet
Altar Server
Bethesda Project
St. Michael’s Summer Camp, volunteer

Awards
Bank of America Award in the field of English
Latin Scholar, Magna Cum Laude
California Scholarship Federation, Life member
National Honor Society
President’s Scholarship
Torero Pride Scholarship

James has chosen to continue his education at the University of California, Irvine.

Prayer Requests
● Mrs. Marge DeClue who struggles with cancer.
● Those who are in the armed forces.
● Those who travel over the summer.
● St. Michael’s older priests and those who care for them.

24.8.11

August 26, 2011

Throughout the summer St. Michael’s Prep highlights its Graduates of 2011. The highlight includes an excerpt from the graduate’s formal reflection about his experiences, a summary of activities and awards, as well as a section of photos.


VITALYI TRACTENBERG

I had gone to St. Michael’s summer camp. I thought that coming to this school would bring lots of fun, leisure, and friendships. As my first year began I began going through the longest, hardest year of my life. Freshman year was full of trials that I had to overcome. In that year I developed the virtues of perseverance and hard work. It was the year I had to learn self-control, time management, and maturity, which I lacked as a freshman. I started to believe that St. Michael’s was not for me, but encouragement from the priests and teachers provided wonderful examples.

The priests provided spiritual counsel and instruction of the faith. They fostered a true spiritual life and deep longing for God. Daily prayer, holy hour, and Mass became meaningful as I entered into a deep spiritual union with the Lord. These priests were not only there for me in church, but also in my daily life. They were my coaches, teachers, and deans. As I proceeded with my everyday life, I saw their deep love for Christ in the daily work they did.

The lay teachers were also wonderful Christian examples. At times, I was ready to quit but my teachers at St. Michael’s always pushed me and encouraged me in my darkest hours. They would take time out of their personal lives to come help me with schoolwork and developing my character.

Another important thing I gained from this school is the priceless friendships I have formed. My friends are like none other. They go out of their way to help me just as I do for them. The bonds I have formed with my fellow classmates are sure to last a lifetime. As the years progressed, I see the great benefits of this school. Four years at St. Michael’s has made me into the man I will be in the future.

Activities and Awards

Activities
Football (2008-2011), Defensive Player of the Year
Hungarian Boy Scouts
Volunteer at the Blind Children's Learning Center

Awards
Bank of America Award in the field of Physical Education


Vitalyi has chosen to continue his education at the University of Dallas.


Prayer Requests
● Those who are in the armed forces.
● Those who travel over the summer.
● St. Michael’s older priests and those who care for them.

19.8.11

August 19, 2011

Throughout the summer St. Michael’s Prep highlights its Graduates of 2011. The highlight includes an excerpt from the graduate’s formal reflection about his experiences, a summary of activities and awards, as well as a section of photos.

DAVID SUH, JR.

The reason my family and I chose St. Michael’s Prep was so that I could receive a prestigious education to prepare me for college. I quickly learned that there is much more involved than receiving good grades. It is about becoming a man of good faith and becoming closer to God through daily Mass, Holy Hour, and Confession. However, it took me a while to realize the importance of Mass and Holy Hour.


Because I received spiritual formation in the previous schools I attended, I thought I was a devout Christian. During my first religion course I noticed that there was so much I didn’t know and so much I needed to learn. The religious at St. Michael’s taught me what it meant to be a good Christian. After learning so much about Catholicism and realizing there was so much more to learn, I decided to convert to Catholicism. I give much thanks to Father Claude for all his help and dedication. I also thank classmate Daniel Murphy-Dimen for being my confirmation sponsor.

St. Michael’s has given me something no other school has offered, which is the consistent availability of teachers before and after classes. It still amazes me how dedicated all the teachers are to being available for help. I would like to thank all the teachers for their dedication and hard work in maintaining the prestige of the school, especially Mr. Tomescu.

I never realized that I would make such close friends that I hope to keep in touch with for as long as I live. I will always remember the adventures I have shared with them, from late nights talking to snowboarding over winter break. I would also like to thank my mom for all the things she has done for me. I will always remember the weekly visits for food, and the constant encouragement she gave me in order that I would succeed in my studies. Now as I prepare to leave, I am closer to God than ever. And for everything else St. Michael’s has given me, I am truly grateful.



Activities and Awards

Activities
Speech and Debate Team (2007-2011)
Football (2007, 2009, 2010), Offensive Play of the Year 2010
Soccer (2008-2009, 2010-2011)
Bethesda Project
Room Leader
Published poet

Awards
St. Augustine Award, St. Michael’s Prep School
Valedictorian
California Scholarship Federation, Life member
National Honor Society
Torero Pride Scholarship

David has chosen to continue his education at the University of California, Irvine.

Special thanks to those families who helped prepare for the opening of the school year:
Mrs. Jennifer Bonello, Mrs. Tracey Pickett, Mrs. Cathy Porretta, and Mrs. Tracee Portka.


Prayer Requests
● Those who are in the armed forces.
● Those who travel over the summer.
● The participants in World Youth Day, 2011
● St. Michael’s older priests and those who care for them.

12.8.11

August 12, 2011

Throughout the summer St. Michael’s Prep highlights its Graduates of 2011. The highlight includes an excerpt from the graduate’s formal reflection about his experiences, a summary of activities and awards, as well as a section of photos.

