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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Romanos the Melodist (October 1)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Romanos the Melodist (October 1)
September 28, 2026 - October 2, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: Venerable Romanus (Romanos) the Melodist, called the "Sweet Singer."
When: October 1st (Commemorated at the turn of the new month).
His Story: Saint Romanos flourished in the late fifth and early sixth centuries during the reign of Emperor Anastasius. Born in Emesa, Syria, he was of Hebrew heritage and carried the rich, poetic idioms of Semitic language into his later writings. After being baptized an Orthodox Christian, he served as a deacon in Beirut. Saint Romanos became the brilliant inventor and first composer of the kontakion—a magnificent, multi-stanza form of sung poetic sermon. His most famous masterpiece, the Nativity Kontakion ("The Virgin cometh today..."), was miraculously gifted to him by the Theotokos herself when she appeared to him in a vision and commanded him to swallow a scroll of paper. Drawing deep inspiration from the exquisite theology of Saint Ephraim of Syria, Romanos went on to write thousands of hymns, beautifully wedding musical excellence to orthodox dogma.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
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Singing for God: Saint Romanos used his voice and beautiful poetry to praise God. What is your favorite hymn or song that we sing at church or during school prayer? How does singing help our hearts feel closer to Jesus?
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Practicing Your Talents: Saint Romanos wasn't always considered the best singer at first, but he prayed deeply, and God gave him a beautiful gift. When something at school or in music class feels difficult, how can asking God for help change our attitude?
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A Special Gift: The Mother of God gave Romanos a special scroll that filled his heart with beautiful music. If you could give a beautiful song or a kind word as a gift to someone in your classroom this week, what would it be?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
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Music as Theology: Saint Romanos didn't just write catchy songs; his hymns were actual theological lessons (sermons) set to meter and melody. Why is music such a powerful tool for teaching deep truths about God? How does singing a truth help it sink deeper into our souls than just reading it out of a textbook?
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The Consecration of Heritage: Romanos was born of Hebrew stock and seamlessly integrated his cultural Semitic language patterns into Greek Christian worship. How does God redeem and use our unique personal backgrounds, family heritages, and natural traits to serve His Church, rather than erasing them?
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Standing in the Shadows of Giants: History notes that Romanos was profoundly inspired by the earlier writings of Saint Ephraim of Syria. In our classical journey, why is it vital that we look backward and build upon the masterworks of the great thinkers, saints, and poets who came before us, rather than trying to invent everything from scratch?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
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For the Family Bookshelf: Flip to page 96 in "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach for a vibrant, beautifully illustrated look at his life and his miraculous vision of the scroll.
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Musical Connection: Listen together to a traditional chanting of the Nativity Kontakion ("The Virgin cometh today...") and look at how the words weave the story of the stable, the star, and the Magi together.
-
Online Reading: For a complete look at his life, his liturgical legacy, and how his poetic structures shaped Orthodox hymnography forever, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
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📌 Teachers will be celebrating Saint Romanos this week by discussing the relationship between beauty, poetry, and truth in our morning studies. Ask your child if they can explain what a "Kontakion" is!
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Romanos the Melodist (October 1)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Romanos the Melodist (October 1)
September 28, 2026 - October 2, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: Venerable Romanus (Romanos) the Melodist, called the "Sweet Singer."
When: October 1st (Commemorated at the turn of the new month).
His Story: Saint Romanos flourished in the late fifth and early sixth centuries during the reign of Emperor Anastasius. Born in Emesa, Syria, he was of Hebrew heritage and carried the rich, poetic idioms of Semitic language into his later writings. After being baptized an Orthodox Christian, he served as a deacon in Beirut. Saint Romanos became the brilliant inventor and first composer of the kontakion—a magnificent, multi-stanza form of sung poetic sermon. His most famous masterpiece, the Nativity Kontakion ("The Virgin cometh today..."), was miraculously gifted to him by the Theotokos herself when she appeared to him in a vision and commanded him to swallow a scroll of paper. Drawing deep inspiration from the exquisite theology of Saint Ephraim of Syria, Romanos went on to write thousands of hymns, beautifully wedding musical excellence to orthodox dogma.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
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Singing for God: Saint Romanos used his voice and beautiful poetry to praise God. What is your favorite hymn or song that we sing at church or during school prayer? How does singing help our hearts feel closer to Jesus?
-
Practicing Your Talents: Saint Romanos wasn't always considered the best singer at first, but he prayed deeply, and God gave him a beautiful gift. When something at school or in music class feels difficult, how can asking God for help change our attitude?
-
A Special Gift: The Mother of God gave Romanos a special scroll that filled his heart with beautiful music. If you could give a beautiful song or a kind word as a gift to someone in your classroom this week, what would it be?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
Music as Theology: Saint Romanos didn't just write catchy songs; his hymns were actual theological lessons (sermons) set to meter and melody. Why is music such a powerful tool for teaching deep truths about God? How does singing a truth help it sink deeper into our souls than just reading it out of a textbook?
-
The Consecration of Heritage: Romanos was born of Hebrew stock and seamlessly integrated his cultural Semitic language patterns into Greek Christian worship. How does God redeem and use our unique personal backgrounds, family heritages, and natural traits to serve His Church, rather than erasing them?
-
Standing in the Shadows of Giants: History notes that Romanos was profoundly inspired by the earlier writings of Saint Ephraim of Syria. In our classical journey, why is it vital that we look backward and build upon the masterworks of the great thinkers, saints, and poets who came before us, rather than trying to invent everything from scratch?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Flip to page 96 in "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach for a vibrant, beautifully illustrated look at his life and his miraculous vision of the scroll.
-
Musical Connection: Listen together to a traditional chanting of the Nativity Kontakion ("The Virgin cometh today...") and look at how the words weave the story of the stable, the star, and the Magi together.
-
Online Reading: For a complete look at his life, his liturgical legacy, and how his poetic structures shaped Orthodox hymnography forever, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
-------
📌 Teachers will be celebrating Saint Romanos this week by discussing the relationship between beauty, poetry, and truth in our morning studies. Ask your child if they can explain what a "Kontakion" is!
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Innocent of Alaska (October 6)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Innocent of Alaska (October 6)
October 5, 2026 - October 9, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: Saint Innocent, Metropolitan of Moscow, Equal-to-the-Apostles and Enlightener of North America.
When: October 6th.
His Story: Born in a tiny Siberian village in 1797, Saint Innocent was orphaned at a young age, raised by his uncle, and entered seminary when he was just ten years old. He married, became a parish priest, and felt a deep stirring in his heart when he heard about the Alaskan missions of Saint Herman. Answering the call to share the Gospel, he packed up his wife, his infant son, his mother, and his brother for a grueling, 14-month journey across 3,480 miles of wilderness to reach the remote island of Unalaska. Upon arrival, he learned the native Unangan language, invented an alphabet for them, translated the Gospel of Matthew, and taught the local people how to build structures, including a church he constructed with his own hands. He traveled treacherous, icy waters in a skin-covered kayak to visit his flock. After his wife reposed, he was tonsured a monk and consecrated as the first bishop of Alaska. He was eventually chosen as the Metropolitan of Moscow—the highest position in the Russian Church—where he used his authority to fund global missions. He peacefully reposed in 1879 just moments before the midnight Paschal Liturgy.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
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A Great Adventure: Saint Innocent traveled for 14 months on horses, boats, and on foot just to tell people about Jesus. What is the longest trip you have ever taken? Imagine traveling for over a year to help someone—what kind of heart does that take?
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Building and Creating: Saint Innocent didn't just preach; he built a church with his own hands and taught the Alaskan people how to build sturdy houses. How can we use our hands to build up our home, our classroom, or our parish community this week?
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Kayaking Through Storms: Saint Innocent had to paddle through freezing, scary ocean waves in a tiny kayak to visit lonely parishes. Who is someone in your life who might be feeling lonely or left out, and how can you "travel" over to them at recess to be a friend?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
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Incarnational Ministry: Instead of forcing the native Alaskans to learn Russian, Saint Innocent spent years learning their language, creating a written alphabet for them, and translating the scriptures into their native tongue. Why is it important to meet people where they are rather than demanding they change their culture to match ours? How does this reflect Christ’s own Incarnation?
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The Scope of Stewardship: Saint Innocent was a multi-talented polymath: he was a linguist, a master carpenter, an educator, a geographer, and a priest. How does cultivating our minds across all subjects—science, history, language, and manual arts—make us better equipped to serve God's kingdom?
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Providential Redirection: When Saint Innocent lost his beloved wife, his life took a completely unexpected turn, leading him to monasticism, the episcopacy, and ultimately becoming the leader of the entire Russian Church. How can we maintain trust in God when our personal life plans are completely shattered by grief or unexpected change?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Flip to page 50 in "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach to see a beautiful illustrated spread detailing his incredible North American missionary journeys.
-
Geography & History Connection: Pull out a world map and trace the massive, 3,480-mile path from Siberia across the Bering Sea down to the Aleutian Islands of Alaska to visualize the scale of his family's trek.
-
Online Reading: For a complete history of his missionary journals, his interactions with the native peoples, and his elevation to the see of Moscow, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
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📌 Teachers will be highlighting Saint Innocent this week as our very own local historical hero—bringing the Orthodox faith right to our North American soil. Ask your student how Saint Innocent used a kayak to spread the Gospel!
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🍗 Hot Lunch Monday Program
🍗 Hot Lunch Monday Program
October 5, 2026 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm
What: Our weekly catering program provides a special, easy hot lunch option for all students who are pre-registered for the semester.
Who: All CSA students who have signed up for the Hot Lunch Monday program and the Parent Volunteer.
When: Every Monday throughout the academic year.
Why: At Christ the Savior Academy, we strive to make the rhythms of the school week both joyful for our students and practical for our busy families. Our Hot Lunch Monday program provides a fun community meal while seamlessly honoring the liturgical seasons of the Church. By serving favorite standard options during regular weeks and shifting to simple, fasting-compliant alternatives during the designated penitential seasons, we help our students learn that fasting can be communal, consistent, and lived out naturally together in the lunchroom.
What is Served & How to Pack:
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🍗 Regular Weeks: Students will enjoy delicious Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets.
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🍏 Nutritious Sides: Because the school provides the main entree, parents are asked to pack healthy, nutritious sides (fruits, vegetables, snacks) to round out their student's lunchbox each Monday.
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📌 Current Families: Please note that this program requires pre-registration at the start of each semester so our coordinators can place accurate bulk orders. If you ever need to verify your child's registration status, check the current fasting schedule, or report an allergy, please email the office directly at office@csawichita.org . To be a parent volunteer for a Hot Lunch Monday, please sign up via ClassDojo for any week that works for you.
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Innocent of Alaska (October 6)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Innocent of Alaska (October 6)
October 5, 2026 - October 9, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: Saint Innocent, Metropolitan of Moscow, Equal-to-the-Apostles and Enlightener of North America.
When: October 6th.
His Story: Born in a tiny Siberian village in 1797, Saint Innocent was orphaned at a young age, raised by his uncle, and entered seminary when he was just ten years old. He married, became a parish priest, and felt a deep stirring in his heart when he heard about the Alaskan missions of Saint Herman. Answering the call to share the Gospel, he packed up his wife, his infant son, his mother, and his brother for a grueling, 14-month journey across 3,480 miles of wilderness to reach the remote island of Unalaska. Upon arrival, he learned the native Unangan language, invented an alphabet for them, translated the Gospel of Matthew, and taught the local people how to build structures, including a church he constructed with his own hands. He traveled treacherous, icy waters in a skin-covered kayak to visit his flock. After his wife reposed, he was tonsured a monk and consecrated as the first bishop of Alaska. He was eventually chosen as the Metropolitan of Moscow—the highest position in the Russian Church—where he used his authority to fund global missions. He peacefully reposed in 1879 just moments before the midnight Paschal Liturgy.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
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A Great Adventure: Saint Innocent traveled for 14 months on horses, boats, and on foot just to tell people about Jesus. What is the longest trip you have ever taken? Imagine traveling for over a year to help someone—what kind of heart does that take?
