Ginther to Lead Catholic Identity and Mission

A familiar face is returning to St. Michael Catholic School (StMCS): Melissa Ginther will rejoin the staff beginning January 10 as Director of Catholic Identity and Mission.

“Melissa will be a great asset to our school, providing daily attention to the faith life of our students and staff,” Principal Heidi Gallus said. “Our motto is ‘Living for Christ. Learning for Life.’ but although we have several specialists for specific learning areas, we have no one dedicated to forming faithful Catholic disciples.”

In this new role, Ginther will use her experience as a teacher, administrator, and evangelist to provide pastoral support and formation opportunities for students and staff, as well as a consistent Catholic perspective on StMCS’s education mission. According to Gallus, her specific duties will include:

• Actively enhancing the liturgical and prayer life of the school as the keeper of Catholic identity
• Spiritual support and ongoing formation for staff, including retreats, prayer support, and individual guidance
• Working with teachers and staff to ensure that all curricula are infused with Catholic values and that StMCS provides an authentically Catholic education
• Support and enhancement of classroom formation, sacrament preparation, and student retreat opportunities
• Connection with parish ministries and formation opportunities, including for school families interested in becoming full members of the Catholic Church

“It is a great joy to welcome Melissa and her many gifts back into our school,” said Father Brian Park. “With this hire, we are rededicating ourselves to providing a solidly Catholic education in our community for many years to come!”

“Christ’s call to all disciples is to bear His light to the world,” Ginther said. “I am excited to return to StMCS and hope that I can help to illuminate the minds and hearts of our entire community.”