The Miracle of a Catholic Education

As a people of faith, we believe in miracles. Scripture and the history of our church abound with examples of divine events. Many of these events were performed by Christ himself, such as the multiplication of loaves and fishes, or the ultimate miracle of the resurrection. Other miracles happen through holy men and women, such as St. Teresa of Calcutta, who are remembered for their profound faith and commitment to Christ. However, our faith also teaches that we are capable of miracles. Indeed, many of us have heard stories of miracles occurring in the modern day, transmitted through regular people. Lives have been touched by miraculous medical procedures. The prayers of a loved one have provided some with miraculous strength and healing.

I am a believer that miracles constantly occur around us, even if they are not recognized or acknowledged. We may not be perfect, but we are capable of performing miracles through the ever-present grace of God.

One of the greatest joys of my job is visiting Catholic schools and witnessing how a Catholic education touches the lives of children. In my career as a school teacher, principal and superintendent, I’ve been gratified to see the transformative value of our schools. For me, Catholic school education is a miracle, and miracles occur every day in our classrooms.

This month, the 217 Catholic schools of the Archdiocese of Chicago will participate in Catholic Schools Week, a national celebration of the excellence, history and success of Catholic education. For this week, each of our schools has planned a number of special activities to demonstrate the value of this important ministry. From liturgies and service projects to social events and pep rallies, Catholic Schools Week allows us to display the wonderful vibrancy of the nation’s largest Catholic school system.

While Catholic Schools Week is truly a joyful time, no single activity can fully display the miraculous value of a Catholic education. For generations, our schools have welcomed all students, and immersed them in an environment where they are valued and validated. At a time when many school districts have cut arts and enrichment programs, our schools are committed to educating the whole child, providing a rigorous academic program that truly prepares them for life ahead. Graduates of Catholic schools can be found in positions of influence and leadership all over the world, where they work to make a positive difference for those around them.

Our schools awaken within each child a heart for service. Each year, our students contribute thousands of service hours to their local communities. Students are taught every day to give back to those less fortunate, to live lives of compassion and humility.

However, the true source of the miracle of Catholic schools emerges out of the presence of Christ in all that we do. Our students are immersed in a setting where Christ is constantly present. Each child is taught to develop their own relationship with Christ, and explore their unique God-given call to holiness. A child’s journey through a Catholic school is nothing short of miraculous. When our students graduate, they are well prepared to spread the transformational joy of love of God to those around them.

During Catholic Schools Week, I hope you will join me as we celebrate the incalculable value of our Catholic schools. I encourage you to visit one of our schools, and witness firsthand the faith formation and academic preparation of our students. I know that you will be convinced of the importance of our schools. Like me, I know you will see miracles.

May God bless and watch over our treasured Catholic schools!