Volume 2 | Issue 29
Sunday, Apr. 26
- Full Choir at Sunday Mass - Arrive at 9:30am
- Art Fair & Ice Cream Social - See PSA section below
- Adult Basketball - Click to join Signal group here if interested
Monday, Apr. 27
- Sky Center Karate enrichment activity (After School)
- SPX Athletics - DL Team Practice (Afternoon)
- SPX Athletics - SPL Team Track & Field Warrior Middle School Invitational Meet (Afternoon at Willowbrook HS)
- Homework Club (After School)
Tuesday, Apr. 28
- Beginner & Intermediate Band Practice (During School)
- iCook Enrichment Group (After School)
- Advanced Band Practice (After School)
- SPX Athletics - SPL Team Track & Field Practice (Evening)
- Sky Center Karate enrichment activity (After School)
- Homework Club (After School)
- Intermediate Band Practice (After School)
- 1st Holy Communion Practice (Evening)
- SPX Athletics - SPL and Dev Team Track & Field Practice (Evening)
Thursday, Apr. 30
- Amigos Conversational Spanish Club - Optional for Grades 6-8 (Recess)
- Bricks for Kidz Enrichment Group (After School)
- 1st Holy Communion Practice (Evening)
- SPX Athletics - Track & Field SPL Practice (Evening)
Friday, May 1
- PIZZA FUN LUNCH - Click here to order
- Advanced Band Practice (During School)
- Battle of the Books (After School)
- Beginner Band Practice (After School)
Saturday, May 2
- First Holy Communion (10am and 1pm)
- SPX Athletics Track & Field SPL Team Championship Meet
The Knight's Watch
More Than Words
It’s easy to say the right thing. “I’ll do better.” “I’ve got this.” “I care.” Words come quickly—they always have. But life has a way of testing whether those words actually mean something.
There’s a real difference between saying something and living it. You see it play out every day. A student talks about working hard but cuts corners when things get difficult. A teammate promises effort but fades when adversity hits. A parent wants the best for their child but struggles to slow down and be fully present. None of this comes from a bad place—it comes from being human. Because doing the right thing consistently is far more challenging than saying it once in a good moment.
It’s easy to say the right thing. “I’ll do better.” “I’ve got this.” “I care.” Words come quickly—they always have. But life has a way of testing whether those words actually mean something.
There’s a real difference between saying something and living it. You see it play out every day. A student talks about working hard but cuts corners when things get difficult. A teammate promises effort but fades when adversity hits. A parent wants the best for their child but struggles to slow down and be fully present. None of this comes from a bad place—it comes from being human. Because doing the right thing consistently is far more challenging than saying it once in a good moment.
What truly defines a person isn’t what they say at their best, but what they choose in the quiet, ordinary moments. It’s the decision to be patient when you’re tired, to finish what you started when no one is watching, to take ownership of a mistake instead of explaining it away, and to choose effort when it would be easier not to. That’s where character is built. That’s where belief becomes real.
The good news is that getting it wrong isn’t the end of the story. Everyone has moments they wish they could take back. Everyone has said one thing and done another. But those moments don’t define you—what happens next does. Do you lean in or pull away? Do you try again or settle for excuses? Do you let failure stop you, or do you allow it to shape you?
Growth doesn’t come from getting everything right. It comes from staying in it—especially when it’s hard. Over time, it’s not the big declarations that reveal who we are; it’s the steady pattern of our actions. Consistency, effort, and follow-through tell the real story.
So this week, keep it simple. Say less, and do more. Aim to be the kind of person whose actions don’t need explanation, because they speak clearly on their own. Not perfect—just real. And in the end, that’s more than enough.
-The Mighty Knight
The good news is that getting it wrong isn’t the end of the story. Everyone has moments they wish they could take back. Everyone has said one thing and done another. But those moments don’t define you—what happens next does. Do you lean in or pull away? Do you try again or settle for excuses? Do you let failure stop you, or do you allow it to shape you?
Growth doesn’t come from getting everything right. It comes from staying in it—especially when it’s hard. Over time, it’s not the big declarations that reveal who we are; it’s the steady pattern of our actions. Consistency, effort, and follow-through tell the real story.