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Building and Creating: Saint Innocent didn't just preach; he built a church with his own hands and taught the Alaskan people how to build sturdy houses. How can we use our hands to build up our home, our classroom, or our parish community this week?
-
Kayaking Through Storms: Saint Innocent had to paddle through freezing, scary ocean waves in a tiny kayak to visit lonely parishes. Who is someone in your life who might be feeling lonely or left out, and how can you "travel" over to them at recess to be a friend?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
Incarnational Ministry: Instead of forcing the native Alaskans to learn Russian, Saint Innocent spent years learning their language, creating a written alphabet for them, and translating the scriptures into their native tongue. Why is it important to meet people where they are rather than demanding they change their culture to match ours? How does this reflect Christ’s own Incarnation?
-
The Scope of Stewardship: Saint Innocent was a multi-talented polymath: he was a linguist, a master carpenter, an educator, a geographer, and a priest. How does cultivating our minds across all subjects—science, history, language, and manual arts—make us better equipped to serve God's kingdom?
-
Providential Redirection: When Saint Innocent lost his beloved wife, his life took a completely unexpected turn, leading him to monasticism, the episcopacy, and ultimately becoming the leader of the entire Russian Church. How can we maintain trust in God when our personal life plans are completely shattered by grief or unexpected change?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Flip to page 50 in "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach to see a beautiful illustrated spread detailing his incredible North American missionary journeys.
-
Geography & History Connection: Pull out a world map and trace the massive, 3,480-mile path from Siberia across the Bering Sea down to the Aleutian Islands of Alaska to visualize the scale of his family's trek.
-
Online Reading: For a complete history of his missionary journals, his interactions with the native peoples, and his elevation to the see of Moscow, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
-------
📌 Teachers will be highlighting Saint Innocent this week as our very own local historical hero—bringing the Orthodox faith right to our North American soil. Ask your student how Saint Innocent used a kayak to spread the Gospel!
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Innocent of Alaska (October 6)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Innocent of Alaska (October 6)
October 5, 2026 - October 9, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: Saint Innocent, Metropolitan of Moscow, Equal-to-the-Apostles and Enlightener of North America.
When: October 6th.
His Story: Born in a tiny Siberian village in 1797, Saint Innocent was orphaned at a young age, raised by his uncle, and entered seminary when he was just ten years old. He married, became a parish priest, and felt a deep stirring in his heart when he heard about the Alaskan missions of Saint Herman. Answering the call to share the Gospel, he packed up his wife, his infant son, his mother, and his brother for a grueling, 14-month journey across 3,480 miles of wilderness to reach the remote island of Unalaska. Upon arrival, he learned the native Unangan language, invented an alphabet for them, translated the Gospel of Matthew, and taught the local people how to build structures, including a church he constructed with his own hands. He traveled treacherous, icy waters in a skin-covered kayak to visit his flock. After his wife reposed, he was tonsured a monk and consecrated as the first bishop of Alaska. He was eventually chosen as the Metropolitan of Moscow—the highest position in the Russian Church—where he used his authority to fund global missions. He peacefully reposed in 1879 just moments before the midnight Paschal Liturgy.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
A Great Adventure: Saint Innocent traveled for 14 months on horses, boats, and on foot just to tell people about Jesus. What is the longest trip you have ever taken? Imagine traveling for over a year to help someone—what kind of heart does that take?
-
Building and Creating: Saint Innocent didn't just preach; he built a church with his own hands and taught the Alaskan people how to build sturdy houses. How can we use our hands to build up our home, our classroom, or our parish community this week?
-
Kayaking Through Storms: Saint Innocent had to paddle through freezing, scary ocean waves in a tiny kayak to visit lonely parishes. Who is someone in your life who might be feeling lonely or left out, and how can you "travel" over to them at recess to be a friend?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
Incarnational Ministry: Instead of forcing the native Alaskans to learn Russian, Saint Innocent spent years learning their language, creating a written alphabet for them, and translating the scriptures into their native tongue. Why is it important to meet people where they are rather than demanding they change their culture to match ours? How does this reflect Christ’s own Incarnation?
-
The Scope of Stewardship: Saint Innocent was a multi-talented polymath: he was a linguist, a master carpenter, an educator, a geographer, and a priest. How does cultivating our minds across all subjects—science, history, language, and manual arts—make us better equipped to serve God's kingdom?
-
Providential Redirection: When Saint Innocent lost his beloved wife, his life took a completely unexpected turn, leading him to monasticism, the episcopacy, and ultimately becoming the leader of the entire Russian Church. How can we maintain trust in God when our personal life plans are completely shattered by grief or unexpected change?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Flip to page 50 in "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach to see a beautiful illustrated spread detailing his incredible North American missionary journeys.
-
Geography & History Connection: Pull out a world map and trace the massive, 3,480-mile path from Siberia across the Bering Sea down to the Aleutian Islands of Alaska to visualize the scale of his family's trek.
-
Online Reading: For a complete history of his missionary journals, his interactions with the native peoples, and his elevation to the see of Moscow, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
-------
📌 Teachers will be highlighting Saint Innocent this week as our very own local historical hero—bringing the Orthodox faith right to our North American soil. Ask your student how Saint Innocent used a kayak to spread the Gospel!
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👔 Calendar Reminder: Weekly Dress Uniform Day
👔 Calendar Reminder: Weekly Dress Uniform Day
October 7, 2026
What: A weekly reminder for all students to arrive on campus in their complete, formal Dress Uniform.
When: Every Wednesday (unless otherwise noted for special events).
Why: At Christ the Savior Academy, we believe that our outward appearance can beautifully reflect and support our inward disposition. We intentionally schedule our school liturgies, picture days, and all-school recitation assemblies on Wednesdays whenever possible. Wearing our formal Dress Uniforms on these days provides our students with a tangible, visual reminder that we are entering into something sacred and elevated. Just as we prepare our hearts for prayer, dressing with care helps us cultivate a corporate culture of reverence, attentiveness, and excellence as we stand before God and one another.
How to Prepare:
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📐 Check the Guide: Please ensure your child has all necessary components of the formal dress uniform clean and ready to go on Tuesday evening (including the correct sweaters, ties, and dress shoes).
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🗓️ Calendar Flexibility: While we always strive to keep these events on Wednesdays, the liturgical calendar occasionally requires adjustments. We will always notify you in advance via ClassDojo if a different day requires Dress Uniforms!
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📌 Current Families: For a quick refresher on the specific dress uniform requirements for each grade level, please refer to the CSA Uniform Guidelines on our Parent Resources page of the CSA website.
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Innocent of Alaska (October 6)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Innocent of Alaska (October 6)
October 5, 2026 - October 9, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: Saint Innocent, Metropolitan of Moscow, Equal-to-the-Apostles and Enlightener of North America.
When: October 6th.
His Story: Born in a tiny Siberian village in 1797, Saint Innocent was orphaned at a young age, raised by his uncle, and entered seminary when he was just ten years old. He married, became a parish priest, and felt a deep stirring in his heart when he heard about the Alaskan missions of Saint Herman. Answering the call to share the Gospel, he packed up his wife, his infant son, his mother, and his brother for a grueling, 14-month journey across 3,480 miles of wilderness to reach the remote island of Unalaska. Upon arrival, he learned the native Unangan language, invented an alphabet for them, translated the Gospel of Matthew, and taught the local people how to build structures, including a church he constructed with his own hands. He traveled treacherous, icy waters in a skin-covered kayak to visit his flock. After his wife reposed, he was tonsured a monk and consecrated as the first bishop of Alaska. He was eventually chosen as the Metropolitan of Moscow—the highest position in the Russian Church—where he used his authority to fund global missions. He peacefully reposed in 1879 just moments before the midnight Paschal Liturgy.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
A Great Adventure: Saint Innocent traveled for 14 months on horses, boats, and on foot just to tell people about Jesus. What is the longest trip you have ever taken? Imagine traveling for over a year to help someone—what kind of heart does that take?
-
Building and Creating: Saint Innocent didn't just preach; he built a church with his own hands and taught the Alaskan people how to build sturdy houses. How can we use our hands to build up our home, our classroom, or our parish community this week?
-
Kayaking Through Storms: Saint Innocent had to paddle through freezing, scary ocean waves in a tiny kayak to visit lonely parishes. Who is someone in your life who might be feeling lonely or left out, and how can you "travel" over to them at recess to be a friend?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
Incarnational Ministry: Instead of forcing the native Alaskans to learn Russian, Saint Innocent spent years learning their language, creating a written alphabet for them, and translating the scriptures into their native tongue. Why is it important to meet people where they are rather than demanding they change their culture to match ours? How does this reflect Christ’s own Incarnation?
-
The Scope of Stewardship: Saint Innocent was a multi-talented polymath: he was a linguist, a master carpenter, an educator, a geographer, and a priest. How does cultivating our minds across all subjects—science, history, language, and manual arts—make us better equipped to serve God's kingdom?
-
Providential Redirection: When Saint Innocent lost his beloved wife, his life took a completely unexpected turn, leading him to monasticism, the episcopacy, and ultimately becoming the leader of the entire Russian Church. How can we maintain trust in God when our personal life plans are completely shattered by grief or unexpected change?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Flip to page 50 in "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach to see a beautiful illustrated spread detailing his incredible North American missionary journeys.
-
Geography & History Connection: Pull out a world map and trace the massive, 3,480-mile path from Siberia across the Bering Sea down to the Aleutian Islands of Alaska to visualize the scale of his family's trek.
-
Online Reading: For a complete history of his missionary journals, his interactions with the native peoples, and his elevation to the see of Moscow, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
-------
📌 Teachers will be highlighting Saint Innocent this week as our very own local historical hero—bringing the Orthodox faith right to our North American soil. Ask your student how Saint Innocent used a kayak to spread the Gospel!
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🎃 Pumpkin Patch Field Trip
🎃 Pumpkin Patch Field Trip
October 8, 2026
What: A joyful, day-long experiential learning trip to a beloved local farm! This traditional autumn outing is filled with outdoor discovery, seasonal activities, and shared family fellowship.
Who: All CSA students and faculty, with their families.
When: Thursday, October 8th (All Day).
Where: The Pumpkin Patch.
Why: In the classical tradition, we nurture wonder by connecting children with the beauty of creation. This field trip allows our students to step away from their desks, explore the rhythms of agriculture firsthand, and experience the simple joy of community outside the classroom.
How to Prepare (Tips for a Wonderful Day):
- 👗 Dress Code: Play clothes are welcome today—uniforms are NOT required! Please check the weather and dress your child in comfortable clothing suitable for an outdoor farm environment that can get a little dirty.
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🧺 Lunch Details: We highly recommend packing a disposable brown-bag lunch and a disposable water bottle so your child doesn't have to keep track of reusable containers. Alternatively, the farm's lunch pavilion does sell hot food and cold drinks, though lines can be long.
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🤝 Community Time: With so many families joining us, this is a wonderful, relaxed opportunity for parents/guardians, grandparents/godparents, and teachers to socialize and strengthen our community bonds.
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🛡️ Safety Check-in & Schedules: To ensure student safety, our exact arrival schedule, designated teacher check-in stations, and farm location details are kept private. Current families, please check ClassDojo or this week's "5 Things You Need to Know" to RSVP and for your complete itinerary for our day at the patch!
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Innocent of Alaska (October 6)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Innocent of Alaska (October 6)
October 5, 2026 - October 9, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: Saint Innocent, Metropolitan of Moscow, Equal-to-the-Apostles and Enlightener of North America.
When: October 6th.
