Welcome back to a new school year!

September has come and gone, and what an adventure it has been. So much has already happened that it is hard to believe we have only been together for one month. As I look ahead to the year before us, I am reminded that much of what lies ahead remains a mystery. We do not know all that this year will bring, but we do know that there is important work to be done.

In the busyness of school life, it is easy to become consumed by all the things we have to do. We can become so focused on schedules, deadlines, responsibilities, and expectations that we sometimes lose sight of the many things we get to do. We can become so immersed in the process and so burdened by the details that we forget to appreciate the gift of the journey itself.

In the Prayer, We Are Prophets of a Future Not Our Own, St. Oscar Romero reminds us to step back, trust in God’s providence, and recognize that we are not called to accomplish everything on our own or to see the full results of our work. We are called to be faithful—to do the work entrusted to us, to enjoy the privilege of doing it, and to trust God with the fruits of our labour.

This year, our school theme is “The Good Seed Will Grow.” It is a beautiful reminder of who we are and what we are called to do at St. Thomas More Collegiate. Every day, through our words, our actions, our relationships, our faith, and our commitment to learning, we are planting seeds. Some will take root immediately; others may not reveal their growth for years. Yet, we trust that every act of kindness, every lesson learned, every challenge overcome, every prayer offered, and every opportunity to serve contributes to something greater.

When I think about the year ahead, I am not anxious about all that remains to be done. I am not overwhelmed by unfinished tasks or burdened by the promises we have made. Instead, I am filled with excitement and gratitude.

We have the privilege of belonging to a hopeful, collaborative, and loving community. We have the privilege of planting good seeds. We have the privilege of nurturing the seeds planted by those who came before us; most importantly, we have the privilege of being the workers who get to build God’s Kingdom.

May we embrace this year with faith, joy, courage, and gratitude. May we be patient when we cannot yet see the fruits of our labour. May we trust that God is working through us, within us, and amongst us. May we always remember that the good seed will grow.

Live, Jesus, in Our Hearts, Forever!

Joe Adams, Principal

St. Oscar Romero Prayer – We Are Prophets of a Future Not Our Own

It helps, now and then, to step back and take the long view.
The Kingdom is not only beyond our efforts; it is even beyond our vision.
We accomplish in our lifetime only a fraction of the magnificent enterprise that is God’s work.
Nothing we do is complete, which is another way of saying that the Kingdom always lies beyond us.
No statement says all that could be said.
No prayer fully expresses our faith.
No confession brings perfection.
No pastoral visit brings wholeness.
No program accomplishes the church’s mission.
No set of goals and objectives includes everything.
This is what we are about.

We plant the seeds that one day will grow.
We water the seeds already planted, knowing that they hold future promise.

We lay foundations that will need further development.
We provide yeast that produces effects far beyond our capabilities.
We cannot do everything and there is a sense of liberation in realizing that.  This enables us to do something and to do it well.  It may be incomplete, but it is a beginning, a step along the way, an opportunity for the Lord’s grace to enter and do the rest.
We may never see the end results, but that is the difference between the master builder and the worker.
We are workers, not master builders; ministers, not messiahs.
We are prophets of a future not our own.

Truth & Reconciliation Service

STMC prepared a Truth and Reconciliation service for its school community on Friday September 25th. The themes brought forward for the event were the Common Good and some of the First Peoples’ Principles of Learning. Three principles were highlighted: 

• Learning involves generational roles and responsibilities.
  Learning and teaching is up to everyone and all generations have a responsibility to share the wisdom and knowledge from their experiences with others. 

• Learning requires patience and time.
  Learning is a lifelong process; we should embrace the opportunities to learn that present themselves each day, give ourselves grace when we fall short and show our resilience by trying again.

• Learning is holistic, reflexive, reflective, experiential, and relational (focused on connectedness, on reciprocal relationships, and a sense of place).
  Learning is connected to our whole person (body, mind and spirit) and we are all interdependent. We must take responsibility for our own learning and pursue it actively in our own way by trying new things while working with others and ensuring mutually beneficial relationships. 

We also learned about:

• the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation’s Survivors’ Flag created to honour the lives and communities impacted by the residential school system in Canada
• the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) story and teaching of the Twin Sisters who remind us to live in peace and harmony with our neighbours
• a beautiful musical piece called Eagle Song created by Robert Buckley in collaboration with the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nation played by our senior band 
• a blessing from Dr. Jennifer Grenz, a Nłeʔkepmx (mixed ancestry) Indigenous ecologist and scholar who runs the Indigenous Ecology Lab at UBC from her book Medicine Wheel for the Planet: A Journey towards Personal and Ecological Healing

As a school community, we remembered the wisdom and beauty connected with Indigenous cultures and we learned, prayed and reflected on the truth of the treatment of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. 