CHARLES VINCENT ARANAS SANDOVAL


Going to St. Michael’s changed me forever. It was here I learned how to be responsible for myself, grow as a leader, push myself to the limits, and most importantly, become more devoted to God. It was a place where friendships were made, and a strong sense of camaraderie was formed.

When I first arrived at the hilltop I was apprehensive. I doubted that I would be able to make it through my first year. Fortunately, I was wrong. By the grace of God, I felt a sense of accomplishment and built confidence in myself. I also made a lot of good friends that year. Most importantly, my faith grew.

As my sophomore year approached, classes became more demanding. More was expected from me. It was during my junior year when I asked myself, “Is this place really for me?” I was struggling with several classes, a rigorous schedule of tests and quizzes, and completing all my homework assignments. It was during Holy Hour when I asked God whether I should stay or leave St. Michael’s. Thankfully, He answered. And so I decided to stay for Him and for my parents.

Being a part of the cross country team and choir helped me grow as a person. While running helped me become mentally stronger, choir helped me discover my talents and build my self-confidence. Going to Mass, Holy Hour, and confession everyday also helped me grow as a Catholic. I cannot think of any other school that would provide such spiritual support.

There were ups and downs along the road. Despite hardships my classmates and I have had at the hilltop, they helped us grow as young men of God. We were a brotherhood. It made this school unique over other high schools. I did not regret my choice to stay here. It truly was an investment of a lifetime.

Activities and Awards

Activities
Cross Country (2007-2010)
Roomleader (2010-2011)
Altar server (2007-2010)

Awards
Bank of America Award in the field of Religious Studies
B. Braun Medical Scholarship

Charles has chosen to continue his education at the California State University, Fullerton.


Mark your calendar now for Sunday, August 21st and reserve the day for returning to St. Michael’s. The opening day of school is an open invitation to all the families, new and returning, for a day of prayer, food, socializing, and fun. The schedule is:

Opening Day - - - August 21, 2011
• 11 am Sunday Mass in Abbey Church
• 12:45 Buffet Lunch & Set up Dorm Rooms
• 1: 45 Parent Meeting for Mom & Dad
Student Meeting
Fun Activities for Younger Children
• 2:30 Games Together for Fathers & Sons
Getting to Know Each Other for Mothers
• 4 pm Dessert, Ice Cream and Formal Good-byes
• Option: 4:30 pm Rosary; 5:00 pm Vespers


Prayer Requests
● William Mullins who recovers from an injury.
● Those who are in the armed forces.
● Those who travel over the summer.
● The participants in World Youth Day, 2011
● St. Michael’s older priests and those who care for them.






6.8.11

August 5, 2011

Throughout the summer St. Michael’s Prep highlights its Graduates of 2011. The highlight includes an excerpt from the graduate’s formal reflection about his experiences, a summary of activities and awards, as well as a section of photos.

HIEU TRUNG PHAM


When I first arrived at St. Michael’s, I had high hopes of becoming very successful. I was immature. I desired no help. I thought that I would advance through these four years without the aid of the Lord. I met defeat. For two years, I was still determined to be “the best of the best.” It took a toll on my character. I refused to listen, and continued on my wayward journey relentlessly. In my third year at St. Michael’s I finally realized what I was doing.

On a bright, spring day I arrived early to Philosophy class. I took my usual corner of the discussion table. The teacher, Fr. Sebastian, seeing me secluded in a corner said, “No man is an island.” At first, I disregarded that saying. Now, I don’t.

No matter how hard I try to make myself an island, I am connected to the world through God. God cares, supports, and loves me as the person I am. I thank this school, the students, the faculty, and especially my parents, family, and friends for supporting me in prayer and for helping me recognize what God has been offering me.


Activities and Awards

Activities
Cross Country (2007-2009),
Living History Student Ambassador (2007-2009)
Altar Server (2007-2010)
Room Leader (2009-2011)
Sophomore Class President (2008-2009)
Published Poet
Bethesda Project
St. Vincent de Paul Society helping the poor and the elderly

Awards
Bank of America Award in the field of Fine Arts
St. Michael’s Prep School Merit Scholar
California Scholarship Federation, Life member
National Honor Society

Hieu has chosen to continue his education at California State University, Fullerton.


Mark your calendar now for Sunday, August 21st and reserve the day for returning to St. Michael’s. The opening day of school is an open invitation to all the families, new and returning, for a day of prayer, food, socializing, and fun. The schedule is:

Opening Day - - - August 21, 2011
• 11 am Sunday Mass in Abbey Church
• 12:45 Buffet Lunch & Set up Dorm Rooms
• 1: 45 Parent Meeting for Mom & Dad
Student Meeting
Fun Activities for Younger Children
• 2:30 Games Together for Fathers & Sons
Getting to Know Each Other for Mothers
• 4 pm Dessert, Ice Cream and Formal Good-byes
• Option: 4:30 pm Rosary; 5:00 pm Vespers


Prayer Requests
● William Mullins who recovers from an injury.
● Those who are in the armed forces.
● Those who travel over the summer.
● The participants in World Youth Day, 2011
● St. Michael’s older priests and those who care for them.