A letter from Valley Catholic School President Dr. Judd A. Case
Dear Valley Catholic School Community,
As the school year begins, I am drawn to James Tissot’s The Wise Virgins (1886–1894), a striking depiction of the wise women of Matthew 25. Tissot presents them at a moment of slumber, their lamps prepared as they wait for the bridegroom. They rest together — leaning toward one another, hems touching, hands relaxed, feet extending. Even the folds of their clothing echo the seams of the stones behind and beneath them. Their lamps rest before them like votive lights awaiting the coming Lord. The scene is quietly luminous, like a niche in a church.
The women are still, watchful, prepared.
The image seems especially fitting as we begin a new school year. Like Tissot’s wise virgins, we are called to keep our lamps ready. We are called to be attentive to the presence of God in the life we share. At my recent 2027 Missioning presented by the Sisters, we prayed that God’s presence would shape “every lesson, friendship and decision” at Valley Catholic. I have already seen something of that light in the patience and compassion of our principals and teachers, the enthusiasm and respect of our students, and the many ways this community cares for one another.
During these first weeks, I have been listening and learning across Valley Catholic by meeting with our principals and with colleagues in communications, finance, athletics, music, advancement and other areas of school life. Those conversations have helped me better understand both the remarkable work already taking place here and the opportunities before us. Some of that work will be practical: strengthening communication with families, supporting our students and teachers, stewarding our resources well, and helping the many parts of Valley Catholic work together toward a common purpose.
However, a Catholic school is finally about more than good systems and successful programs. We are here to help young people Live Valiantly, Strive for Excellence, Honor the Unique Gifts of Each Person, and Celebrate God and Life. To help them become, in the spirit of the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon, compassionate and joyful servants who carry the Good News of God’s love into the world. That work belongs to all of us: Sisters, faculty and staff, students, parents and families. A new school year is before us, with much to do and much for which to be grateful.
Let’s rise and trim our lamps.
Dr. Judd Case