So this week, keep it simple. Say less, and do more. Aim to be the kind of person whose actions don’t need explanation, because they speak clearly on their own. Not perfect—just real. And in the end, that’s more than enough.
-The Mighty Knight
Week in Photos – The Moments That Matter
This week at St. Pius X was full of the kind of moments that quietly define who we are.
Preschool’s Wacky Outfit Day gave us a special snapshot—Miss Geneva sharing a joyful moment with her middle school daughter. It was simple, genuine, and a perfect reflection of the family feel of our community. Our preschoolers also brought confidence and color to their Fashion Show, showing that even our youngest students are learning to shine.
Across campus, Mrs. Damitz’s kindergarten class toured the church, learning the meaning behind the sacred spaces they see each week.
This week at St. Pius X was full of the kind of moments that quietly define who we are.
Preschool’s Wacky Outfit Day gave us a special snapshot—Miss Geneva sharing a joyful moment with her middle school daughter. It was simple, genuine, and a perfect reflection of the family feel of our community. Our preschoolers also brought confidence and color to their Fashion Show, showing that even our youngest students are learning to shine.
Across campus, Mrs. Damitz’s kindergarten class toured the church, learning the meaning behind the sacred spaces they see each week.
Beginner Band rehearsals are underway as well, with students embracing the challenge of learning something new—one note at a time.
Andrew Gillespie stepped into leadership as “Admin for the Day,” helping keep things running and experiencing school from a new perspective. Meanwhile, middle school students added some energy in PE with salsa dancing—and if you take a look, there are even a few videos mixed in capturing those moves in action.
And one moment that won’t soon be forgotten—4th grader Richie Christiansen’s police escort to school, followed by a visit from Villa Park Officer Joe to Mrs. Igoe’s Pre-4 class, connecting our students with those who serve the community.
It was a week of joy, growth, and connection—exactly what St. Pius X is all about.
Andrew Gillespie stepped into leadership as “Admin for the Day,” helping keep things running and experiencing school from a new perspective. Meanwhile, middle school students added some energy in PE with salsa dancing—and if you take a look, there are even a few videos mixed in capturing those moves in action.
And one moment that won’t soon be forgotten—4th grader Richie Christiansen’s police escort to school, followed by a visit from Villa Park Officer Joe to Mrs. Igoe’s Pre-4 class, connecting our students with those who serve the community.
It was a week of joy, growth, and connection—exactly what St. Pius X is all about.
Current Families Register Now!
2026-27 School Year Registration is OPEN.
(click to go to FACTS Family Portal)
Frances and John Schweihs Catholic Education Scholarship
2026–2027 School Year
Frances and John Schweihs were devoted, long-time parishioners of St. Alexander Parish who generously served in many ministries. Frances was a graduate of St. Alexander School (Class of 1930), and their commitment to Catholic education continued through their family—each of their six children, as well as three grandchildren, also graduated from St. Alexander School.
In honor of their legacy, the Frances and John Schweihs Catholic Education Scholarship is awarded annually to support families seeking a strong Catholic education for their children. This scholarship reflects the sacrifices Fran and John made for their own family and continues their mission of making Catholic education accessible to others. Today, their family extends this opportunity to parish families of both St. Alexander and St. Pius X.
One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded for the 2026–2027 school year. In addition to the scholarship application, families must also apply for financial aid through FACTS Management as part of the Diocese of Joliet process: https://factsmgt.com/
The application is below and should be returned to the School or Parish Office upon completion.
We encourage all eligible families to apply and take advantage of this meaningful opportunity to support Catholic education.
2026–2027 School Year
Frances and John Schweihs were devoted, long-time parishioners of St. Alexander Parish who generously served in many ministries. Frances was a graduate of St. Alexander School (Class of 1930), and their commitment to Catholic education continued through their family—each of their six children, as well as three grandchildren, also graduated from St. Alexander School.
