The very first act of God in the story of creation, as found in the Book of Genesis, was to create light. “In the beginning, when God created the heavens and the earth, and the earth was without form or shape, with darkness over the abyss and a mighty wind sweeping over the waters, then God said: Let there be light, and there was light” Genesis 1:1-3. Ever since that first moment of creation, light has been a major theme in the Sacred Scriptures, in our liturgical rituals and prayers, and in our everyday lived experiences. Light banishes darkness, illuminates the world, provides warmth, and gives us hope.

A few years ago, the city of Chicago went about replacing the old streetlights with new, energy efficient LED fixtures. They use less energy, so they were definitely the way to go. But one of the consequences of that choice, wether intended or not, is that the new light fixtures are focused to only cast light where it is needed, and not everywhere as was the case with the older streetlights. This obviously cuts down on light pollution, but it also meant that everything else would be more in the dark. I immediately noticed this when the facade of our beautiful church became extremely dark. I remember thinking at the time, “God did say, ‘Let there be light,’ but I don’t think he had LEDs in mind!”

Ever since then, it’s been very unfortunate how much darker all of our buildings look at night. To begin, less light makes it easier for crime to happen. But, equally as important, for a faith community that wants to communicate to the world, “all are welcome!” a darkened church or school building actually communicates “stay away!” 

As our buildings sit in the dark, on a major street like Addison, the world seemingly rushes by without noticing there’s a church here, and a school as well. Buildings that are lit up at night not only show off their beautiful architecture, they also make their presence known. They say, “we’re here!” Some of those people buzzing by on any given evening may be searching for something more in life, like faith. Or they may have a child who could use more than what a public school has to offer. But, in the midst of their concerns, it would be very easy for them to miss what Saint Andrew has to offer, if our buildings simply recess into the dark.

As part of this year’s Wearin’ the Green (WTG), our designated Fund-a-Need will be for the purchase and installation of exterior lighting for our church and school buildings, as well as new security cameras to monitor the many entrances of all our buildings. Safety of our entire community, especially our children, is of the upmost importance. Also of value is our church and school’s communication to the outside world, “we’re here and we welcome you.” 

Please support this year’s Fund-a-Need by making a donation to this worthy project. Donations can be made to the project at www.standrew.org/lettherebelight. Every contribution, large or small will help us get to our goal of making Saint Andrew be a beacon of hope in our community. So, as was said, with the very first words spoken by God, “Let there be light!”

Yours in Christ,

Fr. Sergio Romo

Super School Sunday, January 26, 2025

• 8am: Prospective Family Tours

Reservations are recommended but not required. Contact Anne Japsen (annejapsen@gosaintandrew.com) for more information.

• 9am: Family Mass in Saint Andrew Church 

• 10am: Annual Pancake Breakfast in our School Gym

Tickets can be purchased online:https://standrewchicago.flocknote.com/signup/193336 Presales: $12 per adult, $10 per child (2 years and under FREE). Tickets can also be purchased on the day of the event.Cash or QR Code only - $14 adults and $10 children

• 11am: Current Family Tours

Take a walk through your child's current classroom. Stop by next year's classroom to get a glimpse of the future.

Baby Bulldogs Winter Session

Registration is Now Open! Baby Bulldogs is a weekly meeting for infants, toddlers and their caregivers. Come join the fun! Baby Bulldogs meets in the Saint Andrew gym on Thursdays from 9-9:45am.  Sessions are January 30 through April 24 (no class on March 20).

Register here​​​​​​​

If you have any questions, please contact Anne Japsen at annejapsen@gosaintandrew.com

We look forward to seeing you there!

Come Join Us!

Do you have a friend or neighbor that is considering applying to the best school in Chicago? Sign up for a tour here: schedule a tour New student applications for the 25-26 can be found here: New Student Application