This year’s theme is Catholic Schools: Faith. Excellence. Service.
Since the formation of the Diocese of Cleveland back in 1847, Catholic education has been a centerpiece of the evangelizing mission of the Church in Northeast Ohio. Each year, the diocese celebrates National Catholic Schools Week, an annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. Schools typically observe the week with Masses, assemblies and other activities for students, families, parishioners and community members to celebrate and congratulate. This year, Catholic Schools Week will be held the week of Jan. 31 to Feb. 6, 2021. The theme is Catholic Schools: Faith. Excellence. Service.
I invite everyone to watch online as I celebrate a special Mass with Catholic school students from across the diocese to mark Catholic Schools Week on Tuesday, Feb. 2 at 10 a.m. streamed live on the diocesan website and the diocesan Facebook page.
Catholic schools in the Diocese of Cleveland teach students so much more than just the normal course of academics. Catholic schools in the diocese seek to meet the unique learning needs of each student through a value-centered, inclusive education -- rooted in faith -- that embraces the whole person. In fact, I believe that our Catholic schools are among the best and most comprehensive youth ministry programs that we have. We want to bring our children to Christ, so that they can know him, love him and serve him. Of course, we want our children to have the best.
Leading students to grow to become virtuous, compassionate, well-rounded, faithful and caring adults is at the heart of every Catholic school. It is intrinsic to the Catholic school experience and something every parent would want for their child. Most Catholic school parents know this experience for their child brings with it financial sacrifice. But I believe the parents of the over 37,000 students currently enrolled in Catholic schools in Northeast Ohio would agree that it is very much worth it.
As we celebrate Catholic Schools Week this year, please take time to pray for all those who dedicate their lives to ensuring Catholic education remains a vibrant and accessible option for all students. Visit your local Catholic school. Encourage others to consider a Catholic school education. And please pray for all our students and teachers, catechists and administrators.
Click HERE to learn more about Catholic schools in Northeast Ohio.