His Story: Born in a tiny Siberian village in 1797, Saint Innocent was orphaned at a young age, raised by his uncle, and entered seminary when he was just ten years old. He married, became a parish priest, and felt a deep stirring in his heart when he heard about the Alaskan missions of Saint Herman. Answering the call to share the Gospel, he packed up his wife, his infant son, his mother, and his brother for a grueling, 14-month journey across 3,480 miles of wilderness to reach the remote island of Unalaska. Upon arrival, he learned the native Unangan language, invented an alphabet for them, translated the Gospel of Matthew, and taught the local people how to build structures, including a church he constructed with his own hands. He traveled treacherous, icy waters in a skin-covered kayak to visit his flock. After his wife reposed, he was tonsured a monk and consecrated as the first bishop of Alaska. He was eventually chosen as the Metropolitan of Moscow—the highest position in the Russian Church—where he used his authority to fund global missions. He peacefully reposed in 1879 just moments before the midnight Paschal Liturgy.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
A Great Adventure: Saint Innocent traveled for 14 months on horses, boats, and on foot just to tell people about Jesus. What is the longest trip you have ever taken? Imagine traveling for over a year to help someone—what kind of heart does that take?
-
Building and Creating: Saint Innocent didn't just preach; he built a church with his own hands and taught the Alaskan people how to build sturdy houses. How can we use our hands to build up our home, our classroom, or our parish community this week?
-
Kayaking Through Storms: Saint Innocent had to paddle through freezing, scary ocean waves in a tiny kayak to visit lonely parishes. Who is someone in your life who might be feeling lonely or left out, and how can you "travel" over to them at recess to be a friend?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
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Incarnational Ministry: Instead of forcing the native Alaskans to learn Russian, Saint Innocent spent years learning their language, creating a written alphabet for them, and translating the scriptures into their native tongue. Why is it important to meet people where they are rather than demanding they change their culture to match ours? How does this reflect Christ’s own Incarnation?
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The Scope of Stewardship: Saint Innocent was a multi-talented polymath: he was a linguist, a master carpenter, an educator, a geographer, and a priest. How does cultivating our minds across all subjects—science, history, language, and manual arts—make us better equipped to serve God's kingdom?
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Providential Redirection: When Saint Innocent lost his beloved wife, his life took a completely unexpected turn, leading him to monasticism, the episcopacy, and ultimately becoming the leader of the entire Russian Church. How can we maintain trust in God when our personal life plans are completely shattered by grief or unexpected change?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Flip to page 50 in "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach to see a beautiful illustrated spread detailing his incredible North American missionary journeys.
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Geography & History Connection: Pull out a world map and trace the massive, 3,480-mile path from Siberia across the Bering Sea down to the Aleutian Islands of Alaska to visualize the scale of his family's trek.
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Online Reading: For a complete history of his missionary journals, his interactions with the native peoples, and his elevation to the see of Moscow, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
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📌 Teachers will be highlighting Saint Innocent this week as our very own local historical hero—bringing the Orthodox faith right to our North American soil. Ask your student how Saint Innocent used a kayak to spread the Gospel!
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🍎 Teacher Workday
🍎 Teacher Workday
October 9, 2026 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
🗓️ No School: Teacher Workday
What: School is closed for students while our faculty enjoys an off-campus workday.
When: Friday, October 9th.
Why: To give our teachers time for curriculum mapping, classical pedagogy training, and collaborative planning so they can continue to serve your children with excellence.
Office Availability & How to Reach Us: Because our administrative team is actively participating in these trainings and working alongside teachers in the classrooms, office hours today will be fluid.
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📌 Note: Classes will resume on Wednesday, October 14th, but we'll see you parents at your Parent-Teacher Conference on Tuesday, October 13th. Enjoy the long weekend with your families!
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10
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✨ The 91st Annual St. George Cathedral Big Dinner
✨ The 91st Annual St. George Cathedral Big Dinner
October 10, 2026 4:00 pm - October 11, 2026 7:00 pm
What: A beloved, historic Wichita tradition! Join us as our host parish opens its doors to the wider community for a weekend of incredible homemade Lebanese food, guided tours of our beautiful cathedral, and artisan-baked goods in the Country Kitchen.
Who: The entire Wichita community, CSA families, parishioners, neighbors, and friends.
When:
Where: The St. George Cathedral Campus & Fellowship Hall. (Note to current families: This historic festival is the reason we vacate the education wing beginning with our Pumpkin Patch trip to allow the parish to prepare the facilities!)
Why: As a classical Orthodox school, we are deeply rooted in the life of the Church and the joy of hospitality (philoxenia). Supporting our host parish's largest event of the year allows our school to show our profound gratitude for the space we share, while giving our students a beautiful opportunity to practice Christian stewardship and community service.
How to Support & Participate: Come hungry and bring your friends and family! Be sure to stop by the Country Kitchen, where our very own CSA students will be volunteering at the sundae stand, busy assembling and serving delicious, traditional Baklawa Sundaes!
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🍨 Current Families: We are so proud of our students' hard work in preparing for this event. For specific student volunteer shift schedules, dress requirements for the stand, and parent coordinator contacts, please check your ClassDojo stories.
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11
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✨ The 91st Annual St. George Cathedral Big Dinner
✨ The 91st Annual St. George Cathedral Big Dinner
October 10, 2026 4:00 pm - October 11, 2026 7:00 pm
What: A beloved, historic Wichita tradition! Join us as our host parish opens its doors to the wider community for a weekend of incredible homemade Lebanese food, guided tours of our beautiful cathedral, and artisan-baked goods in the Country Kitchen.
Who: The entire Wichita community, CSA families, parishioners, neighbors, and friends.
When:
Where: The St. George Cathedral Campus & Fellowship Hall. (Note to current families: This historic festival is the reason we vacate the education wing beginning with our Pumpkin Patch trip to allow the parish to prepare the facilities!)
Why: As a classical Orthodox school, we are deeply rooted in the life of the Church and the joy of hospitality (philoxenia). Supporting our host parish's largest event of the year allows our school to show our profound gratitude for the space we share, while giving our students a beautiful opportunity to practice Christian stewardship and community service.
How to Support & Participate: Come hungry and bring your friends and family! Be sure to stop by the Country Kitchen, where our very own CSA students will be volunteering at the sundae stand, busy assembling and serving delicious, traditional Baklawa Sundaes!
-------
🍨 Current Families: We are so proud of our students' hard work in preparing for this event. For specific student volunteer shift schedules, dress requirements for the stand, and parent coordinator contacts, please check your ClassDojo stories.
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12
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Domna of Tomsk, Fool-for-Christ (October 16)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Domna of Tomsk, Fool-for-Christ (October 16)
October 12, 2026 - October 16, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: Saint Domna (Karpovna) of Tomsk, the Fool-for-Christ.
When: October 16th.
Her Story: Saint Domna was born into a wealthy, noble family in Ukraine around the beginning of the nineteenth century. Orphaned early on, she was raised by her aunt, who provided her with an exceptional classical education, including fluency in multiple languages. Because she was beautiful and wealthy, many noble suitors wanted to marry her. Desiring to give her whole life to Christ, she fled her home in secret when her family tried to force a marriage. Traveling without identity papers, she was arrested as a vagrant and exiled to the frontier city of Tomsk, Siberia. There, she chose the difficult path of a "Fool-for-Christ"—pretending to be mad to hide her intelligence and holiness from the world. Domna had no home and wore a wild collection of mismatched clothes. She carried heavy bags filled with broken glass, rocks, sugar, and ropes, counting them like prayer knots to secretly pray without anyone noticing. She spent her days sneaking into prisons to feed and sing hymns to the prisoners, and her nights praying in the freezing winter woods surrounded by a pack of stray dogs she fed and protected. Though she hid her deep tears and constant prayers behind silly behavior, she was granted the gift of clairvoyance and transformed the city through her extreme charity. She peacefully fell asleep in the Lord in 1872.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
Kindness to the Lonely: Saint Domna loved to bring sweet treats and sing happy songs to people who were locked away in prison or living on the cold streets. How can we share joy with people who are having a sad or lonely day?
-
Caring for God's Animals: Saint Domna loved stray dogs that nobody else cared about, and they would sit around her and keep her warm at night. How can we show love and kindness to the pets and creatures God made?
-
Not Needing Praise: Domna didn't want anyone to boast about how holy she was, so she hid her prayers by playing silly games. Is it sometimes hard to do a good deed without running to show someone or wanting a reward right away?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
The Concept of a "Fool-for-Christ": Holy Fools (Saloi) voluntarily give up their social status, reputation, and comfort to live a life of complete humility, hiding their gifts behind apparent madness. Why is worldly reputation such a dangerous trap for the soul? Why would a saint choose to look foolish to men in order to remain close to God?
-
Hidden Prayer vs. Public Performance: Saint Domna wept streams of tears when praying alone in the side chapels, but the second someone looked at her, she would act silly and blow out candles to hide her piety. How does this challenge the way we approach our public versus private spiritual lives? What is the danger of performing our goodness for others to see?
-
Compassion for the Outcast: Domna ministered extensively to criminals in the local police station and guarded the stray dogs turned loose by their owners. How can we expand our own hearts to notice and serve the "outcasts" of our modern neighborhoods, schools, or social circles—those whom society deems unlovable or inconvenient?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Note that because Saint Domna is a local saint of Siberia, her life is not found in your copies of 101 or 102 Orthodox Saints. She is a hidden gem for our community to study together this week!
-
Scriptural Connection: Read Proverbs 12:10 ("A righteous man pities the lives of his animals") and 1 Corinthians 1:27 ("God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise"). Discuss how Saint Domna lived out these exact passages.
-
Online Reading: Read the complete, moving account of her trial, her gift of spiritual insight, and her legacy as the "Siberian Xenia" at the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
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📌 Teachers will be highlighting Saint Domna this week to discuss how true beauty and wisdom are found on the inside, hidden from worldly eyes. Ask your student why Saint Domna counted rocks instead of knots on a prayer rope!
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🍎 Teacher Inservice
🍎 Teacher Inservice
October 12, 2026 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
🗓️ No School: Teacher Professional Development Day
What: School is closed for students while our faculty gathers for an Inservice Day.
When: Monday, October 12th.
Why: To give our teachers time to reset their classrooms and put the final touches on Parent-Teacher Conference planning so they can continue to serve your children with excellence.
Office Availability & How to Reach Us: Because our administrative team is actively participating in these trainings and working alongside teachers in the classrooms, office hours today will be fluid.
-------
📌 Note: Classes will resume on Wednesday, October 14th, but we'll see you parents at your Parent-Teacher Conference on Tuesday, October 13th. Enjoy the long weekend with your families!
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13
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Domna of Tomsk, Fool-for-Christ (October 16)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Domna of Tomsk, Fool-for-Christ (October 16)
October 12, 2026 - October 16, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: Saint Domna (Karpovna) of Tomsk, the Fool-for-Christ.
When: October 16th.
Her Story: Saint Domna was born into a wealthy, noble family in Ukraine around the beginning of the nineteenth century. Orphaned early on, she was raised by her aunt, who provided her with an exceptional classical education, including fluency in multiple languages. Because she was beautiful and wealthy, many noble suitors wanted to marry her. Desiring to give her whole life to Christ, she fled her home in secret when her family tried to force a marriage. Traveling without identity papers, she was arrested as a vagrant and exiled to the frontier city of Tomsk, Siberia. There, she chose the difficult path of a "Fool-for-Christ"—pretending to be mad to hide her intelligence and holiness from the world. Domna had no home and wore a wild collection of mismatched clothes. She carried heavy bags filled with broken glass, rocks, sugar, and ropes, counting them like prayer knots to secretly pray without anyone noticing. She spent her days sneaking into prisons to feed and sing hymns to the prisoners, and her nights praying in the freezing winter woods surrounded by a pack of stray dogs she fed and protected. Though she hid her deep tears and constant prayers behind silly behavior, she was granted the gift of clairvoyance and transformed the city through her extreme charity. She peacefully fell asleep in the Lord in 1872.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
Kindness to the Lonely: Saint Domna loved to bring sweet treats and sing happy songs to people who were locked away in prison or living on the cold streets. How can we share joy with people who are having a sad or lonely day?
