As we approach the end of the summer, and prepare for another school year, it’s appropriate to ask what our vision is for our Catholic schools and for the children and families they serve.

By definition, a “vision statement” must, express a profound hope for the future. This doesn’t mean that we are somehow failing in our efforts now. It simply suggests that we must grow and change to meet the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead of us. So, for example, if we say that our vision for Catholic schools is that they be Alive in Christ! we don’t necessarily mean that they are not now. What we mean is that spiritual growth and vitality—along with growth in educational excellence, enrollment and financial stability—are essential as we move confidently into the future.

Catholic schools are challenged to continue the teaching of Jesus. They help adults, youth and children come to a deeper understanding of God’s plan for all creation. Catholic schools help members of the Catholic community, and others from many diverse faiths, cultures and economic backgrounds, grow intellectually, personally and spiritually. Catholic schools are also vital to the social ministry of the Church—through the assistance they provide to students and families in need but also in their commitment to teaching social justice and to providing students with opportunities to serve others.

Catholic schools contribute directly to the health and vitality of the Church. Along with parish religious education programs, youth ministry and other means of lifelong faith formation and education, our Catholic schools provide religious education classes, sacramental preparation, liturgical and prayer experiences, and opportunities for Christian witness and service. They help form the faith community, and they challenge us to look beyond our own needs to the urgent needs of individuals, families and society at large.

Considering the powerful effect that Catholic schools have on the lives of individuals, families and local communities, it is understandably painful—even tragic—when a school closes. Research confirms what most of us know already: When a Catholic school closes it is almost always because of finances. But what this research also tells us is that we don’t have to accept school closings as inevitable. We can help our schools become stronger financially, but only if they are truly Alive in Christ!, growing in their Catholic identity, welcoming new (and increasingly diverse) students, and increasing their capacity for financial management and fundraising especially through stewardship education and endowment development.

All Catholic schools should be Alive in Christ! They should demonstrate a vibrant, hope-filled spirit that proclaims to the whole world that Christ is alive and active—in our homes, in our parishes and school communities and in our world. Every Catholic school should be a vibrant community of faith that is carrying out the teaching ministry of Jesus in ways that are visible, transformative and service-oriented.

Let’s thank God for all our Catholic schools and wish them a school year that is  Alive in Christ!