It has been an interesting few weeks for those of us in Catholic education, as we find ourselves in a period of transformation and renewal. The appointment of Bishop John Sherrington as our new Archbishop has brought fresh hope and joyful anticipation to our schools and colleges, which have embraced this historic moment with open hearts and deep faith.

 

In the days surrounding the recent conclave, the sense of excitement was tangible across the archdiocese. Schools gathered for special assemblies, offered prayers, and explored the meaning of the papal election in light of our shared Catholic mission. Pupils at St Leo’s and Southmead schools were especially animated - not only by the mystery and grandeur of the conclave - but by the name chosen by the Holy Father: Pope Leo. For these children, the papal name wasn’t just symbolic; it resonated deeply with their own identity, their school’s heritage, and their faith.

 

Pope Leo - a name that echoes through the centuries - carries with it a rich legacy, particularly in the realm of Catholic education and Church leadership during times of great social change. Pope Leo I, also known as Leo the Great, was a defender of Church doctrine in the 5th century, emphasising unity and the authority of the Church during a time of considerable turbulence. Much later, Pope Leo XIII, elected in 1878, became one of the most influential modern popes, particularly in matters concerning education, the dignity of labour, and the Church’s place in a changing world.

 

It was Pope Leo XIII who wrote in his landmark encyclical Rerum Novarum (1891): “It is no easy matter to define the relative rights and mutual duties of the rich and of the poor, of capital and of labour. But the Church... lays down principles which, if they be but faithfully carried out, will bring about a solution in accordance with truth and justice.”

 

Though often remembered for his groundbreaking social teaching, Pope Leo XIII was also a passionate advocate for Catholic education. He understood that education was not merely a societal function, but a sacred responsibility of the Church. In Spectata Fides (1885), he wrote: “It is of the utmost importance to give youth a sound religious training. Christian wisdom must shape the foundation of their knowledge.”

 

At a time when the Church was responding to modernity, secular ideologies, and growing industrialisation, Pope Leo XIII stood firm in defending the importance of moral and spiritual formation through Catholic schooling. His efforts contributed significantly to the revitalisation of Catholic education across the world.

 

Today, as we welcome Archbishop John Sherrington to shepherd the Archdiocese of Liverpool, we are reminded of Pope Leo’s own courage in leading the Church through change. The parallels are striking: a time of social upheaval, a renewed focus on mission, and the urgent need for wise and compassionate leadership.

 

The enthusiasm of our pupils - especially those at St Leo’s and Southmead - reminds us that the story of the Church is alive and unfolding in our classrooms, in our prayers, and in our hopes for the future. The excitement of the conclave, the pride in our new Archbishop, and the joy sparked by the papal name ‘Leo’ have all reminded us that Catholic education is not just about learning facts, but about discovering identity, purpose, and communion.

 

As Pope Leo XIII once wrote: “Nothing is more useful than to look upon the world as it really is, and at the same time to rise above it.”

 

In that same spirit, we step confidently into this new chapter for the Archdiocese of Liverpool - grounded in faith, inspired by history, and filled with hope for the future.