Catholic school teachers and administrators in Louisville gathered at St. Albert the Great Church on August 5 for the Archdiocese of Louisville’s annual back-to-school Mass. The event marked the beginning of a new academic year and offered educators an opportunity to reconnect after the summer break.

Amy Nall, who has taken over as superintendent of Catholic schools from Dr. Mary Beth Bowling, welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude for their dedication to Catholic education.

Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre led the Mass and addressed those present in his homily, emphasizing the significance of their work. “Often, we focus only on the purpose of Catholic education for the students who attend Catholic schools, forgetting that ministry within a Catholic school should also strengthen the faith and the call to holiness of all the adults involved in ministry there,” he told the congregation.

He stressed that educators’ own spiritual development is crucial to their effectiveness: “Our personal commitment to holiness and our daily efforts to strive to be the best person form an important part of the foundation of our effectiveness as educators in Catholic schools.”

Archbishop Fabre also highlighted that Catholic education is designed not just for academic instruction but also for sharing Gospel values and guiding students’ spiritual growth. “Spiritual growth complements academic learning, and it is this holistic approach that will inspire and motivate students,” he said.

After Mass, participants heard a keynote address from Dr. F. DeKarlos Blackmon, vice chancellor for pastoral services.

The official start date for most Catholic schools in Louisville is August 12; however, some have already started classes while others are set to begin soon.