We concluded the service by asking all members of the community to consider one seed that they would plant and nurture to contribute on our journey of truth and reconciliation. Here are some suggestions – we invite everyone to plant one of these seeds:

• learn whose traditional territory you are on
• learn about a local Nation
• listen to Indigenous voices (music, podcast, interview, etc…)
• read Indigenous authors
• learn an Indigenous language word appropriately
• build relationships
• attend an Indigenous-led event
• challenge stereotypes
• support Indigenous-led initiatives
• learn about the Calls to Action
• ask better questions
• continue to learn

Thanks to all of the members of our school community who made the service possible!

Grade 8 Retreat

On September 22 and 24, our newest Knights in Grade 8 experienced their first retreat as members of the STMC community. Held at Burnaby Hall, the retreat served as an introduction to life at STMC and was rooted in the themes of belonging, community, and the charism of Blessed Edmund Rice.

The retreat was led by a team of Grade 10, 11, and 12 student leaders who guided the Grade 8 students through a full day of activities, small-group sessions, reflection, and team-building games. These opportunities helped students get to know one another, develop new friendships, and learn from the experiences and example of their senior peers.

Highlights of the retreat included engaging icebreakers, team challenges, and reflective activities focused on what it means to belong to the STMC community. Students were also introduced to advocacy in action, encouraging them to recognize their responsibility to live out their faith through service, compassion, and justice.

As part of this experience, students also had the opportunity to put faith into action by preparing messages and care packages for the Good Shepherd Ministry in Vancouver.

Each retreat day included a Grade-level Mass at Our Lady of Mercy Parish, celebrated by Fr. Nick Meisl. The Mass provided an opportunity for students to gather in prayer, give thanks for their new community, and reflect on how they are called to use their gifts in service to others.

The Grade 8 Retreat was an important first step in helping our newest Knights understand that STMC is more than simply a school—it is a community in which every student is invited to belong, contribute, grow in faith, and continue the mission of Blessed Edmund Rice.

Grade 12 Retreat

This past weekend, our Grade 12 students took part in a three-day retreat at Camp Stillwood. The retreat provided an opportunity for students to bond, strengthen friendships, build positive momentum for the year ahead, and reflect on their journey as they begin their final year at STMC.

A special thank you to Fr. Nick Meisl for beginning the retreat with a beautiful outdoor Mass. Also thank you to STMC staff and retreat leaders who have been organizing this retreat from June and throughout the summer: Isabella Comuzzi, Ariana Wang, Kristina Prtenjaca, Sofia Sales, Bree Lu, Lauren Wong, Ethan Rodriguez Rey, Jaden Piemonte, Nico Antolinez, Julian Diaz, Cristiano De Castro, and Jack James.

Please continue to keep our Grade 12 students in your prayers as they make the most of this important and memorable year.

Grade 8 Orientation

On Monday, September 8, the STMC community welcomed our new Knights with a series of team-building activities and a chance to meet Grade 12 mentors at Grade 8 Orientation.

The day began with the Grade 8 students partnering up with a Grade 12 leader, who guided them to their lockers and helped them familiarize themselves with the layout of STMC. Afterwards, students gathered in the gym for a welcome before being divided into their house groups for the day. Each group rotated through various stations and competitions, including musical chairs, “name that tune”, box stacking, and more. In these competitions, groups competed for house points and worked together to improve their overall house standings.

After lunch, the Grade 8 students got a sneak peek of a staple STMC tradition with a mini House Olympics. Members of each house competed in a relay, jumbo-tic-tac-toe, wig snatch, and finished the day with a round of house chants. London was the winner of the day with 1,350 points, and Canterbury was a close second with 850 points. The orientation served as a chance for Grade 8 students to feel welcomed into the community and to build a good foundation for the rest of their school year. Once a Knight, always a Knight.

– Isabella Comuzzi & Kristina Prtenjaca, Grad 2027

Knighting Ceremony

Last week, we welcomed our newest Grade 8s, students, and faculty at our Knighting Ceremony! This tradition is one of the most exciting events of the year, bringing the whole school together to celebrate the newest members of our family.

