HARRISBURG, Pa. – Bishop Ronald W. Gainer released the following statement today in celebration of National Catholic Schools Week:
As we celebrate National Catholic Schools Week, we are reminded of the important role our Catholic schools have in the lives of families throughout the Diocese of Harrisburg. This week is a time when we celebrate all that our Catholic Schools have to offer to our families, our Church and our world. We celebrate our strong academics, our focus on our faith, our athletic, music and other extracurricular programs, and we celebrate our students, faculty and staff members.
Our Catholic schools not only prepare our students for success academically, but also spiritually. By attending a Catholic school, these young men and women are being prepared to have a life-long relationship with Jesus Christ, to understand the value and dignity of every person, to answer the call to help their neighbor and to live a life that is pleasing to God. I am very proud of the Catholic identity of our schools and the role they play in helping our students draw closer to the Lord and to live His Gospel.
The unparalleled success of our Catholic schools does not happen without the wholehearted commitment of so many wonderful people, including principals, presidents, administrators, teachers, staff, volunteers, financial benefactors, pastors, parents and students. Those who work in our schools see their participation in Catholic schools not just as a job, but as their vocation, a generous “labor of love” to which God has called them.
This school year has been very challenging for everyone. To our students, I want to thank you for continuing to do your best, whether you are learning in the classroom or at home. Each of you is a precious gift from God. To our families, thank you for your continued trust and faith in our Catholic Schools. To our faculty, staff and administrators, thank you for your outstanding work. Your dedication and flexibility, especially in these unprecedented times, show your love for your students and for Catholic education.
Our 35 schools, 1700 staff members and over 9,000 students have met and risen above the challenges associated with the pandemic during the past 10 months. Because of the hard work of so many, our schools have remained open for in-person learning, while also providing distance education for families requesting this option. Our schools have been successful in operating effectively and in mitigating the spread of COVID-19.
On behalf of our entire Church and in the name of our Lord Jesus, I extend my prayers and blessings to all who are involved in Catholic schools in the Diocese of Harrisburg. Happy Catholic Schools Week!
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