By Joan McCarthy Director of Education, Archdiocese of Liverpool

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A Family in Christ: Our Shared Mission

During his recent apostolic journey to France, Pope Leo XIV met with the French bishops in Lourdes and spoke about some of the challenges facing the Church today. Among the issues he addressed, he singled out education as being of particular importance. His words offer a timely reminder of what lies at the heart of our schools and colleges: a warm welcome for all, together with confidence in the faith and mission that make Catholic education distinctive.

 

His reflections come at an important time for us in the Archdiocese of Liverpool as we continue to develop our shared vision of A Family in Christ.

 

It is a simple phrase, but one that says a great deal about who we are. Families support one another, celebrate together, and help each person to grow. That same spirit should be at the heart of Catholic education. Our schools do not stand alone; each is part of a wider community rooted in Christ and united in its care for children, young people and families.

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Pope Leo reminded the French bishops that Catholic education is concerned with the whole person - spiritual, intellectual, moral, cultural, and social.

 

Of course, we want our children and young people to achieve well. They deserve excellent teaching, high expectations, and every opportunity to develop their gifts. But Catholic education has always been about more than results.

 

We also ask: Who is this young person becoming? How can we help them grow in faith, compassion, and confidence? How can we encourage them to use their gifts in the service of others?

 

Our schools are also places of welcome. Across the archdiocese, families come from many different backgrounds and traditions. All are valued.

 

That openness does not weaken our Catholic identity; it flows from it. Indeed, Pope Leo spoke warmly about Catholic schools being open to those who do not share our faith, while also stressing that they should remain confident in their distinctive mission.

 

The Gospel calls us to recognise the dignity of every person and to build communities shaped by love, respect, and compassion. At the same time, we should never be hesitant in speaking about Jesus Christ or in giving young people opportunities to pray, explore their faith and recognise God at work in their lives.

 

This is where our vision of A Family in Christ becomes especially important. It reminds us that we share one mission and that we are stronger when we support one another.

 

That sense of family extends beyond our schools. It was a great joy recently to celebrate the ordination of Father Dan Howarth to the priesthood. His ordination is a wonderful sign of hope and a reminder that God continues to call people to serve.

 

Our schools have an important part to play in helping young people discover their own vocation. For some, that will be marriage and family life; for others, service through work or community. For some, it may be priesthood or religious life.

 

Whatever path they follow, our hope is that every young person leaves our schools knowing that they are loved by God, that their life has purpose, and that their gifts can make a difference.

 

When we work together, keep Christ at the centre and support one another, we become more than a collection of schools. We become what we are called to be: A Family in Christ.