In honor of their legacy, the Frances and John Schweihs Catholic Education Scholarship is awarded annually to support families seeking a strong Catholic education for their children. This scholarship reflects the sacrifices Fran and John made for their own family and continues their mission of making Catholic education accessible to others. Today, their family extends this opportunity to parish families of both St. Alexander and St. Pius X.
One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded for the 2026–2027 school year. In addition to the scholarship application, families must also apply for financial aid through FACTS Management as part of the Diocese of Joliet process: https://factsmgt.com/
The application is below and should be returned to the School or Parish Office upon completion.
We encourage all eligible families to apply and take advantage of this meaningful opportunity to support Catholic education.
Tracking Volunteer Hours at St. Pius X
All St. Pius X adult members — school and parish — are asked to complete a minimum of 6 volunteer hours each year to help support and strengthen our community.
Volunteer opportunities and hour tracking are now centralized through MobileServe. The platform includes a digital bulletin board of service opportunities and will serve as the official place to log all volunteer hours, whether through school events, athletics, parish ministries, or outreach efforts.
A MobileServe Getting Started Guide is attached with instructions for downloading the app, creating an account, joining the St. Pius X Adult Volunteers group, and logging hours accurately.
Volunteer opportunities and hour tracking are now centralized through MobileServe. The platform includes a digital bulletin board of service opportunities and will serve as the official place to log all volunteer hours, whether through school events, athletics, parish ministries, or outreach efforts.
A MobileServe Getting Started Guide is attached with instructions for downloading the app, creating an account, joining the St. Pius X Adult Volunteers group, and logging hours accurately.
Knights Track & Field Season is Under Way!
Our St. Pius X Knights Track & Field student-athletes are back in action this Saturday, April 25 at Willowbrook High School for their second meet of the season.
After opening the year in tough early-spring conditions, our athletes showed resilience and determination across a full range of events—from sprints and distance races to relays, long jump, and throwing events. It was a true test of grit, and our Knights rose to the challenge. You can view results from that first meet here:
https://www.athletic.net/TrackAndField/meet/655894/results
Since then, the work has continued. Practices have been focused and demanding, with athletes building the consistency and discipline that Track & Field requires.
It was also a big week for our future Knights. Our Developmental Team (Grades 3 and 4) competed in their first meet, taking on Notre Dame / Holy Trinity / Kingswood Academy and St. Michael. They participated in the 100M dash, 4x100M relay, 800M run, long jump, and javelin—gaining valuable experience and competing with great energy.
From our youngest athletes to our middle school competitors, the momentum is building. Saturday is another step forward.
After opening the year in tough early-spring conditions, our athletes showed resilience and determination across a full range of events—from sprints and distance races to relays, long jump, and throwing events. It was a true test of grit, and our Knights rose to the challenge. You can view results from that first meet here:
https://www.athletic.net/TrackAndField/meet/655894/results
Since then, the work has continued. Practices have been focused and demanding, with athletes building the consistency and discipline that Track & Field requires.
It was also a big week for our future Knights. Our Developmental Team (Grades 3 and 4) competed in their first meet, taking on Notre Dame / Holy Trinity / Kingswood Academy and St. Michael. They participated in the 100M dash, 4x100M relay, 800M run, long jump, and javelin—gaining valuable experience and competing with great energy.
From our youngest athletes to our middle school competitors, the momentum is building. Saturday is another step forward.
Upcoming Events
The SPX Glow Run returns on Saturday, May 30 at 6:30 PM, bringing our school, parish, and alumni community together for one of the most exciting nights of the year. This year features a new “Touch of Color,” adding the energy of a color run to our signature glow-in-the-dark celebration.
The Glow Run is not just about running—it is a full evening for everyone. Students, parents, alumni, and friends are all invited to take part, whether that means running, walking, cheering, or simply enjoying the atmosphere. Participants will rotate through 15-minute, age-based heats, creating a fun and fast-paced experience for all.
There are three simple ways to be part of the night:
The Glow Run is a celebration of community, energy, and the close of another great school year. We invite all SPX families to come out, bring friends, and be part of a night that continues to grow each year.
