Volume 2 | Issue 17
CELEBRATE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK
Sunday, Jan. 25
- CELEBRATING YOUR PARISH
- St. Pius X Open House (11am - 1pm)
- Adult Basketball (Evening) - Click to join Signal group here if interested
Monday, Jan. 26
- CELEBRATING YOUR COMMUNITY - PAJAMA DAY (NO SKIN TIGHT ONESIES)
- PSA Anti-Bullying Assembly (Afternoon)
- Spanish Club Session A (After School)
- Homework Club (After School)
- Basketball Practices (Evening)
Tuesday, Jan. 27
- CELEBRATING YOUR STUDENTS - JERSEY DAY
- Knights Pep Rally (Afternoon)
- Beginner & Intermediate Band Practice (During School)
- Advanced Band Practice (After School)
- Guitar Club (After School)
- Basketball Practice (After School & Evening)
Wednesday, Jan. 28
- CELEBRATING YOUR NATION - RED, WHITE AND BLUE DAY
- Student Mass - (During School)
- Chess Club (Lunch/Recess)
- Homework Club (After School)
- Intermediate Band Practice (After School)
- Basketball Practice (After School & Evening)
- PSA Culver's (Lombard) Night - Come see teachers and staff working! (5-8pm)
- Gala Planning Meeting - Parish Office (7pm)
Thursday, Jan. 29
- CELEBRATING VOCATIONS - SPIRIT WEAR DAY
- Student Council to greet and host fellowship 8:30am mass
- 8th Grade Shakespeare Theater Field Trip (Morning)
- Advanced Spanish (Recess)
- Spanish Club Session B (After School)
- Knight Crew Practice (After School)
- Basketball Practice (Evening)
Friday, Jan. 30
- CELEBRATING FACULTY, STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS - BREAK THE RULES DAY
- Parent Donut Day (Dropoff)
- Game Day Activities (During School)
- Advanced Band Practice (During School)
- Beginner Band Practice 4th & 5th Grade (After School)
- 8th Grade Confirmation Retreat (Evening)
Saturday, Jan. 31
- CELEBRATING FAMILIES - FAMILY NIGHT OUT AT WOLVES GAME
- Home Basketball Games (All Day)
The Knight's Watch
Catholic Schools' Week
There’s a certain feeling that settles over our halls during Catholic Schools Week. It’s more than school spirit or themed days. It’s a quiet confidence — the kind that comes from knowing why we’re here and who we are forming.
Catholic education has never been about convenience. If we’re honest, it’s rarely the easiest path. It requires intention. Commitment. And yes, for many families, a real and tangible financial sacrifice. That sacrifice deserves to be acknowledged — and respected.
Parents who choose Catholic education aren’t simply selecting a school; they are making a statement about priorities. They are choosing faith alongside academics. Character alongside achievement. Formation alongside information. In a world that often measures success by outcomes alone, Catholic schools insist on something deeper: who your child becomes matters just as much as what they know.
Catholic education has never been about convenience. If we’re honest, it’s rarely the easiest path. It requires intention. Commitment. And yes, for many families, a real and tangible financial sacrifice. That sacrifice deserves to be acknowledged — and respected.
Parents who choose Catholic education aren’t simply selecting a school; they are making a statement about priorities. They are choosing faith alongside academics. Character alongside achievement. Formation alongside information. In a world that often measures success by outcomes alone, Catholic schools insist on something deeper: who your child becomes matters just as much as what they know.
Our classrooms teach math, science, and literature — but they also teach empathy, discipline, service, and responsibility. Our students pray together, serve together, fail and grow together. They learn that their gifts are not just for themselves, but for the good of others. That is an education that lasts far beyond graduation.
The financial sacrifice families make is not overlooked. It is, in many ways, a quiet act of faith. A belief that investing in a child’s moral and spiritual foundation is worth more than any short-term savings. Parents are saying, “This matters.” And they are right.
Catholic Schools Week gives us a chance to pause and say thank you — to parents who stretch budgets, juggle priorities, and trust us with what matters most. It reminds us that the value of Catholic education cannot be reduced to a line item. Its return is seen years later, in confident young adults grounded in faith, service, and purpose.
That is a choice worth celebrating.
