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"First and foremost every Catholic educational institution is a place to encounter the living God who in Jesus Christ reveals his transforming love and truth (cf. Spe Salvi, 4)."

Pope Benedict XVI, Address to Catholic Educators, 17 April 2008

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Dear NCEA Elementary Department Members:

As we come to the end of another school year, I want to personally thank each of you for the great work you have done this year. The mission of Catholic education is stronger thanks to your dedicated service. You have touched the hearts and minds of your students and brought them closer to the God who loves them. I hope that each of you will find some time for a well-deserved rest during the summer months ahead.

In looking ahead, I want you to know that we are going to offer a new format for the Elementary Department Newsletter in the upcoming school year. At the recommendation of the Department of Elementary Schools Executive Committee (DESEC) -- your elected regional representatives -- you will receive only one comprehensive newsletter each month. It will contain articles and suggestions for teachers, parents, and administrators. This will save you from receiving multiple electronic mailings from us each month.

I also want to remind you that if you renew or upgrade to premier membership by June 30th, you will save money and be among the first to receive Seasons of Holiness - a CD containing two years of religiously-themed parent newsletters that can be duplicated or sent electronically. Please refer to the e-mail you recently received from NCEA Member Services.

May God bless you abundantly in the days and weeks ahead.

Brother Robert Bimonte
Executive Director
Department of Elementary Schools
NCEA 

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The medieval Church of Santa Maria foris portas at Castelseprio (Italy). Detail of Apse.  1st Half of 9th Century.

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