This week we celebrate National Catholic Schools Week, and this year we highlight our Catholic schools as “United in Faith and Community.” This celebration comes during a very special time in the Church – a Jubilee Year, which only happens once every 25 years. Pope Francis has designated 2025 as the Jubilee Year of Hope.
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel uncertain about what lies ahead. Yet, every day in our Catholic schools, we’re reminded of the uniting power of faith and hope – values that guide us, even in tough times.
You see, hope is more than just wishful thinking. It’s the belief that no matter what we face in life – good times and bad – Jesus loves us and remains with us. And when we share our hope and faith by encouraging and helping each other, we make our world a brighter, better place.
That’s what makes our Catholic schools so special. Here, students are challenged to pursue excellence, with caring, highly qualified teachers and staff who work closely with students and their parents. But it’s not just about academics. Catholic Schools are about educating the whole child – mind, body and spirit – so students can grow closer to God and each other, then go out to transform the world.
I challenge you to think about what faith and hope mean to you. Whether it’s working as a team, being kind to your classmates or simply doing your best on homework – when you act with faith and hope, you help build up our entire school community and you begin to change the world.
As we go through this week, let’s lean into hope – hope for each other, hope for the future, and hope in the One who loves us: Jesus.
Thank you for being part of what makes our Catholic schools truly special. Let’s make this week – and this Jubilee Year – a beautiful example of being united in faith and hope.
Bishop Michael T. Martin delivered this video address to students, teachers and school staff across the diocese in honor of Catholic Schools Week.