That is a sacrifice worth honoring.
And that is why being a Knight means something more.
— The Mighty Knight
Catholic Schools Weeks
Sun, Jan. 25 - Sat. Jan. 31
The PSA and SPX Student Council have partnered to create a thoughtful and energetic plan for Catholic Schools Week, celebrating all that makes St. Pius X so special. From January 25–31, 2026, their collaboration will highlight our school’s faith-filled culture, strong sense of community, and commitment to excellence through meaningful activities that engage students, families, and parishioners.
Guided by the national theme Catholic Schools: United in Faith and Community, their plan reflects the heart of Catholic education—bringing people together to celebrate learning, service, and shared values—while proudly showcasing what makes St. Pius X a place worth discovering and celebrating.
Of Interest to our 7th Grade Families
Tracking Volunteer Hours at St. Pius X
Dear St. Pius X Parish Families,
As members of the St. Pius X Catholic Community—whether you are connected through the school, the parish, or both—we ask that all adult members log a minimum of 6 hours of volunteer service throughout the year. This shared commitment strengthens our mission, builds community, and ensures that the many programs and ministries of St. Pius X continue to thrive.
To make this easier and more organized, we are centralizing both volunteer opportunities and hour tracking within MobileServe. Within the platform, you will find a digital bulletin board of service opportunities, making it simple to see where help is needed and how you can get involved.
To give this aspect of our community a name and a home, we are officially introducing the St. Pius X Service Society. If opportunities are ever needed or questions arise regarding service expectations, you may reach out directly at servicesociety@stpiuslombard.org.
We will be using MobileServe to track all volunteer hours in one convenient location. Whether your service takes place through school events, athletics, parish ministries, or community outreach, all hours should be logged in MobileServe.
Attached is the MobileServe Getting Started Guide, which walks you through:
- Downloading the app
- Creating your account
- Joining the St. Pius X Adult Volunteers group
- Logging your hours accurately
Attachment: MobileServe Getting Started Guide for St. Pius X Adult Hours
Thank you for the many ways you support St. Pius X through service. Your time and generosity are a vital part of who we are as a Catholic community.
With gratitude,
Fr. Matt Nathan
Knightly News Feature:
Our Gala Site Is LIVE!
One of the most anticipated events of the St. Pius X school year is fast approaching—our Gala & Fundraiser Auction, a night where community, celebration, and purpose come together in true Knightly fashion.
The Gala is more than an evening out. It is a cornerstone event that directly supports the mission of St. Pius X Parish School, helping us bridge the gap between tuition and the true cost of providing a faith-filled, academically excellent education. From supporting programs and resources to investing in our students and staff, every bid placed and every paddle raised strengthens the future of our Knights.
As always, the Auction will feature a curated lineup of experiences, outings, and one-of-a-kind packages designed to bring families and friends together. And to kick things off in a big way, one item is already stealing the spotlight.
A True Knight at the Races
And they’re off! One of the most entertaining feature activities at this year’s St. Pius X Gala and Fundraiser Auction will be our Kentucky Derby–style horse racing experience.
Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy three thrilling races, each featuring between 18 and 20 horses. Every race will include official post positions and odds, giving guests the chance to study the field, trust their instincts, and place their bets.
Here’s how it works: each bid on a horse is a flat $20, and each horse is capped at a maximum of 10 bids. Once the race begins, it’s all about cheering your horse down the stretch and hoping they cross the finish line first.
Winners of each race will be rewarded in true Kentucky fashion with a custom, St. Pius X–branded bottle of Maker's Mark Bourbon — a perfect keepsake and a great way to toast a winning pick.
Fast-paced, high-energy, and full of friendly competition, the Gala races are sure to be a highlight of the night. Whether you’re feeling lucky or just in it for the fun, this is one feature you won’t want to miss.
This week's features:
Horseshoe Tournament - Still Looking for Teams!
We are also offering several pre-auction items that are a great way to get the excitement started early. One fan favorite is the Horseshoe Tournament, which combines friendly competition with a great cause.
