At Notre Dame, we understand the value and importance of faith; it is the common bond that permeates everything we do, that guides us in all our relationships, and gives each of us hope when we are faced with challenges. We have heard the expression, “It is caught more than it is taught”. That idea suggests that faith is more a matter of the heart than just what we learn through our education. The idea that faith is important but faith in action is even more important. All of us can demonstrate our faith in action every day in our relationships, and whenever we perform acts of justice, service, or love. When it comes to school life, it is very easy to get caught up completely with academic performance and extra-curricular success. Both are very important. But we must never forget that the most important aspect for adolescence during their secondary school experience has always been and will always be centered on their relationships — with family, teachers and coaches, and especially friends. Our hope is that all those interactions are permeated by a sincere relationship with our creator God. In the midst of developing and nurturing all of those other connections, it is important that they continue to allow their faith to guide and influence them in all of their decision making. The more success we have in assisting our children in doing just that, the better chance they will have of developing happy, healthy, long-lasting relationships... and the better chance they will have of truly honoring, in every way possible, their commitment to their faith.