-
Caring for God's Animals: Saint Domna loved stray dogs that nobody else cared about, and they would sit around her and keep her warm at night. How can we show love and kindness to the pets and creatures God made?
-
Not Needing Praise: Domna didn't want anyone to boast about how holy she was, so she hid her prayers by playing silly games. Is it sometimes hard to do a good deed without running to show someone or wanting a reward right away?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
The Concept of a "Fool-for-Christ": Holy Fools (Saloi) voluntarily give up their social status, reputation, and comfort to live a life of complete humility, hiding their gifts behind apparent madness. Why is worldly reputation such a dangerous trap for the soul? Why would a saint choose to look foolish to men in order to remain close to God?
-
Hidden Prayer vs. Public Performance: Saint Domna wept streams of tears when praying alone in the side chapels, but the second someone looked at her, she would act silly and blow out candles to hide her piety. How does this challenge the way we approach our public versus private spiritual lives? What is the danger of performing our goodness for others to see?
-
Compassion for the Outcast: Domna ministered extensively to criminals in the local police station and guarded the stray dogs turned loose by their owners. How can we expand our own hearts to notice and serve the "outcasts" of our modern neighborhoods, schools, or social circles—those whom society deems unlovable or inconvenient?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Note that because Saint Domna is a local saint of Siberia, her life is not found in your copies of 101 or 102 Orthodox Saints. She is a hidden gem for our community to study together this week!
-
Scriptural Connection: Read Proverbs 12:10 ("A righteous man pities the lives of his animals") and 1 Corinthians 1:27 ("God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise"). Discuss how Saint Domna lived out these exact passages.
-
Online Reading: Read the complete, moving account of her trial, her gift of spiritual insight, and her legacy as the "Siberian Xenia" at the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
-------
📌 Teachers will be highlighting Saint Domna this week to discuss how true beauty and wisdom are found on the inside, hidden from worldly eyes. Ask your student why Saint Domna counted rocks instead of knots on a prayer rope!
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💬 Parent/Teacher Conferences
💬 Parent/Teacher Conferences
October 13, 2026 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
💬 Parent/Teacher Conferences (No School for Students)
What: Dedicated time for parents and teachers to meet one-on-one to discuss each student's academic, social, and spiritual growth.
When: Tuesday, October 13th, at your reserved conference time.
How to Schedule: To maintain an organized and safe environment, conference time slots must be booked in advance. Please check ClassDojo for your student's teacher's specific scheduling link.
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14
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Domna of Tomsk, Fool-for-Christ (October 16)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Domna of Tomsk, Fool-for-Christ (October 16)
October 12, 2026 - October 16, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: Saint Domna (Karpovna) of Tomsk, the Fool-for-Christ.
When: October 16th.
Her Story: Saint Domna was born into a wealthy, noble family in Ukraine around the beginning of the nineteenth century. Orphaned early on, she was raised by her aunt, who provided her with an exceptional classical education, including fluency in multiple languages. Because she was beautiful and wealthy, many noble suitors wanted to marry her. Desiring to give her whole life to Christ, she fled her home in secret when her family tried to force a marriage. Traveling without identity papers, she was arrested as a vagrant and exiled to the frontier city of Tomsk, Siberia. There, she chose the difficult path of a "Fool-for-Christ"—pretending to be mad to hide her intelligence and holiness from the world. Domna had no home and wore a wild collection of mismatched clothes. She carried heavy bags filled with broken glass, rocks, sugar, and ropes, counting them like prayer knots to secretly pray without anyone noticing. She spent her days sneaking into prisons to feed and sing hymns to the prisoners, and her nights praying in the freezing winter woods surrounded by a pack of stray dogs she fed and protected. Though she hid her deep tears and constant prayers behind silly behavior, she was granted the gift of clairvoyance and transformed the city through her extreme charity. She peacefully fell asleep in the Lord in 1872.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
Kindness to the Lonely: Saint Domna loved to bring sweet treats and sing happy songs to people who were locked away in prison or living on the cold streets. How can we share joy with people who are having a sad or lonely day?
-
Caring for God's Animals: Saint Domna loved stray dogs that nobody else cared about, and they would sit around her and keep her warm at night. How can we show love and kindness to the pets and creatures God made?
-
Not Needing Praise: Domna didn't want anyone to boast about how holy she was, so she hid her prayers by playing silly games. Is it sometimes hard to do a good deed without running to show someone or wanting a reward right away?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
The Concept of a "Fool-for-Christ": Holy Fools (Saloi) voluntarily give up their social status, reputation, and comfort to live a life of complete humility, hiding their gifts behind apparent madness. Why is worldly reputation such a dangerous trap for the soul? Why would a saint choose to look foolish to men in order to remain close to God?
-
Hidden Prayer vs. Public Performance: Saint Domna wept streams of tears when praying alone in the side chapels, but the second someone looked at her, she would act silly and blow out candles to hide her piety. How does this challenge the way we approach our public versus private spiritual lives? What is the danger of performing our goodness for others to see?
-
Compassion for the Outcast: Domna ministered extensively to criminals in the local police station and guarded the stray dogs turned loose by their owners. How can we expand our own hearts to notice and serve the "outcasts" of our modern neighborhoods, schools, or social circles—those whom society deems unlovable or inconvenient?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Note that because Saint Domna is a local saint of Siberia, her life is not found in your copies of 101 or 102 Orthodox Saints. She is a hidden gem for our community to study together this week!
-
Scriptural Connection: Read Proverbs 12:10 ("A righteous man pities the lives of his animals") and 1 Corinthians 1:27 ("God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise"). Discuss how Saint Domna lived out these exact passages.
-
Online Reading: Read the complete, moving account of her trial, her gift of spiritual insight, and her legacy as the "Siberian Xenia" at the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
-------
📌 Teachers will be highlighting Saint Domna this week to discuss how true beauty and wisdom are found on the inside, hidden from worldly eyes. Ask your student why Saint Domna counted rocks instead of knots on a prayer rope!
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👔 Calendar Reminder: Weekly Dress Uniform Day
👔 Calendar Reminder: Weekly Dress Uniform Day
October 14, 2026
What: A weekly reminder for all students to arrive on campus in their complete, formal Dress Uniform.
When: Every Wednesday (unless otherwise noted for special events).
Why: At Christ the Savior Academy, we believe that our outward appearance can beautifully reflect and support our inward disposition. We intentionally schedule our school liturgies, picture days, and all-school recitation assemblies on Wednesdays whenever possible. Wearing our formal Dress Uniforms on these days provides our students with a tangible, visual reminder that we are entering into something sacred and elevated. Just as we prepare our hearts for prayer, dressing with care helps us cultivate a corporate culture of reverence, attentiveness, and excellence as we stand before God and one another.
How to Prepare:
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📐 Check the Guide: Please ensure your child has all necessary components of the formal dress uniform clean and ready to go on Tuesday evening (including the correct sweaters, ties, and dress shoes).
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🗓️ Calendar Flexibility: While we always strive to keep these events on Wednesdays, the liturgical calendar occasionally requires adjustments. We will always notify you in advance via ClassDojo if a different day requires Dress Uniforms!
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📌 Current Families: For a quick refresher on the specific dress uniform requirements for each grade level, please refer to the CSA Uniform Guidelines on our Parent Resources page of the CSA website.
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🔔 Monthly All-School Assembly & Student Recitations
🔔 Monthly All-School Assembly & Student Recitations
October 14, 2026
What: Our monthly gathering to come together as a whole school community. This month’s assembly features students sharing recitations of poems, scriptures, and songs they have been mastering. It is a joyful time to celebrate their hard work, mutual encouragement, and the spiritual and academic growth taking place across all grades.
Who: All CSA students and faculty.
When: Scheduled during the school day. (Current families, please see your weekly newsletter or ClassDojo for exact times).
Where: CSA Campus (Closed to the public).
Why: A classical Orthodox education flourishes when we pause to celebrate beauty, truth, and goodness as a community. By gathering to hear each other's recitations, our students practice public speaking, hide sacred words in their hearts, and learn to cheer on the achievements of their peers.
How to Participate:
- For Students: Please arrive well-prepared and ready to support your peers. (Note: Please see the separate calendar entry regarding Dress Uniform requirements for today).
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For Parents: While this assembly is focused on our student-and-faculty community, you won't miss out! Please keep a close eye on your ClassDojo stories throughout the day, where we will be posting videos of the classroom recitations and highlights from the assembly.
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📬 Prospective Families: Witnessing our students joyfully share what they are learning is a wonderful way to experience the heart of a classical Orthodox school. If you are considering CSA for your family, please contact the school office to schedule a campus tour that includes a guest seat at this month's assembly.
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15
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Domna of Tomsk, Fool-for-Christ (October 16)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Domna of Tomsk, Fool-for-Christ (October 16)
October 12, 2026 - October 16, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: Saint Domna (Karpovna) of Tomsk, the Fool-for-Christ.
When: October 16th.
Her Story: Saint Domna was born into a wealthy, noble family in Ukraine around the beginning of the nineteenth century. Orphaned early on, she was raised by her aunt, who provided her with an exceptional classical education, including fluency in multiple languages. Because she was beautiful and wealthy, many noble suitors wanted to marry her. Desiring to give her whole life to Christ, she fled her home in secret when her family tried to force a marriage. Traveling without identity papers, she was arrested as a vagrant and exiled to the frontier city of Tomsk, Siberia. There, she chose the difficult path of a "Fool-for-Christ"—pretending to be mad to hide her intelligence and holiness from the world. Domna had no home and wore a wild collection of mismatched clothes. She carried heavy bags filled with broken glass, rocks, sugar, and ropes, counting them like prayer knots to secretly pray without anyone noticing. She spent her days sneaking into prisons to feed and sing hymns to the prisoners, and her nights praying in the freezing winter woods surrounded by a pack of stray dogs she fed and protected. Though she hid her deep tears and constant prayers behind silly behavior, she was granted the gift of clairvoyance and transformed the city through her extreme charity. She peacefully fell asleep in the Lord in 1872.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
Kindness to the Lonely: Saint Domna loved to bring sweet treats and sing happy songs to people who were locked away in prison or living on the cold streets. How can we share joy with people who are having a sad or lonely day?
-
Caring for God's Animals: Saint Domna loved stray dogs that nobody else cared about, and they would sit around her and keep her warm at night. How can we show love and kindness to the pets and creatures God made?
-
Not Needing Praise: Domna didn't want anyone to boast about how holy she was, so she hid her prayers by playing silly games. Is it sometimes hard to do a good deed without running to show someone or wanting a reward right away?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
The Concept of a "Fool-for-Christ": Holy Fools (Saloi) voluntarily give up their social status, reputation, and comfort to live a life of complete humility, hiding their gifts behind apparent madness. Why is worldly reputation such a dangerous trap for the soul? Why would a saint choose to look foolish to men in order to remain close to God?
-
Hidden Prayer vs. Public Performance: Saint Domna wept streams of tears when praying alone in the side chapels, but the second someone looked at her, she would act silly and blow out candles to hide her piety. How does this challenge the way we approach our public versus private spiritual lives? What is the danger of performing our goodness for others to see?
-
Compassion for the Outcast: Domna ministered extensively to criminals in the local police station and guarded the stray dogs turned loose by their owners. How can we expand our own hearts to notice and serve the "outcasts" of our modern neighborhoods, schools, or social circles—those whom society deems unlovable or inconvenient?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Note that because Saint Domna is a local saint of Siberia, her life is not found in your copies of 101 or 102 Orthodox Saints. She is a hidden gem for our community to study together this week!
-
Scriptural Connection: Read Proverbs 12:10 ("A righteous man pities the lives of his animals") and 1 Corinthians 1:27 ("God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise"). Discuss how Saint Domna lived out these exact passages.
-
Online Reading: Read the complete, moving account of her trial, her gift of spiritual insight, and her legacy as the "Siberian Xenia" at the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
-------
📌 Teachers will be highlighting Saint Domna this week to discuss how true beauty and wisdom are found on the inside, hidden from worldly eyes. Ask your student why Saint Domna counted rocks instead of knots on a prayer rope!