Enter the Horseshoe Tournament here:
http://e.givesmart.com/events/KD8/page/horseraces/
http://e.givesmart.com/events/KD8/page/horseraces/
Sanibel Island Getaway
Escape to paradise with one of this year’s most sought-after auction items—a Sanibel Island beachfront getaway. Enjoy a full week, March 13–20, 2027, at the Sanibel Beach Club, where breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico set the tone for relaxation. This beautiful two-bedroom, two-bath condo comfortably sleeps six and features a fully equipped kitchen, in-unit washer and dryer, wireless internet, and covered parking. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a peaceful retreat with friends, this sun-soaked island escape offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and coastal charm—all while supporting the mission of St. Pius X Parish School.
Our Gala plays a vital role in helping bridge the gap between tuition revenue and the true operating cost of our school. This year, we aim to raise more than $100,000 in net revenue to support our teachers, programs, and students. Your participation—whether through pre-sale items, attending the Gala, sponsoring, or donating—makes an enormous impact.
Visit the Gala site today to explore, bid, and purchase early items. Let’s kick off Gala season strong and make this a Derby night to remember!
Battle of the Books:
Team Up and Get Reading
St. Pius X students in grades 3–8 are invited to participate in Battle of the Books, an exciting reading incentive program that combines teamwork, competition, and a love of literature.
Students form their own teams of 6–8 members, grouped by grade level, choose a creative team name, and select a parent volunteer to serve as their coach. Teams work together to divide and read a diverse list of books, preparing through group meetings leading up to the competition.
Team roster forms must be completed and returned to the school office by Friday, January 30, 2026. This allows teams to receive their official book lists and begin preparing for the event.
The Battle of the Books competition will take place on May 1 from 3:15–5:00pm in the Social Center, featuring head-to-head rounds where teams answer questions based on the books they’ve read.
Battle of the Books is a fun and meaningful way for students to build reading skills, collaboration, and confidence. We look forward to seeing our Knights team up and dive into great books this spring.
Dates to Remember
2026-27 School Year is Registration is
OPEN. Register Now!
Registration Fees increase by $50 February 1st!
(click to go to FACTS Family Portal)
Financial Aid Information from the
Diocese of Joliet Catholic Schools Office
Additional Upcoming Events
Knights of Columbus
Free Throw Contest
(Click Graphic to R.S.V.P.)
Battle of the Books is Back!
Calling all readers! Battle of the Books is a fun academic competition where students work together to answer questions based on a selected list of books—building comprehension, teamwork, and a love of reading along the way. Teams consist of 8 students and a parent coach.
Competition Date: May 1
Time: 3:15–5:00 PM
Location: Social Center
Time: 3:15–5:00 PM
Location: Social Center
Click here for team information: Sign-ups are due by next week!
Please be sure all completed forms are turned in to the Main Office.
Please be sure all completed forms are turned in to the Main Office.
Questions? Contact psa@stpiuslombard.org
Catholic Schools Week:
Dine Out for St. Pius at Culver’s! Mark your calendars! Join us on Wednesday, January 28th, from 5:00–8:00 pm at the Lombard Culver’s (1155 S. Main St.). Come say hi to your favorite St. Pius teachers and staff, who will be running food to your car and tables! Best of all, 20% of all sales will be donated directly back to our school. See you there for ButterBurgers and Custard!
PSA will be treating parents to Donut Day on Friday, January 30, during morning drop-off (7:50–8:30 AM). Grab a donut, and start your day on a sweet note!
Chicago Wolves Family Night
St. Pius X families and friends are invited to a Chicago Wolves hockey game on Saturday, January 31, at 7:00 PM at Allstate Arena. Join us for an exciting night of school spirit and fun—tickets can be purchased here
St. Pius X families and friends are invited to a Chicago Wolves hockey game on Saturday, January 31, at 7:00 PM at Allstate Arena. Join us for an exciting night of school spirit and fun—tickets can be purchased here
On Monday evening, the SPX community came together for our inaugural Dads Club School Spirit Event, centered around watching the Miami–Indiana championship game. The night was hosted at Manny’s Ale House in Elmhurst, a phenomenal partner and gracious supporter of the Dads Club.
