At Opening of Schools Mass, Catholic educators encouraged to anchor work in Christ’s hope and rely on Holy Spirit
Hundreds of Catholic educators gathered in prayer at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on Aug. 25 for the annual Opening of Schools Mass. Washington Auxiliary Bishop Juan Esposito celebrated the votive Mass of the Holy Spirit, which launched the academic year for teachers, principals and staff of Catholic schools in the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington. Together, they prayed for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in their mission of Catholic education.
In his homily, Bishop Esposito reflected on the role of Catholic schools in forming not only minds but also hearts, particularly through fostering authentic relationships.
“The beginning of the school year, by tradition, is met with mixed emotions,” he said. While students leave behind the carefree days of summer, they also return to friendships and community. That, he explained, is central to Catholic education: “We are inherently social beings who are made for relationships and community. We are interdependent beings, created for one another.”