"Give me one more thing, O Lord: a grateful heart." - Saint Francis de Sales

Dear Visitation School Families:

Being together on campus as a school community is one of the many blessings I am counting this Thanksgiving. That was made possible by a host of other blessings: our state-of-the-art facilities, our vast campus, the gift of the Sisters' Monastery and the vigilance of our faculty, staff, parents and students to follow Covid-19 safety protocols.

We are designed to be together. This Thanksgiving, we see more clearly how special our community is. I appreciate each student – each voice, each set of smiling eyes, each unique personality – and the unique blend of gifts and talents that animates this building. The sum truly is greater than the parts.

That's what sprang to mind as I listened to the Upper School Choirs perform "Amazing Grace" in the Heart. Even with masks on, their voices rang out, filling the space. "Through many dangers, toils and snares we have already come," they sang. " 'Twas grace hath brought us safe thus far and grace will lead us home." I have no doubt that Grace has bolstered us these past several months.

We'll continue to be tested in the coming weeks as winter takes its hold and the coronavirus surges. Again, we will summon courage, kindness and patience – and hopefully a measure of joyful optimism. I cannot imagine more incredible partners in the journey.

I wish you a joyous and peaceful Thanksgiving.

Gratefully,

Artwork created by Reece Bergeron '21