Gathered with His disciples around a table the evening before He would lay down His life for salvation, Jesus said to Thomas, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (Jn. 14:6). Each December, Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, both Son of God and Son of Man. According to Christian belief, God became human to teach people who they were created to be and how to restore their relationships with Him, each other, and the world. Before sin entered the world, these relationships existed in harmony; since then, humanity lives in a wounded world needing redemption. Christians believe Jesus came to show them the way back to God.

Jesus left His Church as a gift so that believers can work together for salvation. God has entrusted everyone with gifts and talents intended for common good rather than personal use. These gifts are believed to be infused into each person’s soul even before birth. Over time, individuals learn how to use these gifts effectively so they may yield intended fruits.

During his 2008 visit to the United States, Pope Benedict XVI spoke about education's role in this process: “Education is integral to the mission of the Church to proclaim the Good News... In this way those who meet Him are drawn by...the Gospel...” (Address at The Catholic University of America, April 17, 2008).

The mission of Catholic Schools is seen as providing a space where individuals can encounter God and learn who they were created to be. It is a place where desires and aspirations placed by God are nurtured according to divine truths. This experience benefits students enrolled in Catholic schools throughout an archdiocese and contributes positively to society as young people become disciples of Jesus.

As Catholic Schools Week approaches at month's end, there is acknowledgment for all involved: parents, teachers, administrators, staff members, volunteers—and students themselves—working together on this endeavor.

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