By Joan McCarthy Director of Education, Archdiocese of Liverpool

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The start of a New Year often invites us to think about resolutions - small but meaningful commitments that help us grow. As Catholic schools and colleges across the Archdiocese of Liverpool begin this New Year, we are invited to reflect on our shared resolution: to continue offering an education rooted in faith, hope, and love. As Drawing New Maps of Hope reminds us, “education is an act of hope,” grounded in the belief that every child and young person is created in the image of God and called to fullness of life.

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Catholic education does not exist without challenges. Increasing secularisation, pressures on religious education, staff recruitment, and growing wellbeing needs are realities for our schools and colleges. Yet there is much to be thankful for.

 

Across the Archdiocese of Liverpool, our schools and colleges remain places where faith is lived daily, where each person is known and valued, and where the Gospel is clearly witnessed. They are truly “communities of faith where the Gospel is lived, taught, and witnessed.”

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As we look ahead, our New Year’s resolutions might be simple but powerful: to deepen our Catholic identity, to strengthen partnerships with families and parishes, to continue supporting wellbeing, and to commit ourselves more intentionally to prayer. In this New Year, we resolve to pray for all who are part of our schools and colleges - our students, staff, leaders, governors, families, and parish communities - entrusting them to God’s loving care. These commitments echo the words of the prophet Micah:

“What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8).

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The New Year calls us to “courageously draw new maps,” remaining faithful to who we are while responding creatively to the needs of today’s young people. With gratitude for all that is already strong and trust in God’s guidance, Catholic education in the Archdiocese of Liverpool continues to be a sign of hope for our communities.

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May this New Year be shaped by faith, strengthened by hope, and guided by love.