The gym was filled with plenty of school spirit as our new students officially became Knights. A highlight of the ceremony was seeing our Grade 12 Student Council members knight the incoming students, passing down a tradition that has been part of our school for generations.

It was an unforgettable way to kick off the year and officially welcome our newest Knights. Welcome to STM, we’re so happy you’re here! Once a Knight, always a Knight!

– Lauren Wong ’27

Pursuit Kitchen

Pursuit Kitchen continues to provide STMC students with a unique opportunity to develop practical cooking skills while serving people in need throughout our community.

Working alongside professional chefs, students learn important kitchen skills, food preparation, teamwork, safety, and leadership. A special part of the program is its focus on food recovery and sustainability, as students learn how rescued and surplus food can be transformed into fresh, nutritious meals rather than going to waste.

Students commit to a series of five Wednesday sessions from 3:00–5:45 p.m. Each week builds on the previous session, with students developing new culinary skills while taking part in kitchen challenges and friendly competitions. Most importantly, the meals they prepare are packaged and provided to local organizations that support individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.

Previous Pursuit Kitchen groups have prepared meals for organizations serving people in need throughout the Lower Mainland, including the Neighborhood Church, Salvation Army, Potter’s Place in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. Students have also had opportunities to hear directly from those involved in outreach and learn more about the people and communities their meals support.

For our students, Pursuit Kitchen is about much more than learning how to cook. It is an opportunity to build confidence, work as a team, reduce food waste, and put our call to service and justice into action. Students see firsthand how something as simple as preparing a meal can become an act of compassion and care for another person.

Our October Pursuit Kitchen group is currently full, but students interested in taking part in a future session are encouraged to speak with Mr. Mattiazzo to learn about upcoming opportunities.

Good Shepherd Ministry – Service Opportunity

Grade 11 and 12 students, along with interested parents, are invited to take part in service opportunities with Good Shepherd Ministry in Vancouver.

Volunteers serve on Monday evenings, helping support individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty in the Downtown Eastside. This is a meaningful opportunity for students to put their faith into action through service, compassion, and personal encounter. Students who sign up meet at STMC at 6PM on their scheduled Monday and walk the DTES from 7pm to 8pm.

More information, including upcoming dates and sign-up details, can be found on the Campus Ministry Google Classroom and the Campus Ministry bulletin board.

Students or parents who would like to learn more can also speak directly with Mr. Mattiazzo.

Music

First Note Night

The Grade 8 Band and Elementary Band participated in First Note Knight! Guest musicians from the Vancouver Symphony helped students learn the basics to get started on their new instruments.

10 Ways to Survive the Holiday

10 Ways to Survive the Holiday will debut on Nov 18 and run till Nov. 20 at the STMC Theatre! Tickets will be on sale in mid October! Seating is minimal so please get your tickets as soon as they are avaliable.

Homecoming 2026

A Celebration of Community, Tradition, and Knight Pride

It all started on Friday with our traditional pep rally ahead of Homecoming 2026, presented by AllWest Electric. For decades, the STMC/Holy Cross Varsity Football rivalry has been one of the highlights of the school year – at one time known as the Pepsi Bowl. This year, Varsity Girls Volleyball was also part of the Homecoming schedule, taking on Windermere earlier in the day.

But first, back to Friday, the day before Homecoming. Students packed the bleachers for the pep rally, loud and proud as they cheered on our Varsity Football and Volleyball teams. The energy in the gym helped send our athletes into the weekend excited and ready for their opening games.

Saturday arrived with beautiful sunshine, and the crowds began by filling the bleachers to watch our Varsity Girls Volleyball team face its first test of the season. Currently ranked #3 in the 2A provincial rankings, the Knights defeated Windermere in an exciting and action-packed game.

From there, the crowd made its way outside to Power Field, where our Alumni Association-sponsored Alumni Zone was already helping lead the celebration. Soon, the entire school grounds were buzzing as the community gathered for the decades-old football rivalry.

Fans enjoyed food trucks, ice cream, and a sausage lunch generously sponsored by Cioffi’s, while the STMC Pep Band kept the atmosphere energized with music throughout the afternoon.

At halftime, we were especially proud to recognize members of the Classes of 1976, 1986, 1996 and 2006, celebrating their 50, 40, 30, and 20 year reunions. Welcoming these alumni back and recognizing them in front of our community was one of the special moments of the day.

Our Kids Zone, sponsored by ZLC Employee Benefits & Dan Eisner, provided plenty of activities for our youngest Knights, allowing families to enjoy the afternoon and parents to take in the action on Power Field.

