2025-26 Scripture Theme: “A Future Filled with HOPE!” ~ Jeremiah 29:11
Reflection on 2025-26 Scripture Theme:
“A Future Filled with HOPE!” ~ Jeremiah 29:11
As we approached the end of our 2024-25 school year, my first here at Annunciation, I began to inquire about our process of selecting a Scripture theme for each school year. With so many great verses already adopted, implemented, and decorating the walls on our campus, it took some time for us to identify some options. However, when three options were put forward, it was clear that “A future filled with HOPE!” was the winner - with a resounding 80% of the popular vote! This verse was chosen very intentionally to celebrate the beginning of a new chapter for our community with new leadership for both our parish and school. Below is the full verse along with some Biblical context that it comes from:
“For I know full well the plans I have for you, plans for your welfare and not for your misfortune, plans that will offer you a future filled with hope.”
~ Jeremiah 29:11
Taken from the book of the prophet Jeremiah, this verse is part of a wider passage foreshadowing God's people returning from exile to reclaim their homeland and to better follow and live out God's plan for them. Entering into our 102nd school year here at Annunciation, this verse divinely captures where we are in place and time. There is no sugarcoating the fact that we begin this school year having had transitions in key leadership roles (pastor and principal) three years in a row. With Fr. Zehren commissioned as our new pastor for the years ahead and my invitation to serve as our principal, we are eager to begin our shared work in partnership with each of you - our dynamic faculty, staff, parent, parish, and student community members.
When I think about our Annunciation future, I am filled with hope! With stability in leadership, a revamped administrative structure and team, the most dedicated and talented faculty and staff you could ask for, committed and generous families, and our one-of-a-kind (in Minnesota!) Catholic, International Baccalaureate academic program, we are destined for excellence and greatness in the year (and years) ahead!
While there are certainly challenges that lie before us - navigating the transitions in leadership, ensuring all shareholders are aligned in a revitalized mission and vision, growing our enrollment, maintaining and modernizing a 102-year old facility, and providing a truly inclusive, first-in-class academic program, to name a few - each challenge presents us with opportunities to work together, in partnership, to envision and build our communal future filled with hope!
Thank you for choosing Annunciation and investing in your children’s education. We look forward to the work ahead.
In gratitude and partnership,
Matthew D. DeBoer, Principal
