Today, on World Teacher’s Day, we celebrate more than 112,000 dedicated staff in Catholic schools across Australia. Each one plays a vital role in forming the minds and hearts of our young people. Their work is not simply a job – it is a vocation of deep service, hope and love.
In classrooms, playgrounds, staff rooms and communities, our teachers accompany students as they learn, grow and discover who they are called to be. They help each child flourish, nurturing knowledge, wellbeing, faith and the inherent dignity of every student. In doing so, they share in God’s plan for fullness of life, both here and in eternity.
We are very grateful for the patience, wisdom and compassion our teachers offer each day. Their influence reaches far beyond the school gate, it shapes lives, strengthens families and enriches the common good.
To all our teachers and school staff, thank you. Your vocation makes a lasting difference today and every day. We hope you enjoy your special day!
Pope Leo calls for ‘New Maps of Hope’ as Catholic educators gather in Rome for Global Jubilee
I’m currently attending the Jubilee of the World of Education in Rome with more than 20,000 educators and leaders from 124 countries. This week is not only a celebration of our shared mission, but also an opportunity to reflect on how Catholic education can respond to the needs of young people today. It invites us to learn from one another and renew our commitment to forming both minds and hearts.
Pope Leo calls for our students and schools to do just that in his apostolic letter, “Drawing New Maps of Hope”, released during the Jubilee, marking the 60th anniversary of the 1965 Council document Gravissimum Educationis. In his letter, the Holy Father reaffirms the fundamental role of education to form the whole person and serve human dignity and the common good.
While I look forward to more deeply unpacking Pope Leo’s insights about the continued relevance of Gravissimum Educationis, one element that struck me immediately was the reference to the fragmented and digitised environment in which education exists. This was a sentiment shared at a panel I attended where his Excellency, Archbishop Paul Gallagher (secretary for relations with states and international organisations) and other distinguished panellists, shared their thoughts on the priorities of the Church and the World from now until the next Jubilee. Unsurprisingly artificial intelligence was one such priority. The discussion focused on ensuring soul and
remains at the heart of our adoption and use of technology. I am confident our schools are the ideal place to model this balance of humanity and technological advancement.
Jacinta Collins
Executive Director
National Catholic Education Commission
Main photo: Teachers from St Maria Goretti School, Inglewood, Diocese of Toowoomba Catholic Schools.