"We have gathered together to celebrate the beginning of the new school year; what beautiful things are in front of each of you," said Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama on August 9 as school teachers and administrators from across the Diocese of Raleigh gathered at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral for the first-ever Mass held specifically to bless and inspire them for the upcoming school year.
"A miracle happened here today because the Cathedral is packed on Wednesday morning,” Bishop Luis said.
The Mass readings spoke of courage, perseverance and the importance of nurturing the seeds of knowledge and wisdom. And the Gospel message of being a light in the world resonated deeply with the educators, who see their role not just as instructors but as guides, shaping the minds and hearts of the future.
By witness and example, Bishop Luis said educators are to demonstrate to students what it means to be a follower of Christ who strives for holiness in great and small ways. He said it isn't always easy, but the Holy Spirit is ready and willing to help educators fulfill this commission.
He acknowledged the challenges teachers faced in molding young minds and souls. He invited the teachers to educate with love, kindness, and patience and asked the Holy Spirit to strengthen Catholic educators to be teachers and evangelists for students and witnesses to the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Bishop Luis spoke of their crucial role in cultivating the next generation of leaders, emphasizing that their dedication was a noble calling, a ministry of love.
Lytia Reese, Superintendent of Schools for the diocese, spoke after Mass to recognize the hard work of all the school personnel. She noted that an increasing number of parents are making the right choice by seeking a Catholic, quality education and that two-year growth of the 28 schools in the diocese has been over 10%.
“Teachers, administrators, and pastors welcome the growth of our school communities,” Reese said.
The superintendent also recognized teachers with service anniversaries, including Debra Hawkins, a pre-K teacher at Immaculata Catholic School in Durham, who has been in the classroom for 35 years.
School staff exited the Cathedral to embark on the new school year inspired by the grace and unity they had experienced and renewed in their calling, a calling that resonates with their faith and dedication to shaping the minds and hearts of the next generation.
Read the full text of Superintendent Lytia Reese’s remarks to diocesan educators (PDF)
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