The Glow Run is not just about running—it is a full evening for everyone. Students, parents, alumni, and friends are all invited to take part, whether that means running, walking, cheering, or simply enjoying the atmosphere. Participants will rotate through 15-minute, age-based heats, creating a fun and fast-paced experience for all.
There are three simple ways to be part of the night:
Participate
Register by Friday, May 15 to receive an official Glow Run t-shirt and finisher medal. All are welcome to join, regardless of pace or participation level.Accessorize
Enhance your experience with Glow Tickets, which can be used throughout the event for food, drinks, games, and glow gear. Tickets will be available at the event, but pre-purchasing offers the best value and allows you to jump right into the fun.Sponsor
Families and local businesses are invited to support the event through sponsorship opportunities, with recognition at the event and on the official Glow Run t-shirt.The Glow Run is a celebration of community, energy, and the close of another great school year. We invite all SPX families to come out, bring friends, and be part of a night that continues to grow each year.
Get ready to turn the page into summer with a brand-new St. Pius tradition! The Great St. Pius Book Exchange will take place on Monday, May 18 and Tuesday, May 19 from 3:00–6:00 PM in the St. Pius Social Center, and all current and incoming SPX families are invited to be part of it.
This event is all about inspiring a love of reading while sharing the gift of books within our community. Families are encouraged to donate new or gently used reading books for all ages—from baby through high school. Please ensure books are in good condition (no writing, ripped, or missing pages) and note that activity, coloring, or sticker books are not included.
During the exchange, families will have the opportunity to browse and take home “new-to-you” books—perfect for building summer reading libraries. Even better, any books not selected will be donated to underprivileged schools and daycares, extending the impact of this effort beyond our own community.
This is a simple, meaningful way to encourage reading, support our teachers and families, and live out the spirit of service that defines St. Pius X. We hope to see you there as we share stories, spark imagination, and keep our Knights reading all summer long.
This event is all about inspiring a love of reading while sharing the gift of books within our community. Families are encouraged to donate new or gently used reading books for all ages—from baby through high school. Please ensure books are in good condition (no writing, ripped, or missing pages) and note that activity, coloring, or sticker books are not included.
During the exchange, families will have the opportunity to browse and take home “new-to-you” books—perfect for building summer reading libraries. Even better, any books not selected will be donated to underprivileged schools and daycares, extending the impact of this effort beyond our own community.
This is a simple, meaningful way to encourage reading, support our teachers and families, and live out the spirit of service that defines St. Pius X. We hope to see you there as we share stories, spark imagination, and keep our Knights reading all summer long.
St. Pius X Vacation Bible School: Rainforest Falls – Registration Now Open
Get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure! St. Pius X Vacation Bible School, Rainforest Falls, will take place June 15–19, 2026 from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM. Children will journey through the rainforest jungle as they discover how God is present in our lives each day, learning alongside inspiring saints who trusted in Him.
VBS is open to Rising Kindergarten through Rising 5th Grade students, with a cost of $30 per child.
Families are asked to complete a registration form (one per child) and return it with payment to the Parish Office, attention to Gina. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.
For questions or more information, please contact Gina at gwiedman@spxlombard.org
or 630-627-4526.
Join us for a week of faith, fun, and discovery this summer at St. Pius X!
Get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure! St. Pius X Vacation Bible School, Rainforest Falls, will take place June 15–19, 2026 from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM. Children will journey through the rainforest jungle as they discover how God is present in our lives each day, learning alongside inspiring saints who trusted in Him.
VBS is open to Rising Kindergarten through Rising 5th Grade students, with a cost of $30 per child.
Families are asked to complete a registration form (one per child) and return it with payment to the Parish Office, attention to Gina. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.
For questions or more information, please contact Gina at gwiedman@spxlombard.org
or 630-627-4526.
Join us for a week of faith, fun, and discovery this summer at St. Pius X!
SPX Summer Care is a weekly summer program for students enrolled preschool through second grade for the 2026-27 school year. It is offered over 11 weeks this summer (with the exception of June 28-July 3 due to parking lot work and school deep cleaning).
