Were Jesus and the Apostles speaking in riddles? Are the parables stories to confuse us? No. Jesus and the apostles use this figurative language based on common elements or ideas of the time period so one can critically think about the essence of the meaning rather than just absorbing facts. Through reflection on the images presented, we are called to transform a common idea into a deeper understanding which brings us into a closer relationship with God.
Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac used the image of “living stones” in an address to one of the early convents in the budding community of Sisters. Saint Jeanne told these Sisters that they were living stones creating a pathway and a foundation within the Kingdom of God for generations to come.
When considering a name for the pioneering students founding the new high school in Temecula (the first Company of Mary high school in the United States), “Living Stones” rang out as the most appropriate. These students have committed to building a school community in the Roman Catholic tradition and laying the foundation for generations of students to come. They will share ideas on policies, procedures, and traditions. They will forge forward to create legacy in the athletic realm, as scholars serving those in need, and discovering the daily miracles that bind us together in humanity. They will indeed be living stones, relying on Christ as the Master Builder and Cornerstone, to create a path to and for the future.
“A central value of the program offered at Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac Catholic High School is to engage and instruct students as global citizens to further impact their contributions beyond high school years,” states Annette Zaleski, Principal. “International travel will be part of the quality educational and formational program in place.”
The first international study trip will be to France and Rome scheduled for early 2019. As members of the inaugural group, students will trace the roots back to the foundress of the Order of the Sisters of the Company of Mary, Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac. Students will walk in the footsteps of Saint Jeanne from her childhood in Bordeaux, to her reflective discernment in La Mothe, revisiting the early convent and school communities throughout France, and culminating the tour in Rome celebrating the gift and connectedness of the universal Church.
“This experience will be the first of many instructional and formational trips in which our students receive an education without borders to develop a greater understanding of what it means to live as a global citizen and apply classroom learning in a worldwide setting,” says Sister Ernestine Velarde, President.
God has given us a great opportunity. May we all strive to be living stones in all aspects of our lives.
We can’t wait to share all aspects of living the values of Saint Jeanne and forming the pride of what will become - Mustang Nation!
Do you have what it takes to be a Living Stone? Don’t wait another minute! Apply today to be a part of the inaugural class at Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac Catholic High School. For more information call or email Annette Zaleski at 951-587-2505 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..