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16
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Domna of Tomsk, Fool-for-Christ (October 16)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Domna of Tomsk, Fool-for-Christ (October 16)
October 12, 2026 - October 16, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: Saint Domna (Karpovna) of Tomsk, the Fool-for-Christ.
When: October 16th.
Her Story: Saint Domna was born into a wealthy, noble family in Ukraine around the beginning of the nineteenth century. Orphaned early on, she was raised by her aunt, who provided her with an exceptional classical education, including fluency in multiple languages. Because she was beautiful and wealthy, many noble suitors wanted to marry her. Desiring to give her whole life to Christ, she fled her home in secret when her family tried to force a marriage. Traveling without identity papers, she was arrested as a vagrant and exiled to the frontier city of Tomsk, Siberia. There, she chose the difficult path of a "Fool-for-Christ"—pretending to be mad to hide her intelligence and holiness from the world. Domna had no home and wore a wild collection of mismatched clothes. She carried heavy bags filled with broken glass, rocks, sugar, and ropes, counting them like prayer knots to secretly pray without anyone noticing. She spent her days sneaking into prisons to feed and sing hymns to the prisoners, and her nights praying in the freezing winter woods surrounded by a pack of stray dogs she fed and protected. Though she hid her deep tears and constant prayers behind silly behavior, she was granted the gift of clairvoyance and transformed the city through her extreme charity. She peacefully fell asleep in the Lord in 1872.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
Kindness to the Lonely: Saint Domna loved to bring sweet treats and sing happy songs to people who were locked away in prison or living on the cold streets. How can we share joy with people who are having a sad or lonely day?
-
Caring for God's Animals: Saint Domna loved stray dogs that nobody else cared about, and they would sit around her and keep her warm at night. How can we show love and kindness to the pets and creatures God made?
-
Not Needing Praise: Domna didn't want anyone to boast about how holy she was, so she hid her prayers by playing silly games. Is it sometimes hard to do a good deed without running to show someone or wanting a reward right away?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
The Concept of a "Fool-for-Christ": Holy Fools (Saloi) voluntarily give up their social status, reputation, and comfort to live a life of complete humility, hiding their gifts behind apparent madness. Why is worldly reputation such a dangerous trap for the soul? Why would a saint choose to look foolish to men in order to remain close to God?
-
Hidden Prayer vs. Public Performance: Saint Domna wept streams of tears when praying alone in the side chapels, but the second someone looked at her, she would act silly and blow out candles to hide her piety. How does this challenge the way we approach our public versus private spiritual lives? What is the danger of performing our goodness for others to see?
-
Compassion for the Outcast: Domna ministered extensively to criminals in the local police station and guarded the stray dogs turned loose by their owners. How can we expand our own hearts to notice and serve the "outcasts" of our modern neighborhoods, schools, or social circles—those whom society deems unlovable or inconvenient?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Note that because Saint Domna is a local saint of Siberia, her life is not found in your copies of 101 or 102 Orthodox Saints. She is a hidden gem for our community to study together this week!
-
Scriptural Connection: Read Proverbs 12:10 ("A righteous man pities the lives of his animals") and 1 Corinthians 1:27 ("God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise"). Discuss how Saint Domna lived out these exact passages.
-
Online Reading: Read the complete, moving account of her trial, her gift of spiritual insight, and her legacy as the "Siberian Xenia" at the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
-------
📌 Teachers will be highlighting Saint Domna this week to discuss how true beauty and wisdom are found on the inside, hidden from worldly eyes. Ask your student why Saint Domna counted rocks instead of knots on a prayer rope!
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18
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19
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Luke the Evangelist (October 18)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Luke the Evangelist (October 18)
October 19, 2026 - October 23, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: The Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke.
When: October 18th.
His Story: Saint Luke was a highly educated Greek physician born in the cosmopolitan, Hellenistic city of Antioch. His youth was dedicated to classical studies, encompassing ancient philosophy, professional medicine, and the fine arts. Upon encountering Christ’s teachings, Luke laid down his worldly ambitions to place his brilliant intellect and refined artistic skills in service to the Gospel.
As a writer, Luke composed his Gospel and the Book of Acts with the most sophisticated, elegant, and grammatically complex Greek in the entire New Testament. He worked as a meticulous historian, conducting a careful chronological investigation and interviewing eyewitnesses—including the Virgin Mary herself—to preserve the sacred history of our salvation. As a professional physician, Luke spent years traveling on perilous missionary journeys alongside Saint Paul, who affectionately referred to him as "the beloved physician." Furthermore, Holy Tradition honors Saint Luke as the very first iconographer, painting the earliest portraits of the Mother of God holding the infant Christ. He eventually preached across Greece and sealed his glorious ministry with martyrdom at the age of 84.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
Using Our Talents: Luke was a doctor, a writer, and an artist, and he used all of his talents to help people and serve God. What are some of the things you love to do (like drawing, writing stories, building, or singing)? How can we use those fun talents to make God happy and help others?
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Care and Kindness: As a physician (doctor), Luke knew how to take care of people who were sick or hurt. What are small ways we can show extra kindness to classmates, friends, or family members when they are not feeling well or having a hard day?
-
The First Holy Pictures: Saint Luke painted some of the very first holy pictures (icons) of Mary and baby Jesus. Why do you think beautiful pictures in our churches and homes help us remember God and pray with joyful hearts?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
The Order of a Historian: In his Gospel prologue, Luke notes that he undertook a systematic, orderly investigation of eyewitness accounts before writing his narrative. Why is historical precision, careful research, and primary-source investigation so vital to our faith and our classical studies?
-
The Harmony of Science and Faith: As a professional physician, Luke saw physical healing and spiritual healing as deeply connected, working in harmony. Why does a classical education reject the modern idea that science and faith are enemies? How does the orderly design of the human body point us back to the Creator?
-
Visual Theology (Sacred Art): Holy Tradition honors Luke as the first iconographer, showing that beauty is a "window to heaven" and that the fine arts can actively proclaim theological truths. How does looking at high art, sacred architecture, and icons train our souls to appreciate what is beautiful, good, and true?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Flip to page 73 in "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach for an engaging, beautifully illustrated biography of this beloved Apostle.
-
Scriptural Context: Read the prologue in Luke 1:1-4 to see his dedication to "Theophilus," and then flip to Colossians 4:14 to find Saint Paul's endearing reference to him as "the beloved physician."
-
Online Reading: To read about his deep missionary journeys alongside Saint Paul, his martyrdom in Greece, and to hear the festal hymns of the day, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Apostle and Evangelist Luke Life Page.
-------
📌 Note: Saint Luke is a magnificent example of how our academic studies, scientific curiosity, and artistic endeavors are elevated when offered to Christ! This week, teachers will be highlighting the beauty of Luke's Gospel prose and his legacy in Christian art. Ask your student this Friday why Saint Luke is traditionally represented by the symbol of a winged ox!
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🍗 Hot Lunch Monday Program
🍗 Hot Lunch Monday Program
October 19, 2026 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm
What: Our weekly catering program provides a special, easy hot lunch option for all students who are pre-registered for the semester.
Who: All CSA students who have signed up for the Hot Lunch Monday program and the Parent Volunteer.
When: Every Monday throughout the academic year.
Why: At Christ the Savior Academy, we strive to make the rhythms of the school week both joyful for our students and practical for our busy families. Our Hot Lunch Monday program provides a fun community meal while seamlessly honoring the liturgical seasons of the Church. By serving favorite standard options during regular weeks and shifting to simple, fasting-compliant alternatives during the designated penitential seasons, we help our students learn that fasting can be communal, consistent, and lived out naturally together in the lunchroom.
What is Served & How to Pack:
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🍗 Regular Weeks: Students will enjoy delicious Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets.
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🍏 Nutritious Sides: Because the school provides the main entree, parents are asked to pack healthy, nutritious sides (fruits, vegetables, snacks) to round out their student's lunchbox each Monday.
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📌 Current Families: Please note that this program requires pre-registration at the start of each semester so our coordinators can place accurate bulk orders. If you ever need to verify your child's registration status, check the current fasting schedule, or report an allergy, please email the office directly at office@csawichita.org . To be a parent volunteer for a Hot Lunch Monday, please sign up via ClassDojo for any week that works for you.
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Luke the Evangelist (October 18)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Luke the Evangelist (October 18)
October 19, 2026 - October 23, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: The Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke.
When: October 18th.
His Story: Saint Luke was a highly educated Greek physician born in the cosmopolitan, Hellenistic city of Antioch. His youth was dedicated to classical studies, encompassing ancient philosophy, professional medicine, and the fine arts. Upon encountering Christ’s teachings, Luke laid down his worldly ambitions to place his brilliant intellect and refined artistic skills in service to the Gospel.
As a writer, Luke composed his Gospel and the Book of Acts with the most sophisticated, elegant, and grammatically complex Greek in the entire New Testament. He worked as a meticulous historian, conducting a careful chronological investigation and interviewing eyewitnesses—including the Virgin Mary herself—to preserve the sacred history of our salvation. As a professional physician, Luke spent years traveling on perilous missionary journeys alongside Saint Paul, who affectionately referred to him as "the beloved physician." Furthermore, Holy Tradition honors Saint Luke as the very first iconographer, painting the earliest portraits of the Mother of God holding the infant Christ. He eventually preached across Greece and sealed his glorious ministry with martyrdom at the age of 84.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
Using Our Talents: Luke was a doctor, a writer, and an artist, and he used all of his talents to help people and serve God. What are some of the things you love to do (like drawing, writing stories, building, or singing)? How can we use those fun talents to make God happy and help others?
-
Care and Kindness: As a physician (doctor), Luke knew how to take care of people who were sick or hurt. What are small ways we can show extra kindness to classmates, friends, or family members when they are not feeling well or having a hard day?
-
The First Holy Pictures: Saint Luke painted some of the very first holy pictures (icons) of Mary and baby Jesus. Why do you think beautiful pictures in our churches and homes help us remember God and pray with joyful hearts?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
The Order of a Historian: In his Gospel prologue, Luke notes that he undertook a systematic, orderly investigation of eyewitness accounts before writing his narrative. Why is historical precision, careful research, and primary-source investigation so vital to our faith and our classical studies?
-
The Harmony of Science and Faith: As a professional physician, Luke saw physical healing and spiritual healing as deeply connected, working in harmony. Why does a classical education reject the modern idea that science and faith are enemies? How does the orderly design of the human body point us back to the Creator?
-
Visual Theology (Sacred Art): Holy Tradition honors Luke as the first iconographer, showing that beauty is a "window to heaven" and that the fine arts can actively proclaim theological truths. How does looking at high art, sacred architecture, and icons train our souls to appreciate what is beautiful, good, and true?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Flip to page 73 in "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach for an engaging, beautifully illustrated biography of this beloved Apostle.
-
Scriptural Context: Read the prologue in Luke 1:1-4 to see his dedication to "Theophilus," and then flip to Colossians 4:14 to find Saint Paul's endearing reference to him as "the beloved physician."
-
Online Reading: To read about his deep missionary journeys alongside Saint Paul, his martyrdom in Greece, and to hear the festal hymns of the day, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Apostle and Evangelist Luke Life Page.
-------
📌 Note: Saint Luke is a magnificent example of how our academic studies, scientific curiosity, and artistic endeavors are elevated when offered to Christ! This week, teachers will be highlighting the beauty of Luke's Gospel prose and his legacy in Christian art. Ask your student this Friday why Saint Luke is traditionally represented by the symbol of a winged ox!
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Luke the Evangelist (October 18)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Luke the Evangelist (October 18)
October 19, 2026 - October 23, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: The Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke.
When: October 18th.