Each themed week is filled with hands-on activities, creative play, outdoor fun, and faith-filled moments - all led by our trusted SPX staff in a safe, nurturing environment.
The program runs Monday-Friday from 8:30 AM-3:00 PM and offers flexible week-by-week registration. Whether you need full summer coverage or just a few "Mom's Free Days," SPX Summer Care is a joyful and convenient option for your family.
Please we aware that:
Each themed week is filled with hands-on activities, creative play, outdoor fun, and faith-filled moments - all led by our trusted SPX staff in a safe, nurturing environment.
The program runs Monday-Friday from 8:30 AM-3:00 PM and offers flexible week-by-week registration. Whether you need full summer coverage or just a few "Mom's Free Days," SPX Summer Care is a joyful and convenient option for your family.
Please we aware that:
- You child must be registered at St. Pius X Parish School for the 2026-27 school year.
- Space is limited. Your spot is not held until you complete the online registration and pay
- Children must be potty trained to attend.
- Limit of 20 students per week
- $250 per week
SPX Athletics Summer Camps Announced
St. Pius X Athletics is excited to offer a full lineup of Summer Camps for students of all ages, providing opportunities for young Knights to stay active, build skills, and have fun throughout the summer.
The season begins with Intro to Sports Camp (June 1–5) for students in Kindergarten through 4th grade, focusing on fundamental athletic skills, coordination, and teamwork. Young dancers can join Intro to Dance Camp (June 8–11) for students entering Pre-4 through 1st grade, introducing the basics of dance in a fun and welcoming environment.
Athletes can continue developing their skills at Volleyball Camp (June 22–26) for grades 3–8 and Basketball Camp (July 13–17) for grades 3–8, both emphasizing skill development, gameplay, and teamwork.
Dancers entering grades 2–8 can participate in Dance Technique Camp, held on select evenings from July 9 through August 13, focusing on building technique and preparing for future performances.
The summer concludes with Strength & Conditioning Camp (July 20–24) for grades 5–8, designed to help students improve strength, agility, endurance, and overall athletic performance.
These camps provide a great opportunity for students to stay active, develop new skills, and enjoy the spirit of St. Pius X Athletics all summer long.
St. Pius X Athletics is excited to offer a full lineup of Summer Camps for students of all ages, providing opportunities for young Knights to stay active, build skills, and have fun throughout the summer.
The season begins with Intro to Sports Camp (June 1–5) for students in Kindergarten through 4th grade, focusing on fundamental athletic skills, coordination, and teamwork. Young dancers can join Intro to Dance Camp (June 8–11) for students entering Pre-4 through 1st grade, introducing the basics of dance in a fun and welcoming environment.
Athletes can continue developing their skills at Volleyball Camp (June 22–26) for grades 3–8 and Basketball Camp (July 13–17) for grades 3–8, both emphasizing skill development, gameplay, and teamwork.
Dancers entering grades 2–8 can participate in Dance Technique Camp, held on select evenings from July 9 through August 13, focusing on building technique and preparing for future performances.
The summer concludes with Strength & Conditioning Camp (July 20–24) for grades 5–8, designed to help students improve strength, agility, endurance, and overall athletic performance.
These camps provide a great opportunity for students to stay active, develop new skills, and enjoy the spirit of St. Pius X Athletics all summer long.
St. Pius X at the Lombard Lilac Parade!
Calling all dancers, athletes, scouts, band members, and more! St. Pius X is excited to announce our participation in the Lombard Lilac Parade on May 17th! This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our school pride and bring the St. Pius X community together for a fun and memorable event! Sign up by May 1st.
Stay tuned for more details on how you can get involved, what to expect, and how we’ll represent St. Pius X in this beloved local tradition. We can’t wait to see our students, families, and friends coming together to make this a fantastic day!
Mark your calendars and get ready to march with us on May 17th!!! Theme: Happy 250th Birthday America! For questions, please email spxdance@aol.com
Stay tuned for more details on how you can get involved, what to expect, and how we’ll represent St. Pius X in this beloved local tradition. We can’t wait to see our students, families, and friends coming together to make this a fantastic day!
