One simple way to enhance your Lenten practice is to participate in the CRS Rice Bowl program. During Lent, Catholics and families across the United States use a Rice Bowl—a small cardboard box—to pray, fast and collect alms in support of their people living in poverty around the world. Each Rice Bowl comes with a calendar that guides families through the 40 days of Lent with activities and reflections connected to our global family.  The Rice Bowls will be sent home on February 24/25 with the students. 

Dear Religious Education Families,

I would like to announce that I will be retiring from my position at St. Stephen the Martyr in May. My last day will be May 21. I have worked in Religious Education for almost 35 years (25 of those years at SSM) and have made some great memories serving the families here at St Stephen the Martyr.

I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for your support and friendship during my years here. I have truly enjoyed serving and working with such talented and Christian-led families.

While it is hard to say goodbye, David and I are excited about the new opportunities that lie ahead. I love gardening and fishing and am looking forward to a summer filled with both. 

We will still be a part of the SSM family and look forward to seeing you at all the many events. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned and the relationships I have built and will always look back on my time at SSM with fondness.

God Bless, Eileen Smith

The St. Stephen the Martyr Knights of Columbus are accepting applications for the 2026 Deacon Wesley Kreun Memorial Scholarship. This is not an academic scholarship; recipients will be selected based on service within the parish and other charitable activities. 

Scholarships include four $500 one-year awards for students attending local Catholic high schools, four $1,000 one-year awards for students attending an accredited college or university, and one $1,000 one-year award for a student attending a trade school.