His Story: Saint Luke was a highly educated Greek physician born in the cosmopolitan, Hellenistic city of Antioch. His youth was dedicated to classical studies, encompassing ancient philosophy, professional medicine, and the fine arts. Upon encountering Christ’s teachings, Luke laid down his worldly ambitions to place his brilliant intellect and refined artistic skills in service to the Gospel.
As a writer, Luke composed his Gospel and the Book of Acts with the most sophisticated, elegant, and grammatically complex Greek in the entire New Testament. He worked as a meticulous historian, conducting a careful chronological investigation and interviewing eyewitnesses—including the Virgin Mary herself—to preserve the sacred history of our salvation. As a professional physician, Luke spent years traveling on perilous missionary journeys alongside Saint Paul, who affectionately referred to him as "the beloved physician." Furthermore, Holy Tradition honors Saint Luke as the very first iconographer, painting the earliest portraits of the Mother of God holding the infant Christ. He eventually preached across Greece and sealed his glorious ministry with martyrdom at the age of 84.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
Using Our Talents: Luke was a doctor, a writer, and an artist, and he used all of his talents to help people and serve God. What are some of the things you love to do (like drawing, writing stories, building, or singing)? How can we use those fun talents to make God happy and help others?
-
Care and Kindness: As a physician (doctor), Luke knew how to take care of people who were sick or hurt. What are small ways we can show extra kindness to classmates, friends, or family members when they are not feeling well or having a hard day?
-
The First Holy Pictures: Saint Luke painted some of the very first holy pictures (icons) of Mary and baby Jesus. Why do you think beautiful pictures in our churches and homes help us remember God and pray with joyful hearts?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
The Order of a Historian: In his Gospel prologue, Luke notes that he undertook a systematic, orderly investigation of eyewitness accounts before writing his narrative. Why is historical precision, careful research, and primary-source investigation so vital to our faith and our classical studies?
-
The Harmony of Science and Faith: As a professional physician, Luke saw physical healing and spiritual healing as deeply connected, working in harmony. Why does a classical education reject the modern idea that science and faith are enemies? How does the orderly design of the human body point us back to the Creator?
-
Visual Theology (Sacred Art): Holy Tradition honors Luke as the first iconographer, showing that beauty is a "window to heaven" and that the fine arts can actively proclaim theological truths. How does looking at high art, sacred architecture, and icons train our souls to appreciate what is beautiful, good, and true?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Flip to page 73 in "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach for an engaging, beautifully illustrated biography of this beloved Apostle.
-
Scriptural Context: Read the prologue in Luke 1:1-4 to see his dedication to "Theophilus," and then flip to Colossians 4:14 to find Saint Paul's endearing reference to him as "the beloved physician."
-
Online Reading: To read about his deep missionary journeys alongside Saint Paul, his martyrdom in Greece, and to hear the festal hymns of the day, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Apostle and Evangelist Luke Life Page.
-------
📌 Note: Saint Luke is a magnificent example of how our academic studies, scientific curiosity, and artistic endeavors are elevated when offered to Christ! This week, teachers will be highlighting the beauty of Luke's Gospel prose and his legacy in Christian art. Ask your student this Friday why Saint Luke is traditionally represented by the symbol of a winged ox!
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⚠️ Routine Alert: Standard Uniform Today
⚠️ Routine Alert: Standard Uniform Today
October 21, 2026
What: A schedule notice that students should NOT wear their Dress Uniforms today. Instead, please wear the standard, daily school uniform.
When: This Wednesday, October 21st.
Why: To protect our families' laundry routines and ensure our students look their absolute finest for our major school events, we try not to ask families to prepare two Dress Uniform days in a single week. Because we have a special, elevated event scheduled for later this week—where our students will be standing before our community in leadership and reverence—we are shifting our formal Dress Uniform day to match that celebration.
🗓️ The New Schedule for This Week:
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Today (Wednesday): Standard/Daily Uniform (No formal ties or sweaters required).
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This Friday, October 23rd: Mandatory Dress Uniform Day for our School Liturgy.
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📌 Current Families: Please double-check your ClassDojo calendar to ensure your child has their formal uniform fully prepared for Friday. If you have any questions about the uniform requirements for this week's upcoming event, feel free to reach out to your homeroom teacher.
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Luke the Evangelist (October 18)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Luke the Evangelist (October 18)
October 19, 2026 - October 23, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: The Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke.
When: October 18th.
His Story: Saint Luke was a highly educated Greek physician born in the cosmopolitan, Hellenistic city of Antioch. His youth was dedicated to classical studies, encompassing ancient philosophy, professional medicine, and the fine arts. Upon encountering Christ’s teachings, Luke laid down his worldly ambitions to place his brilliant intellect and refined artistic skills in service to the Gospel.
As a writer, Luke composed his Gospel and the Book of Acts with the most sophisticated, elegant, and grammatically complex Greek in the entire New Testament. He worked as a meticulous historian, conducting a careful chronological investigation and interviewing eyewitnesses—including the Virgin Mary herself—to preserve the sacred history of our salvation. As a professional physician, Luke spent years traveling on perilous missionary journeys alongside Saint Paul, who affectionately referred to him as "the beloved physician." Furthermore, Holy Tradition honors Saint Luke as the very first iconographer, painting the earliest portraits of the Mother of God holding the infant Christ. He eventually preached across Greece and sealed his glorious ministry with martyrdom at the age of 84.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
Using Our Talents: Luke was a doctor, a writer, and an artist, and he used all of his talents to help people and serve God. What are some of the things you love to do (like drawing, writing stories, building, or singing)? How can we use those fun talents to make God happy and help others?
-
Care and Kindness: As a physician (doctor), Luke knew how to take care of people who were sick or hurt. What are small ways we can show extra kindness to classmates, friends, or family members when they are not feeling well or having a hard day?
-
The First Holy Pictures: Saint Luke painted some of the very first holy pictures (icons) of Mary and baby Jesus. Why do you think beautiful pictures in our churches and homes help us remember God and pray with joyful hearts?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
The Order of a Historian: In his Gospel prologue, Luke notes that he undertook a systematic, orderly investigation of eyewitness accounts before writing his narrative. Why is historical precision, careful research, and primary-source investigation so vital to our faith and our classical studies?
-
The Harmony of Science and Faith: As a professional physician, Luke saw physical healing and spiritual healing as deeply connected, working in harmony. Why does a classical education reject the modern idea that science and faith are enemies? How does the orderly design of the human body point us back to the Creator?
-
Visual Theology (Sacred Art): Holy Tradition honors Luke as the first iconographer, showing that beauty is a "window to heaven" and that the fine arts can actively proclaim theological truths. How does looking at high art, sacred architecture, and icons train our souls to appreciate what is beautiful, good, and true?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Flip to page 73 in "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach for an engaging, beautifully illustrated biography of this beloved Apostle.
-
Scriptural Context: Read the prologue in Luke 1:1-4 to see his dedication to "Theophilus," and then flip to Colossians 4:14 to find Saint Paul's endearing reference to him as "the beloved physician."
-
Online Reading: To read about his deep missionary journeys alongside Saint Paul, his martyrdom in Greece, and to hear the festal hymns of the day, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Apostle and Evangelist Luke Life Page.
-------
📌 Note: Saint Luke is a magnificent example of how our academic studies, scientific curiosity, and artistic endeavors are elevated when offered to Christ! This week, teachers will be highlighting the beauty of Luke's Gospel prose and his legacy in Christian art. Ask your student this Friday why Saint Luke is traditionally represented by the symbol of a winged ox!
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Luke the Evangelist (October 18)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Luke the Evangelist (October 18)
October 19, 2026 - October 23, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: The Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke.
When: October 18th.
His Story: Saint Luke was a highly educated Greek physician born in the cosmopolitan, Hellenistic city of Antioch. His youth was dedicated to classical studies, encompassing ancient philosophy, professional medicine, and the fine arts. Upon encountering Christ’s teachings, Luke laid down his worldly ambitions to place his brilliant intellect and refined artistic skills in service to the Gospel.
As a writer, Luke composed his Gospel and the Book of Acts with the most sophisticated, elegant, and grammatically complex Greek in the entire New Testament. He worked as a meticulous historian, conducting a careful chronological investigation and interviewing eyewitnesses—including the Virgin Mary herself—to preserve the sacred history of our salvation. As a professional physician, Luke spent years traveling on perilous missionary journeys alongside Saint Paul, who affectionately referred to him as "the beloved physician." Furthermore, Holy Tradition honors Saint Luke as the very first iconographer, painting the earliest portraits of the Mother of God holding the infant Christ. He eventually preached across Greece and sealed his glorious ministry with martyrdom at the age of 84.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
Using Our Talents: Luke was a doctor, a writer, and an artist, and he used all of his talents to help people and serve God. What are some of the things you love to do (like drawing, writing stories, building, or singing)? How can we use those fun talents to make God happy and help others?
-
Care and Kindness: As a physician (doctor), Luke knew how to take care of people who were sick or hurt. What are small ways we can show extra kindness to classmates, friends, or family members when they are not feeling well or having a hard day?
-
The First Holy Pictures: Saint Luke painted some of the very first holy pictures (icons) of Mary and baby Jesus. Why do you think beautiful pictures in our churches and homes help us remember God and pray with joyful hearts?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
The Order of a Historian: In his Gospel prologue, Luke notes that he undertook a systematic, orderly investigation of eyewitness accounts before writing his narrative. Why is historical precision, careful research, and primary-source investigation so vital to our faith and our classical studies?
-
The Harmony of Science and Faith: As a professional physician, Luke saw physical healing and spiritual healing as deeply connected, working in harmony. Why does a classical education reject the modern idea that science and faith are enemies? How does the orderly design of the human body point us back to the Creator?
-
Visual Theology (Sacred Art): Holy Tradition honors Luke as the first iconographer, showing that beauty is a "window to heaven" and that the fine arts can actively proclaim theological truths. How does looking at high art, sacred architecture, and icons train our souls to appreciate what is beautiful, good, and true?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Flip to page 73 in "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach for an engaging, beautifully illustrated biography of this beloved Apostle.
-
Scriptural Context: Read the prologue in Luke 1:1-4 to see his dedication to "Theophilus," and then flip to Colossians 4:14 to find Saint Paul's endearing reference to him as "the beloved physician."
-
Online Reading: To read about his deep missionary journeys alongside Saint Paul, his martyrdom in Greece, and to hear the festal hymns of the day, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Apostle and Evangelist Luke Life Page.
-------
📌 Note: Saint Luke is a magnificent example of how our academic studies, scientific curiosity, and artistic endeavors are elevated when offered to Christ! This week, teachers will be highlighting the beauty of Luke's Gospel prose and his legacy in Christian art. Ask your student this Friday why Saint Luke is traditionally represented by the symbol of a winged ox!
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👔 Calendar Reminder: Weekly Dress Uniform Day
👔 Calendar Reminder: Weekly Dress Uniform Day
October 23, 2026
What: A weekly reminder for all students to arrive on campus in their complete, formal Dress Uniform.
When: Friday, October 23rd.
Why: At Christ the Savior Academy, we believe that our outward appearance can beautifully reflect and support our inward disposition. We intentionally schedule our school liturgies, picture days, and all-school recitation assemblies on Wednesdays whenever possible. Wearing our formal Dress Uniforms on these days provides our students with a tangible, visual reminder that we are entering into something sacred and elevated. Just as we prepare our hearts for prayer, dressing with care helps us cultivate a corporate culture of reverence, attentiveness, and excellence as we stand before God and one another.
How to Prepare:
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👟 Don't Forget PE Shoes! Since we will be in dress uniforms for liturgy and also have PE classes today, please be sure to pack your child's athletic shoes in their backpacks this morning.
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📐 Check the Guide: Please ensure your child has all necessary components of the formal dress uniform clean and ready to go on Tuesday evening (including the correct sweaters, ties, and dress shoes).
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🗓️ Calendar Flexibility: While we always strive to keep these events on Wednesdays, the liturgical calendar occasionally requires adjustments. We will always notify you in advance via ClassDojo if a different day requires Dress Uniforms!