Mark your calendars and get ready to march with us on May 17th!!! Theme: Happy 250th Birthday America! For questions, please email spxdance@aol.com
Commemorative Lilac Parade Shirt Now Available
For those of you participating in the Lombard Lilac Parade with St. Pius X this year, or those that are just HUGE Lombard and St. Pius X fans, we are had a special commemorative shirt made. PURCHASE BEFORE APRIL 30!
Dear SPX Families,
As we wrap up the school year, we want to hear from you. The School Board's annual end-of-year survey takes just a few minutes and helps shape the direction of our school community.
Please take a moment to share your feedback using the button below
The survey will close May 15th. Thank you for your time and your continued investment in St. Pius X.
Thank you,
Stephen Bannon
School Board President
St. Pius X Parish School
As we wrap up the school year, we want to hear from you. The School Board's annual end-of-year survey takes just a few minutes and helps shape the direction of our school community.
Please take a moment to share your feedback using the button below
The survey will close May 15th. Thank you for your time and your continued investment in St. Pius X.
Thank you,
Stephen Bannon
School Board President
St. Pius X Parish School
Upcoming Events & Reminders!
- Art Fair & Ice Cream Social: Join us THIS Sunday, April 26th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the SPX Social Center. Come admire the artwork created by our Pre K through 8th-grade students, and grab some ice cream that will be available for purchase.
- Billy Bricks Frozen Pizza Fundraiser Let's raise some dough! Billy Bricks is donating 20% of each frozen pizza sold to St. Pius School. Scan the QR code or use the link on the flyer to pre-order your premium, restaurant-quality pizzas.
- Order Deadline: Monday, April 27th at 11:00 AM
- Pick-Up: Wednesday, April 29th starting at 3:00 PM at St. Pius School (601 S Westmore Ave)
- Order Pizza Here
- St. Pius X Yearbook Deadline: Don't forget to order your 2026 Yearbook. The deadline to create and add your free custom pages is April 30th. Soft covers are $26.29 and hard covers are $32.75.
- Teacher Appreciation Week: Help us show our staff they are "Nacho Average" teachers from May 4th through May 8th. We have fun planned all week long, so please scan the QR code on the event flyer to sign up and donate.
The SPX Service Society connects members of our St. Pius X community with meaningful opportunities to serve one another. When a need arises within our school or parish community, we share it — giving families, students, and parishioners a simple and organized way to step in and lend a hand.
Helping counts toward your St. Pius X volunteer hours! Remember to log in MobileServe (see article above, "Tracking Volunteer Hours")
Helping counts toward your St. Pius X volunteer hours! Remember to log in MobileServe (see article above, "Tracking Volunteer Hours")
PSA Needs Help!
We can always use help with our events. We are currently looking for help with our remaining 2025-26 school year events. Please check the tabs at the top of the page at the link below.
We can always use help with our events. We are currently looking for help with our remaining 2025-26 school year events. Please check the tabs at the top of the page at the link below.
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.
We’d like to share with you some our upcoming events in the next two months. Flyers with additional information are attached below.
World Youth Day 2027 : July 30 – August 9, 2027
Seoul, Korea (Optional pre-tour of South Korea and optional post-tour of Vietnam)
World Youth Day 2027 : July 30 – August 9, 2027
Seoul, Korea (Optional pre-tour of South Korea and optional post-tour of Vietnam)
- The Diocese of Joliet is inviting all young adults(must be 18 by July 1, 2027)for World Youth Day in Seoul, Korea! Join us as we take part in the largest gathering young Catholics in the world. This pilgrimage offers an extensive tour of South Korea and also offers an option for a pre-tour to see more of South Korea, as well as a post-tour in Vietnam. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime opportunity! Proceeds from our pilgrimages are used to support our office as well as the seminarians during their formation. The vocations office is always looking for ways to support our diocesan young adults in their journeys, if you’re unable to join us at World Youth day but you are interested in sponsoring or contributing to the young adults desire to join us, you can call our office at 815-221-6171 or you can email us atvocations@dioceseofjoliet.org
