Adobe Stock
CV NEWS FEED // There are several essential elements, as well as profound value, in Catholic education, emphasized Bishop James Conley of the Diocese of Lincoln in his recent pastoral letter.
Drawing inspiration from St. Irenaeus’s assertion that “The glory of God is man, fully alive,” Bishop Conley outlined in his letter the essential role of education in nurturing the human potential to become fully alive.
“We do not, left to our own devices, exercise the full potential of the gifts that God has given us,” the Bishop wrote. “This is precisely why education—and Catholic education especially—is so important.”
He later continued, “Since education is the formation of human hearts, minds, and wills for the glory of their Creator, it has always been a priority within Catholicism. But this raises the question: what makes an education genuinely Catholic?”
He explained the five key elements that define authentic Catholic education as laid out by Archbishop J. Michael Miller.
According to Archbishop Miller, genuine Catholic education must be “Inspired by a supernatural vision,” “Founded on a Christian anthropology,” “Animated by Communion and Community,” “Imbued with a Catholic Worldview throughout the Curriculum,” and “Sustained by Gospel Witness.”
Bishop Conley also reflected on ways that Catholic schools can respond to challenges that are experienced in the modern world, such as increasing loneliness and individualization.
“As technocracy replaces morality, our schools should develop new uses and approaches to technology in a manner consistent with Christian anthropology and human dignity,” he wrote, noting that Catholic schools should counter “an ugly, crude, and banal culture” with music, art, and literature to foster “a true and beautiful Christian culture.”
“In a virtual age, Catholic education must offer real experiences, with real things, preparing our students for the countercultural experience of a holy and joyful Christian life,” he continued. “Ultimately, the way our schools can address reductive, utilitarian, and functionalist worldviews is to foster wonder, joy, and hope with Jesus at the center.”
Bishop Conley noted that he did not grow up Catholic and reflected on how his conversion was in part due to a great books liberal arts program he took in college.
“When I discovered truth, goodness, and beauty in the great books …. wonder took hold within me,” the Bishop wrote. “As I was reborn in wonder my heart began to sing for joy. I discovered love Himself through the joy and wonder suffused throughout my liberal arts program.”
As CatholicVote previously reported, Pittsburgh Archbishop Emeritus Charles Chaput commended Bishop Conley’s pastoral letter.
“Bishop Conley does us a great service in reminding us of the purpose of education,” Archbishop Chaput wrote. “It is a letter that should be read widely by educators, pastors, parents, and all people entrusted with the care of young hearts and minds.”
