Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

The Diocese of Springfield in Illinois is implementing new initiatives to strengthen the Catholic identity of its schools. The diocesan Office for Catholic Education has been working on these changes to ensure that teachers, students, and parents are better prepared to live as disciples of Christ.

Dr. Mark Newcomb, Director of Catholic Education for the diocese, explained in an interview with Andrew Hansen from Catholic Times how a pastoral letter issued by Bishop Thomas John Paprocki in 2023 prompted a shift in focus towards reinforcing authentic Catholic teaching. The document outlined seven key hallmarks for schools claiming a Catholic identity.

Newcomb highlighted concerning statistics showing that 80 to 90 percent of Catholic children lose their faith between adolescence and early adulthood. This crisis motivated the diocese to take action. According to data from the General Sociological Survey, only 14 percent of those raised as Catholics identify as such in adulthood.

In response, the diocese has introduced several educational programs aimed at reinforcing faith among students. Teachers are receiving additional formation through online courses provided by the Evermode Institute and attending annual "Day of Reflection" events. The Ruah Woods Theology of the Body curriculum has been implemented in about a third of the schools, with plans for further expansion.

Additionally, courses developed by Father Robert J. Spitzer have been adopted across all schools to integrate scientific reasoning with religious education. These programs help break down subject silos and ensure that faith is not separated from academic learning.

Looking ahead, Newcomb mentioned plans to transition to a new accreditation structure under the Western Catholic Educational Association. This will allow for measurable outcomes related to new programs and faculty training during accreditation visits.