Bishop’s Message for Catholic Schools Week· Catholic schools eager to ‘showcase unique environment’

BISHOP DAVID M. O’CONNELL, C.M., HAS SHARED THIS MESSAGE for Catholic Schools Week 2026

Catholic schools offer classrooms that reflect the Gospel

I had the privilege of meeting Pope Leo XIV for the first time recently, and I was deeply moved by the warmth, joy and pastoral attentiveness he radiated as he greeted pilgrims gathered in Rome for the conclusion of the Jubilee of Hope. In his presence, one sensed a shepherd who truly believes in the promise of the Church’s future — especially as it is nurtured through Catholic education.

Earlier in his pontificate, the Holy Father wrote, “The Catholic school is an environment in which faith, culture and life intertwine. It is not simply an institution, but rather a living environment in which the Christian vision permeates every discipline and every interaction” (Apostolic Letter Drawing New Maps of Hope, art. 5.2, October 27, 2025). These words beautifully capture the essence of what we celebrate during Catholic Schools Week 2026.

This year’s theme, “Catholic Schools — United in Faith and Community,” invites us to reflect on the distinctive gift our schools offer to the Church and to society. Catholic schools are not merely places where students receive an excellent education — though they certainly do that well. They are communities of belonging, where faith is shared, values are lived, and young people are formed to see themselves as beloved sons and daughters of God, called to serve others.

Read the full message HERE.

Photo caption: Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., joins Father Leandro Dela Cruz, pastor; Ameriquin Dalmasy-Laccetti, head of school; and students from St. Ann School, Lawrenceville, during Catholic Schools Week 2025. Rose O’Connor photo.
​

---

WITH THE THEME “CATHOLIC SCHOOLS: UNITED IN FAITH AND COMMUNITY,” this year’s annual Catholic Schools Week will be marked Jan. 25-31, “emphasizing faith formation, service, and strong partnerships with families and parishes” as described by the National Catholic Educators Association.

“CSW gives us the privilege of stepping into so many classrooms and witnessing something deeply meaningful: students who are grateful for the opportunity to practice their faith, and educators who intentionally create calm, purpose-filled spaces where learning and formation go hand in hand,” said Bonnie Milecki, diocesan Catholic schools assistant superintendent for development and operations.

“Our schools remain places where tradition, ritual and reverence anchor young people in what truly matters,” she noted. “As we mark the 100th anniversary of the Pierce v. Society of Sisters Supreme Court verdict, which codified the right of Catholic schools to exist, we are reminded that this work is not only sacred, but foundational to the freedom of families to choose faith-based education.”

Read more HERE.