Dear Member:
One of my favorite slogans for Catholic schools is “We are building a bench for the Church and for the world.” The significance of community in Catholic education becomes particularly pronounced when contemplating the formation of future Church leaders. Our theme for Celebrate Catholic Schools Week is “United in Faith and Community,” and in the sacred mission of the Catholic Church, blending those two things lies at its core. Faith, community and Catholic education have always been closely linked in the American Church. Together they continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of Church leaders.
Catholic education in the United States is not just about the transmission of knowledge; it is dedicated to nurturing the entire person within the heart of the Church. At its essence, our educational tradition asserts that teaching the faith is not confined to just one class, but rather permeates every aspect of the school day. In Catholic schools, students encounter not only rigorous academics but also an environment where faith seamlessly integrates into daily activities. In Catholic schools, we make no distinctions between spiritual and academic development.
Central to Catholic education is the ethos of community-building. Students are integral members of a larger faith community, where they flourish as individuals when relationships flourish, too. This communal spirit extends beyond the classroom, encompassing families, parishes and the wider Church. A Catholic education is not just about academic excellence; it’s about instilling a deep sense of responsibility to one’s community.
The challenges confronting the Church and the nation necessitate leaders who are not only well-educated but are also spiritually rooted and compassionate. Catholic education responds to this need by providing a counter-narrative to individualism and fragmentation. Parents and Church communities work together to form children into leaders who are not only academically and technically skilled but who possess the moral compass to guide themselves and others. Catholic education stands as a driving force shaping the future of the Church. It demands a holistic approach that integrates faith, nurtures community and instills enduring values beyond the classroom.
Peace,
Lincoln Snyder
President/CEO, NCEA