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Dear Xavier Families,
As we reach the conclusion of midterm exams, I want to take a moment to recognize the remarkable effort our students have shown since the very beginning of the school year. From their focus and discipline in the classroom to their commitment on the athletic fields, in clubs, and through service opportunities, our young men have embraced every challenge placed before them with determination, resilience, and heart. This week's exams marked the culmination of that hard work, and they have truly earned a well deserved opportunity to rest and recharge.
As we move closer to Christmas, I extend my heartfelt wishes for a peaceful and blessed holiday season to you and your families. Whether your plans include traveling to visit loved ones or celebrating quietly at home, I hope this time offers space to slow down, reflect, and enjoy the presence of those who matter most.
At Xavier, the partnership between school and family remains the foundation of everything we do. We are deeply grateful for the trust you place in us as we guide your sons on their journey of growth in mind, body, and spirit. It is a responsibility we do not take lightly, and one we are honored to carry each day.
Throughout the Advent season, our students, faculty, and staff were invited each morning to gather for our Advent Wreath Prayer Service before first period. These moments of shared prayer serve as a powerful reminder to prepare our hearts with hope and gratitude as we await the joy and light of Christmas.
On behalf of the entire Xavier community, I wish you a blessed and joyful Christmas and a happy and healthy start to the New Year. May this season fill your hearts with peace, renew your spirits, and bring hope as we look ahead to the year to come.
I wanted to share this Sunday's Gospel from Matthew 1: 18-24.
This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about.
When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph,
but before they lived together,
she was found with child through the Holy Spirit.
Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man,
yet unwilling to expose her to shame,
decided to divorce her quietly.
Such was his intention when, behold,
the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said,
"Joseph, son of David,
do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home.
For it is through the Holy Spirit
that this child has been conceived in her.
She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus,
because he will save his people from their sins."
All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:
Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,
and they shall name him Emmanuel,
which means "God is with us."
When Joseph awoke,
he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him
and took his wife into his home.
This week's Gospel places us quietly at the beginning of the Christmas story, not with noise or celebration, but with a decision made in the stillness of the night. Joseph learns that Mary is expecting a child, and his world is suddenly turned upside down. He is described as a righteous man, someone who seeks to do what is right even when the path forward is unclear. Rather than acting out of anger or fear, Joseph chooses compassion. He resolves to protect Mary's dignity, even at personal cost.
Then comes the moment that defines the passage. In a dream, the angel speaks to Joseph and invites him to trust. Trust in God's plan. Trust in a future he cannot yet see. Trust that what seems confusing or even impossible is part of something far greater. Joseph awakens and acts. He does not hesitate or argue. He simply does what God asks of him.
This Gospel reminds us that faith is often lived not through grand gestures, but through quiet obedience, courage, and trust. Joseph becomes the model of faithful leadership, choosing love over fear and action over doubt. He accepts his role with humility and devotion, helping to bring Emmanuel into the world, God with us.
At Xavier, this message resonates deeply. We strive to form young men who, like Joseph, lead with integrity, compassion, and trust in God. Our students are challenged daily to make choices that reflect their values, even when those choices are not the easiest ones. In classrooms, on athletic fields, and within our community, we ask our young men to act justly, care for others, and remain open to where God is calling them.
As we continue through this Advent season, this Gospel invites our Xavier families to pause and reflect. It reminds us that God is present in our lives, even in moments of uncertainty. Like Joseph, may we trust, listen, and move forward with faith, knowing that God is with us always.
God Bless!
Mr. Cerreta '01
President, Xavier High School
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CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS
- Sunday, Dec. 21: Fourth Sunday of Advent
- Wednesday, Dec. 24: Christmas Eve (School/Offices Closed)
- Thursday, Dec. 25: Christmas (School/Offices Closed)
- Friday, Dec. 26: Artie Kohs Classic (5:30 PM / 7:15 PM)
- Saturday, Dec. 27: Artie Kohs Classic (5:30 PM / 7:15 PM)
- Wednesday, Dec. 31: New Year's Eve (School/Offices Closed)
- Thursday, Jan. 1: New Year's Day (School/Offices Closed)
- Monday, Jan. 5: Classes Resume (A Day)
- Tuesday, Jan. 6: Blessings on the New Year Mass (9:10 AM)
- Sunday, Jan. 11: Sophomore Retreat #3
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FROM THE DIOCESE OF NORWICH
The Jubilee Year proclaimed by Pope Francis will end on Epiphany. Special graces, called Indulgences, are available to pilgrims at Saint Patrick Cathedral. On Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. we will have Adoration and pray the Liturgy of the Hours along with confessions so the faithful may have one last opportunity to participate in the Holy Year graces. Please join Bishop Reidy and our priests on Epiphany at the Cathedral. Please see the Diocesan website, www.norwichdiocese.org for more details. ______________________________________________________
FROM THE DEAN OF STUDENTS
- Parents: Your sons have been reminded of our hair and grooming policy. If your son is in need of a haircut, please make sure he has it taken care when we return from break. A reminder that burst fades are not allowed. Failure to do so will result in detention. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
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FROM THE SCHOOL STORE
- Brother John has updated the price list for the school store. You can find updated information HERE.
Special Christmas School Store Hours at Xavier:
Friday, December 19: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Tuesday, December 23: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
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FROM THE SCHOOL COUNSELING OFFICE
- Scholarships for our senior students are now available. You can review the scholarships in Naviance to search for ones relevant to your son.
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FROM THE DIRECTOR OF ENROLLMENT
- ASSE International is partnering with Xavier High School to welcome international high school exchange students, ages 15-18, into your family and create bonds that will last a lifetime. Hosting an international student offers a unique cultural exchange experience for both the student and your family. To learn more about hosting an international exchange student click here or contact Chris Sansone, Director of Enrollment.
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