“Catholic schools prepare every student to meet the challenges of their future by developing their mind, yes, but also their body and their soul and spirit.” ~ David Vitter
Today is the beginning of Catholic Schools Week. We celebrate our heritage each year at the end of January and we truly have much to celebrate.
Education is so very important. If our children are not educated properly, they will miss out on many things in life. That is one of the primary reasons for schools.
There are those who constantly argue about the value of public education versus private education. While, in many respects, children can receive adequate educations in either setting, we celebrate what Catholic education can enhance.
Vitter highlights that difference when he acknowledges that Catholic schools not only help to develop the mind but the body and soul as well. In Catholic schools, we can teach in a faith-based environment, helping the students to learn and acquire positive values that are crucial. We can talk about faith issues. We can celebrate our faith and belief in God. We can do those things freely, things that are often looked down upon if not outright prohibited in public education settings.
In forming the student, we attempt to do even more. We realize that the first teachers of the students are not the adults standing in the classroom, they are the adults that are at home: the mothers and fathers of the students. In a faith-based environment, we do our best to reinforce what the student is being taught in their home.
That is why Catholic schools do as much as they can to invite the parents to be a part of living the faith as much as possible. When parents model the faith, children tend to accept it and acquire it easier.
Hence, we are all teachers of the faith, not just the “teacher” in the classroom. It would do us well to ask ourselves if we are living the faith appropriately. Do we nurture a deeper relationship with God day by day? Do we invite others to walk with us in our faith journey?
Those are all ways that we can become teachers of the faith and, in the process, unite ourselves more closely with one another and with the Lord. United in Faith and Community. That is more than a catchphrase. That is more than a hope or a dream. That is a goal. Embrace the Lord today and ask Him to help you to be a witness to your family, friends, coworkers, and world.
FAITH ACTION: Pray for all involved in Catholic education as students, teachers, administrators, parents, or supporters.