The National Catholic Education Commission (NCEC) joins with the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis and pays tribute to his lasting legacy for young people and Catholic education worldwide.
NCEC Executive Director Jacinta Collins expressed profound sadness and gratitude for the Pope’s unwavering commitment to education as a path to peace, justice and human dignity.
“Pope Francis was a global voice for the poor, the young, and the marginalised. His belief in education as a tool for transformation resonates deeply with the mission of Catholic schools,” Ms Collins said.
“Through initiatives like the Global Compact on Education, Pope Francis challenged us to come together to place the individual at the centre of learning and faith formation, and to create educational systems that foster synodality, dialogue, solidarity and care for our common home.”
“Under his pontificate, Catholic educators across the world were encouraged to lead with care, understanding and hope in nurturing the faith lives of young people and sharing the joy of the Gospel message.
“Pope Francis inspired a generation of young people to live with courage and compassion. His legacy will continue to guide our work in Catholic schools and shape the hearts and minds of students for generations to come,” Ms Collins said.
The National Catholic Education Commission prays that eternal rest be granted to Pope Francis and perpetual light shine upon him.
Australia’s 1,751 Catholic schools educate 820,000 or one in five Australian students and is the largest provider of schooling outside of the government sector.