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📌 Current Families: For a quick refresher on the specific dress uniform requirements for each grade level, please refer to the CSA Uniform Guidelines on our Parent Resources page of the CSA website.
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☦️ All-School Divine Liturgy
☦️ All-School Divine Liturgy
October 23, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
What: The first of our monthly school Liturgies, where our 4th–8th grade students sing the liturgy as our cathedral choir, read the Epistle, and our trained Orthodox young men serve in the altar.
Who: All school families, grandparents, godparents, and parishioners are encouraged to attend. We warmly welcome families of all backgrounds, whether Orthodox or not, to experience this beautiful morning with us.
When: Friday, October 23rd at 8:30 AM.
Where: St. George Cathedral.
Why: The Liturgy is the heart of our school life. It is where we lay aside earthly cares to worship together, teaching our students that all true wisdom begins with the fear and love of the Lord.
How to Attend: Visitors are welcome to sit in the nave. As you enter the narthex, please feel free to take a white notebook to help you follow along with the liturgy, if you desire. Of course, you are also welcome to just soak it in! (Note: The Orthodox Church practices closed communion. However, during school liturgies, one of our priests also gives an individual blessing to our non-Orthodox students and visitors.)
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📌 Current Families: Please note the uniform requirements (Dress Uniforms) for this morning in your ClassDojo stories.
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🕊️ Annual Grandparents’ Day Celebration
🕊️ Annual Grandparents’ Day Celebration
October 23, 2026 11:45 am - 1:00 pm
What: A cherished annual tradition where Christ the Savior Academy opens its doors to honor, celebrate, and thank the wonderful grandparents in our students' lives.
Who: Grandparents, godparents, or a cherished family guest of all enrolled CSA students.
When: Friday, October 23rd from 11:45am through lunchtime.
Where: The School Classrooms, Hallways, & St. George Fellowship Hall.
Why: In the classical tradition, we look to the generations before us with deep reverence, gratitude, and respect. Grandparents and godparents are a vital link in passing down wisdom, culture, and faith to our children. This day allows our students to personally express their love and show their guests the beautiful fruits of their daily labors.
What to Expect & How to Participate:
- 🎨 Fine Arts Showcase: Take a stroll through our halls to view a curated display of beautiful, student-created classical artwork.
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🎭 Student Presentation: Gather with us just before lunch for a brief, delightful presentation featuring recitations, poetry, or music prepared especially for our guests.
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🧺 Shared Lunch: Guests are warmly invited to bring a sack lunch or takeout to share a peaceful meal with their students on campus following the presentation.
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📌 Current Families: Space is limited for this special event! A detailed timeline, RSVP link, and parking/arrival instructions will be sent out via ClassDojo. Please ensure you submit your guest count early so our teachers can properly prepare seating and materials for every visitor.
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki (October 26)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki (October 26)
October 26, 2026 - October 30, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: The Holy, Glorious Great Martyr Demetrios the Myrrh-Streamer of Thessaloniki.
When: October 26th
His Story: Saint Demetrios was born to devout Christian parents in Greece during a time of intense Roman persecution. Raised secretly in the faith, he was exceptionally bright, highly educated, and a remarkably skilled leader. Following his father's death, the pagan Emperor Maximian promoted him to high military commander and governor of Thessaloniki, giving him strict orders to hunt down and execute Christians. Instead, Demetrios publicly declared his own faith in Jesus Christ and began converting pagan crowds to the Truth. Outraged, the Emperor had him cast into a dark prison cell under the public baths. While imprisoned, Demetrios was visited by his young friend Nestor, a Christian teenager who had been challenged to fight the Emperor's favorite gladiator—an undefeated barbarian giant named Lyaeus. Nestor asked for Demetrios's blessing to face the giant. Armed with a simple prayer and Demetrios’s blessing, young Nestor entered the stadium and brought down the terrifying giant with a single stroke. Furious at the defeat, the Emperor ordered Nestor beheaded and sent Roman soldiers into the prison to spear Saint Demetrios to death in the year 306. For over 1,600 years, his holy relics have streamed a sweet-smelling, healing myrrh and miraculously defended Thessaloniki from invaders.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
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A New David and Goliath: Young Saint Nestor had to fight a giant gladiator who was much bigger and stronger than him. Just like David in the Bible, Nestor wasn't afraid because he knew God was with him. Have you ever had to face a situation or a fear that felt like a big "giant"? How can a small prayer give us big courage?
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Being a Supportive Friend: Before Nestor went out to fight, he went to his older friend Demetrios for a blessing and words of encouragement. How can we be the kind of friends who lift others up and pray for them when they are facing something hard at school?
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Standing Up for the Truth: Demetrios was a famous, powerful soldier, but he cared much more about telling people about Jesus than being famous. What is the most important thing to you about who you are? Is it what toys you have, or how much you love God?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
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The Source of True Safety: Saint Demetrios was given an elite military title and immense political power by an earthly emperor, yet he immediately risked it all to protect his Christian flock. How do we balance our duty to earthly authorities (like laws, leaders, or cultural institutions) with our supreme allegiance to God? What happens when those two loyalties collide?
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The Power of Blessing: The narrative heavily emphasizes that Nestor did not defeat the barbarian giant by his own combat skills, but through the power of God activated by Saint Demetrios’s blessing. Why does our classical and Orthodox tradition place such massive importance on receiving blessings from our spiritual fathers, priests, and parents? How does humility play a role in victory?
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A Champion Over Calamity: Even after his death, Saint Demetrios has been recorded throughout history as a physical defender of Thessaloniki, delivering the city from plagues and military sieges. What does it mean that the saints do not stop loving or protecting us after they die? How does this alter the way we look at our relationship with our own patron saints?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
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For the Family Bookshelf: Open up your copy of "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach to read the entry on Saint Demetrios on page 38, and look at his classic iconographic depiction as a holy soldier riding a red horse.
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Scriptural Connection: Read 1 Samuel 17 (The story of David and Goliath) and compare David’s words to Goliath with Saint Nestor’s stance against the giant Lyaeus.
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Online Reading: For a complete history of the construction of his grand basilica, the account of his martyrdom, and the historical descriptions of the miracle of the holy streaming myrrh, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
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📌 Teachers will be introducing Saint Demetrios this week as a towering example of Christian courage and brotherhood. Ask your student why Saint Demetrios is historically called a "Myrrh-Streamer"!
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🍗 Hot Lunch Monday Program
🍗 Hot Lunch Monday Program
October 26, 2026 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm
What: Our weekly catering program provides a special, easy hot lunch option for all students who are pre-registered for the semester.
Who: All CSA students who have signed up for the Hot Lunch Monday program and the Parent Volunteer.
When: Every Monday throughout the academic year.
Why: At Christ the Savior Academy, we strive to make the rhythms of the school week both joyful for our students and practical for our busy families. Our Hot Lunch Monday program provides a fun community meal while seamlessly honoring the liturgical seasons of the Church. By serving favorite standard options during regular weeks and shifting to simple, fasting-compliant alternatives during the designated penitential seasons, we help our students learn that fasting can be communal, consistent, and lived out naturally together in the lunchroom.
What is Served & How to Pack:
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🍗 Regular Weeks: Students will enjoy delicious Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets.
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🍏 Nutritious Sides: Because the school provides the main entree, parents are asked to pack healthy, nutritious sides (fruits, vegetables, snacks) to round out their student's lunchbox each Monday.
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📌 Current Families: Please note that this program requires pre-registration at the start of each semester so our coordinators can place accurate bulk orders. If you ever need to verify your child's registration status, check the current fasting schedule, or report an allergy, please email the office directly at office@csawichita.org . To be a parent volunteer for a Hot Lunch Monday, please sign up via ClassDojo for any week that works for you.
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki (October 26)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki (October 26)
October 26, 2026 - October 30, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: The Holy, Glorious Great Martyr Demetrios the Myrrh-Streamer of Thessaloniki.
When: October 26th
His Story: Saint Demetrios was born to devout Christian parents in Greece during a time of intense Roman persecution. Raised secretly in the faith, he was exceptionally bright, highly educated, and a remarkably skilled leader. Following his father's death, the pagan Emperor Maximian promoted him to high military commander and governor of Thessaloniki, giving him strict orders to hunt down and execute Christians. Instead, Demetrios publicly declared his own faith in Jesus Christ and began converting pagan crowds to the Truth. Outraged, the Emperor had him cast into a dark prison cell under the public baths. While imprisoned, Demetrios was visited by his young friend Nestor, a Christian teenager who had been challenged to fight the Emperor's favorite gladiator—an undefeated barbarian giant named Lyaeus. Nestor asked for Demetrios's blessing to face the giant. Armed with a simple prayer and Demetrios’s blessing, young Nestor entered the stadium and brought down the terrifying giant with a single stroke. Furious at the defeat, the Emperor ordered Nestor beheaded and sent Roman soldiers into the prison to spear Saint Demetrios to death in the year 306. For over 1,600 years, his holy relics have streamed a sweet-smelling, healing myrrh and miraculously defended Thessaloniki from invaders.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
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A New David and Goliath: Young Saint Nestor had to fight a giant gladiator who was much bigger and stronger than him. Just like David in the Bible, Nestor wasn't afraid because he knew God was with him. Have you ever had to face a situation or a fear that felt like a big "giant"? How can a small prayer give us big courage?
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Being a Supportive Friend: Before Nestor went out to fight, he went to his older friend Demetrios for a blessing and words of encouragement. How can we be the kind of friends who lift others up and pray for them when they are facing something hard at school?
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Standing Up for the Truth: Demetrios was a famous, powerful soldier, but he cared much more about telling people about Jesus than being famous. What is the most important thing to you about who you are? Is it what toys you have, or how much you love God?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
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The Source of True Safety: Saint Demetrios was given an elite military title and immense political power by an earthly emperor, yet he immediately risked it all to protect his Christian flock. How do we balance our duty to earthly authorities (like laws, leaders, or cultural institutions) with our supreme allegiance to God? What happens when those two loyalties collide?
-
The Power of Blessing: The narrative heavily emphasizes that Nestor did not defeat the barbarian giant by his own combat skills, but through the power of God activated by Saint Demetrios’s blessing. Why does our classical and Orthodox tradition place such massive importance on receiving blessings from our spiritual fathers, priests, and parents? How does humility play a role in victory?
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A Champion Over Calamity: Even after his death, Saint Demetrios has been recorded throughout history as a physical defender of Thessaloniki, delivering the city from plagues and military sieges. What does it mean that the saints do not stop loving or protecting us after they die? How does this alter the way we look at our relationship with our own patron saints?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Open up your copy of "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach to read the entry on Saint Demetrios on page 38, and look at his classic iconographic depiction as a holy soldier riding a red horse.
-
Scriptural Connection: Read 1 Samuel 17 (The story of David and Goliath) and compare David’s words to Goliath with Saint Nestor’s stance against the giant Lyaeus.
-
Online Reading: For a complete history of the construction of his grand basilica, the account of his martyrdom, and the historical descriptions of the miracle of the holy streaming myrrh, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
-------
📌 Teachers will be introducing Saint Demetrios this week as a towering example of Christian courage and brotherhood. Ask your student why Saint Demetrios is historically called a "Myrrh-Streamer"!
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28
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki (October 26)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki (October 26)
October 26, 2026 - October 30, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: The Holy, Glorious Great Martyr Demetrios the Myrrh-Streamer of Thessaloniki.