On the field, our Varsity Football team capped off the celebration with an impressive 28–6 victory over Holy Cross. When the final whistle sounded, the enthusiastic crowd rushed the field to celebrate alongside the team. More than anything, Homecoming was a reminder of what makes the STMC community so special.

An event of this size only happens because so many people come together. Our Parents Association, Alumni Association, staff, sponsors and more than 60 parent volunteers all played an important role in making the day such a tremendous success.

Homecoming is about much more than volleyball and football. It is about bringing together students, families, alumni, staff and friends of STMC to celebrate our traditions, reconnect with one another and share in the pride of being part of the Knights community. We are called to Learn. Lead. and Serve.

Thank you to everyone who helped make Homecoming 2026 such a memorable day.

Swim Team

Dive in! Swim Team practice starts this Tuesday at Edmonds Pool, 3–4 pm. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced swimmer, all levels are welcome.

Details:

When: Tuesdays, Sept 15–Oct 27
Where: Edmonds Pool
Time: 3–4 pm
How to join: See Ms. Schille for a permission form and sign up for Google Classroom
All students welcome. Sign up today!

Oktoberfest

The 2027 Grad Committee is excited to announce our Oktoberfest Fundraiser on Saturday, October 24th from 7-11pm, in support of the Class of 2027. This fun-filled evening will feature great food, drinks, live band entertainment by Session Five, dancing, games, and a silent auction. This event is open to all STMC families and friends, and we would love to see you there!

Online ticket sales available now!

Tickets are $35 each and include food, a drink, and live band entertainment. This would make a great date night or a fun night out with a group of friends! Tickets can be purchased online until Oct 16th: https://trellis.org/stmcoctoberfest26 

Other Ways to Support

• Silent Auction Donations: We are gratefully accepting donations of gifts or services or cash.If you would like to donate, please complete and submit the online Donations Form here: https://forms.gle/rZfv5kpLjWWA5SFo6If needed, a Donation letter template can be downloaded here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1mFliTforKoeXHHThjPph6fIuAx67Iq99viOi0DxJQy0/edit?usp=sharing

We kindly ask that donations be dropped off at the school office no later than October 9, 2026; please label with your name and “Grad Fundraiser”.

• Bottle Donations for the Toonie Toss: We welcome donations of sparkling, red or white wine and spirits for our toonie toss game. Bottles may be dropped off at the school office by Oct 9, 2026; please label with your name and “Grad Fundraiser”.

The Grad Committee and the Class of 2027 sincerely thank you for your generosity and support!

Growing the Board

As part of ongoing succession planning, the Foundation and Ltd. Boards of St. Thomas More Collegiate are actively looking for inspired and talented individuals interested in serving on either of these boards or one of our standing board committees. We are looking for individuals who believe in our mission and are willing to be active participants in helping STMC achieve greater success. Serving on either board fulfills your full Parent Participation Program commitment.

It should be noted that the work of each of our respective boards is serious business. Operating a private educational institution in today’s economic and political climate is no easy task. These boards are ultimately responsible for ensuring STMC’s ongoing success and long-term sustainability. For that reason, it is extremely important that our collective members possess the variety of skill sets and expertise required to ensure effective governance. It is also important that our makeup reflect the diversity of the community that we represent. It takes all kinds of skill sets, personalities, backgrounds, and experiences to make for an effective and highly functioning board.

If you are ready to share your time and talents to make STMC a better place, we would like to hear from you. For more information on roles and responsibilities, please take a look at the documents below:

• STMC Ltd. Board Roles & Responsibilities
• STMC Foundation Board Director Roles & Responsibilities
• STMC Ltd. Board Committees – Terms of Reference

Link: Application Form

Download and fill out the above application and send it to board@stmc.bc.c​a to help us better understand what you could bring to the STMC Boards and your potential fit. All applications will be reviewed and potential candidates will be contacted for further discussion, and to answer any questions that you may have. We are limited to how many new members we take on at one time. However, as other needs arise from time to time, it is good to have additional qualified candidates available. The STMC Ltd. Board, in particular, has found it especially effective to have interested candidates gain experience on a standing board committee prior to joining the Board as a Director.

Thank you in advance for your consideration.

Mr. Thomas Spraggs
STMC Ltd. Board Chair

Mr. Sean Tessarolo
STMC Ltd. – Governance Committee Chair

Mr. Denzel Laguerta
STMC Foundation Board Chair

Mr. Joe Adams
Principal