The event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Herber’s Insurance (Jason Herbers), Cozzi Recycling (Greg Cozzi), and BetterWorld Technology (Chris Jordan). Additional raffle prizes were donated by the McGuire Family, the Hofestede Family, and the Gamboa Family—who also created custom giveaway items through Gamboa Creations—as well as Crescendo Balloons (Maureen Chiappetta). Attendees may have also met new SPX parent Cody Golz, who volunteered his time helping work the door throughout the evening.
The event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Herber’s Insurance (Jason Herbers), Cozzi Recycling (Greg Cozzi), and BetterWorld Technology (Chris Jordan). Additional raffle prizes were donated by the McGuire Family, the Hofestede Family, and the Gamboa Family—who also created custom giveaway items through Gamboa Creations—as well as Crescendo Balloons (Maureen Chiappetta). Attendees may have also met new SPX parent Cody Golz, who volunteered his time helping work the door throughout the evening.
Thanks to the incredible support and school spirit of our community, the event grossed $2,500 in raised funds. We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended, sponsored, donated, and volunteered. Special shoutout to Mrs. Pauley, Mrs. Himmes, Mr. Ramano, and Fr. Matt for attending.
Please note that the Dads Club will not meet in February, as all efforts are focused on supporting the annual gala, “A Knight at the Races.” We will reconvene on March 12 at our usual time of 8:00 PM at Manny’s Ale House.
In the meantime, keep the momentum going by participating in SPX Super Bowl Squares, which will go live on GiveSmart at 7:00 PM today:
http://e.givesmart.com/events/Nha
http://e.givesmart.com/events/Nha
Thank you again for making this inaugural event such a success—we look forward to many more.If you are interested in learning more about the club, please contact 773-355-0753 or dadsclub@stpiuslombard.org
Basketball Season Update
St. Pius X Knights Basketball continues to compete with energy and determination across all grade levels as league play moves forward.
The Boys 7B Knights remain the standard-bearer, sitting undefeated at 5–0 and holding 1st place in their division. Close behind, the Boys 7A team has put together an impressive 4–1 record, currently 3rd overall, while the Boys 8B Knights are firmly in the mix at 5–2, showcasing strong offensive balance and consistency.
The Boys 5A and 6A teams are battling at the .500 mark, each at 3–3, staying competitive in tightly contested divisions. The Boys 8A team continues to face a challenging slate, gaining valuable experience and building toward future success.
On the girls’ side, the Girls 8A Knights are finding momentum with a 2–4 record, including several close games, while the Girls 6A and 6B teams continue to grow and compete each night out. The Girls 5A and 7A teams are showing resilience, improvement, and great effort as they take on tough league opponents.
Across the program, Knights teams are learning, growing, and representing St. Pius X with pride. As the season progresses, the focus remains on development, teamwork, and finishing strong.
Strength in Faith. Pride in Play.
The Boys 7B Knights remain the standard-bearer, sitting undefeated at 5–0 and holding 1st place in their division. Close behind, the Boys 7A team has put together an impressive 4–1 record, currently 3rd overall, while the Boys 8B Knights are firmly in the mix at 5–2, showcasing strong offensive balance and consistency.
The Boys 5A and 6A teams are battling at the .500 mark, each at 3–3, staying competitive in tightly contested divisions. The Boys 8A team continues to face a challenging slate, gaining valuable experience and building toward future success.
On the girls’ side, the Girls 8A Knights are finding momentum with a 2–4 record, including several close games, while the Girls 6A and 6B teams continue to grow and compete each night out. The Girls 5A and 7A teams are showing resilience, improvement, and great effort as they take on tough league opponents.
Across the program, Knights teams are learning, growing, and representing St. Pius X with pride. As the season progresses, the focus remains on development, teamwork, and finishing strong.
Strength in Faith. Pride in Play.
Youth Ministry is Alive and Thriving at SPX!
Youth ministry, you might ask? What exactly IS youth ministry? Youth ministry offers a safe space for teens in our parish to come & gather to learn more about our Catholic faith. Is it like religion class? No, not exactly. The teens develop fellowship, are openly encouraged to ask questions about our faith, dig a little deeper into Catholicism, and have a new outlet to hang out in. They will learn more about who they are, their relationship with God, and gain faith encounters and experiences they may otherwise miss out on. Give YM a try - ya never know what God has planned for YOU!
Contact Gina at gwiedman@spxlombard.org to find out more.