When: October 26th
His Story: Saint Demetrios was born to devout Christian parents in Greece during a time of intense Roman persecution. Raised secretly in the faith, he was exceptionally bright, highly educated, and a remarkably skilled leader. Following his father's death, the pagan Emperor Maximian promoted him to high military commander and governor of Thessaloniki, giving him strict orders to hunt down and execute Christians. Instead, Demetrios publicly declared his own faith in Jesus Christ and began converting pagan crowds to the Truth. Outraged, the Emperor had him cast into a dark prison cell under the public baths. While imprisoned, Demetrios was visited by his young friend Nestor, a Christian teenager who had been challenged to fight the Emperor's favorite gladiator—an undefeated barbarian giant named Lyaeus. Nestor asked for Demetrios's blessing to face the giant. Armed with a simple prayer and Demetrios’s blessing, young Nestor entered the stadium and brought down the terrifying giant with a single stroke. Furious at the defeat, the Emperor ordered Nestor beheaded and sent Roman soldiers into the prison to spear Saint Demetrios to death in the year 306. For over 1,600 years, his holy relics have streamed a sweet-smelling, healing myrrh and miraculously defended Thessaloniki from invaders.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
A New David and Goliath: Young Saint Nestor had to fight a giant gladiator who was much bigger and stronger than him. Just like David in the Bible, Nestor wasn't afraid because he knew God was with him. Have you ever had to face a situation or a fear that felt like a big "giant"? How can a small prayer give us big courage?
-
Being a Supportive Friend: Before Nestor went out to fight, he went to his older friend Demetrios for a blessing and words of encouragement. How can we be the kind of friends who lift others up and pray for them when they are facing something hard at school?
-
Standing Up for the Truth: Demetrios was a famous, powerful soldier, but he cared much more about telling people about Jesus than being famous. What is the most important thing to you about who you are? Is it what toys you have, or how much you love God?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
The Source of True Safety: Saint Demetrios was given an elite military title and immense political power by an earthly emperor, yet he immediately risked it all to protect his Christian flock. How do we balance our duty to earthly authorities (like laws, leaders, or cultural institutions) with our supreme allegiance to God? What happens when those two loyalties collide?
-
The Power of Blessing: The narrative heavily emphasizes that Nestor did not defeat the barbarian giant by his own combat skills, but through the power of God activated by Saint Demetrios’s blessing. Why does our classical and Orthodox tradition place such massive importance on receiving blessings from our spiritual fathers, priests, and parents? How does humility play a role in victory?
-
A Champion Over Calamity: Even after his death, Saint Demetrios has been recorded throughout history as a physical defender of Thessaloniki, delivering the city from plagues and military sieges. What does it mean that the saints do not stop loving or protecting us after they die? How does this alter the way we look at our relationship with our own patron saints?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Open up your copy of "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach to read the entry on Saint Demetrios on page 38, and look at his classic iconographic depiction as a holy soldier riding a red horse.
-
Scriptural Connection: Read 1 Samuel 17 (The story of David and Goliath) and compare David’s words to Goliath with Saint Nestor’s stance against the giant Lyaeus.
-
Online Reading: For a complete history of the construction of his grand basilica, the account of his martyrdom, and the historical descriptions of the miracle of the holy streaming myrrh, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
-------
📌 Teachers will be introducing Saint Demetrios this week as a towering example of Christian courage and brotherhood. Ask your student why Saint Demetrios is historically called a "Myrrh-Streamer"!
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👔 Calendar Reminder: Weekly Dress Uniform Day
👔 Calendar Reminder: Weekly Dress Uniform Day
October 28, 2026
What: A weekly reminder for all students to arrive on campus in their complete, formal Dress Uniform.
When: Every Wednesday (unless otherwise noted for special events).
Why: At Christ the Savior Academy, we believe that our outward appearance can beautifully reflect and support our inward disposition. We intentionally schedule our school liturgies, picture days, and all-school recitation assemblies on Wednesdays whenever possible. Wearing our formal Dress Uniforms on these days provides our students with a tangible, visual reminder that we are entering into something sacred and elevated. Just as we prepare our hearts for prayer, dressing with care helps us cultivate a corporate culture of reverence, attentiveness, and excellence as we stand before God and one another.
How to Prepare:
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📐 Check the Guide: Please ensure your child has all necessary components of the formal dress uniform clean and ready to go on Tuesday evening (including the correct sweaters, ties, and dress shoes).
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🗓️ Calendar Flexibility: While we always strive to keep these events on Wednesdays, the liturgical calendar occasionally requires adjustments. We will always notify you in advance via ClassDojo if a different day requires Dress Uniforms!
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📌 Current Families: For a quick refresher on the specific dress uniform requirements for each grade level, please refer to the CSA Uniform Guidelines on our Parent Resources page of the CSA website.
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki (October 26)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki (October 26)
October 26, 2026 - October 30, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: The Holy, Glorious Great Martyr Demetrios the Myrrh-Streamer of Thessaloniki.
When: October 26th
His Story: Saint Demetrios was born to devout Christian parents in Greece during a time of intense Roman persecution. Raised secretly in the faith, he was exceptionally bright, highly educated, and a remarkably skilled leader. Following his father's death, the pagan Emperor Maximian promoted him to high military commander and governor of Thessaloniki, giving him strict orders to hunt down and execute Christians. Instead, Demetrios publicly declared his own faith in Jesus Christ and began converting pagan crowds to the Truth. Outraged, the Emperor had him cast into a dark prison cell under the public baths. While imprisoned, Demetrios was visited by his young friend Nestor, a Christian teenager who had been challenged to fight the Emperor's favorite gladiator—an undefeated barbarian giant named Lyaeus. Nestor asked for Demetrios's blessing to face the giant. Armed with a simple prayer and Demetrios’s blessing, young Nestor entered the stadium and brought down the terrifying giant with a single stroke. Furious at the defeat, the Emperor ordered Nestor beheaded and sent Roman soldiers into the prison to spear Saint Demetrios to death in the year 306. For over 1,600 years, his holy relics have streamed a sweet-smelling, healing myrrh and miraculously defended Thessaloniki from invaders.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
A New David and Goliath: Young Saint Nestor had to fight a giant gladiator who was much bigger and stronger than him. Just like David in the Bible, Nestor wasn't afraid because he knew God was with him. Have you ever had to face a situation or a fear that felt like a big "giant"? How can a small prayer give us big courage?
-
Being a Supportive Friend: Before Nestor went out to fight, he went to his older friend Demetrios for a blessing and words of encouragement. How can we be the kind of friends who lift others up and pray for them when they are facing something hard at school?
-
Standing Up for the Truth: Demetrios was a famous, powerful soldier, but he cared much more about telling people about Jesus than being famous. What is the most important thing to you about who you are? Is it what toys you have, or how much you love God?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
The Source of True Safety: Saint Demetrios was given an elite military title and immense political power by an earthly emperor, yet he immediately risked it all to protect his Christian flock. How do we balance our duty to earthly authorities (like laws, leaders, or cultural institutions) with our supreme allegiance to God? What happens when those two loyalties collide?
-
The Power of Blessing: The narrative heavily emphasizes that Nestor did not defeat the barbarian giant by his own combat skills, but through the power of God activated by Saint Demetrios’s blessing. Why does our classical and Orthodox tradition place such massive importance on receiving blessings from our spiritual fathers, priests, and parents? How does humility play a role in victory?
-
A Champion Over Calamity: Even after his death, Saint Demetrios has been recorded throughout history as a physical defender of Thessaloniki, delivering the city from plagues and military sieges. What does it mean that the saints do not stop loving or protecting us after they die? How does this alter the way we look at our relationship with our own patron saints?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Open up your copy of "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach to read the entry on Saint Demetrios on page 38, and look at his classic iconographic depiction as a holy soldier riding a red horse.
-
Scriptural Connection: Read 1 Samuel 17 (The story of David and Goliath) and compare David’s words to Goliath with Saint Nestor’s stance against the giant Lyaeus.
-
Online Reading: For a complete history of the construction of his grand basilica, the account of his martyrdom, and the historical descriptions of the miracle of the holy streaming myrrh, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
-------
📌 Teachers will be introducing Saint Demetrios this week as a towering example of Christian courage and brotherhood. Ask your student why Saint Demetrios is historically called a "Myrrh-Streamer"!
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30
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📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki (October 26)
📜 Saint of the Week: Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki (October 26)
October 26, 2026 - October 30, 2026
✨ Cultivating Holy Companions on our Classical Journey
Who: The Holy, Glorious Great Martyr Demetrios the Myrrh-Streamer of Thessaloniki.
When: October 26th
His Story: Saint Demetrios was born to devout Christian parents in Greece during a time of intense Roman persecution. Raised secretly in the faith, he was exceptionally bright, highly educated, and a remarkably skilled leader. Following his father's death, the pagan Emperor Maximian promoted him to high military commander and governor of Thessaloniki, giving him strict orders to hunt down and execute Christians. Instead, Demetrios publicly declared his own faith in Jesus Christ and began converting pagan crowds to the Truth. Outraged, the Emperor had him cast into a dark prison cell under the public baths. While imprisoned, Demetrios was visited by his young friend Nestor, a Christian teenager who had been challenged to fight the Emperor's favorite gladiator—an undefeated barbarian giant named Lyaeus. Nestor asked for Demetrios's blessing to face the giant. Armed with a simple prayer and Demetrios’s blessing, young Nestor entered the stadium and brought down the terrifying giant with a single stroke. Furious at the defeat, the Emperor ordered Nestor beheaded and sent Roman soldiers into the prison to spear Saint Demetrios to death in the year 306. For over 1,600 years, his holy relics have streamed a sweet-smelling, healing myrrh and miraculously defended Thessaloniki from invaders.
🧠 Socratic Discussion Prompts for the Dinner Table:At CSA, we use open-ended questions to spark meaningful reflection. Choose the tier below that fits your child's age group for a dinner table conversation this week:
🧸 Lower Elementary (Pre-K – 3rd Grade):
-
A New David and Goliath: Young Saint Nestor had to fight a giant gladiator who was much bigger and stronger than him. Just like David in the Bible, Nestor wasn't afraid because he knew God was with him. Have you ever had to face a situation or a fear that felt like a big "giant"? How can a small prayer give us big courage?
-
Being a Supportive Friend: Before Nestor went out to fight, he went to his older friend Demetrios for a blessing and words of encouragement. How can we be the kind of friends who lift others up and pray for them when they are facing something hard at school?
-
Standing Up for the Truth: Demetrios was a famous, powerful soldier, but he cared much more about telling people about Jesus than being famous. What is the most important thing to you about who you are? Is it what toys you have, or how much you love God?
⚔️ Upper Elementary & Middle School (4th – 8th Grade):
-
The Source of True Safety: Saint Demetrios was given an elite military title and immense political power by an earthly emperor, yet he immediately risked it all to protect his Christian flock. How do we balance our duty to earthly authorities (like laws, leaders, or cultural institutions) with our supreme allegiance to God? What happens when those two loyalties collide?
-
The Power of Blessing: The narrative heavily emphasizes that Nestor did not defeat the barbarian giant by his own combat skills, but through the power of God activated by Saint Demetrios’s blessing. Why does our classical and Orthodox tradition place such massive importance on receiving blessings from our spiritual fathers, priests, and parents? How does humility play a role in victory?
-
A Champion Over Calamity: Even after his death, Saint Demetrios has been recorded throughout history as a physical defender of Thessaloniki, delivering the city from plagues and military sieges. What does it mean that the saints do not stop loving or protecting us after they die? How does this alter the way we look at our relationship with our own patron saints?
📚 Additional Resources for Further Learning:
-
For the Family Bookshelf: Open up your copy of "101 Orthodox Saints" by Sarah Wright & Alexandra Schmalzbach to read the entry on Saint Demetrios on page 38, and look at his classic iconographic depiction as a holy soldier riding a red horse.
-
Scriptural Connection: Read 1 Samuel 17 (The story of David and Goliath) and compare David’s words to Goliath with Saint Nestor’s stance against the giant Lyaeus.
-
Online Reading: For a complete history of the construction of his grand basilica, the account of his martyrdom, and the historical descriptions of the miracle of the holy streaming myrrh, visit the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Life of the Saints Guide.
-------
📌 Teachers will be introducing Saint Demetrios this week as a towering example of Christian courage and brotherhood. Ask your student why Saint Demetrios is historically called a "Myrrh-Streamer"!
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