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September 15, 2022
My dear friends in Christ,
As we welcome students back to school this fall, I invite you to learn why supporting Catholic schools is part of the mission of every Catholic, not just that of parents with children in our schools. We are called to be instruments of evangelization in society by being witnesses to the love of God for all people. Your support of Catholic education, in whatever way you can, will help today’s students become tomorrow’s leaders in both society and the Church.
So many community and business leaders in Central Massachusetts are products of Catholic schools. Their alma maters did not boast the fanciest buildings, or the most expansive after-school programs, or even the flexibility to express one’s individuality in daily attire. What they did offer and continue to offer to this day, is attention to the individual student, sound academic and social formation, and, most importantly, learning what true success in life really means beyond how to make money. That was all possible because of the simple sign that hangs in every Catholic school: “Jesus is the reason for this school.”
Religion is not just one topic among others in Catholic Schools. The relevance of our faith can be discussed in the context of every single topic taught in our classrooms, including science, math, history, literature and languages. It is also prevalent in after-school programs, sports and the arts. The Catholic school student learns that to live the good life is to live a life filled with meaning, which is not the same as living an easy life or a life focused on consumerism.
Today it is difficult for parents to pay tuition while also paying taxes that support public schools, but they know they are investing in their child’s future, both temporal and eternal. For many families, especially today’s immigrant families, that is not an option. Increasing access to financial aid takes everyone sharing in solidarity with our Catholic school families.
There are ways to support Catholic schools beyond financial assistance as well. Talk to family and friends about the value of the Catholic school option in our communities. Support their decision to choose a Catholic School. And never forget the power of prayer to support the work of our teachers, administrators and staff who are dedicated to the ministry of Catholic School education, a ministry which makes tangible the love of Jesus in the life of each student they encounter.
You can make a difference in the lives of Catholic school students today to be great leaders for tomorrow.
With every prayerful best wish, I remain
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Robert J. McManus
Bishop of Worcester