Photo Caption: Msgr. Willliam Watson distributes Communion during an all-school Mass at Peoria Notre Dame High School. Catholic Schools Week is Jan. 29 to Feb. 4.

Jan. 22, 2012

My dear friends,

From January 29th through February 4th, nationally and in the Diocese of Peoria, Catholic Schools Week will take place, our annual celebration of Catholic education. This year’s theme is “Catholic Schools: Faith. Academics. Service.” What is wonderful about this theme is that it succinctly expresses three priorities that make Catholic schools stand out from other educational institutions.

At Catholic schools, our children and young people learn faith, not just the basics of Christianity, but how to have a relationship with God. They benefit from high academic standards, which help each student reach his or her potential. They also learn the importance of service, both as an expression of faith and a manifestation of good citizenship. This focus on faith, academics and service prepares students for meaningful lives in their families, communities and the Catholic Church.

During Catholic Schools Week, our Catholic Schools will open their doors to the parishes and the community so that all can share in its culture of faith, academics and service. I encourage you to take part and to ask friends and neighbors to visit the schools also, particularly those considering Catholic education for their own children.

I hope that you will join me in expressing heartfelt appreciation to the teachers, staffs, administrators, board members and volunteers at our Catholic Schools for the important work they do on behalf of our children and young people. They truly make our schools stand out.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

+Most Reverend Daniel R. Jenky, C.S.C.
BISHOP OF PEORIA