Catholic educators marking significant years of service were honored as “educators of hope” during the annual teacher appreciation luncheon held on October 30 by the Office of Catholic Schools. The event recognized 174 teachers who have served in Catholic schools for milestone periods ranging from five to forty years.

Amy Nall, superintendent of schools, referenced Pope Leo’s recent apostolic letter on Catholic education, “Drawing New Maps of Hope,” reminding those present that, “To educate is an act of hope.” Nall told the educators, “You know that faith and hope are essential to Catholic education.”

“This mission cannot be captured in test scores or enrollment figures or in championship banners,” she said. “True transformation of hearts, of minds and of lives — those unfold quietly, over time. Sometimes you never know.”

Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre addressed the teachers as well, emphasizing that their work not only serves students but also affects their own spiritual lives. “Hopefully we, too, are changed by this ministry. … Jesus Christ also ministers to us through that ministry that we offer to others,” he said.

The archbishop shared memories of his first-grade teacher, Sister Rosetta from the Sisters of the Holy Ghost, who recently passed away. He recalled her strict approach but credited her with having a profound influence on his life because she aimed to form her students into disciples of Jesus Christ.

Among those recognized was Liesl Minneci from Holy Spirit School, celebrating five years with the archdiocese. She reflected on her personal growth through teaching: “As I’m giving them information and we’re talking about the faith, I learn things that I’ve forgotten or haven’t noticed before,” she said. “They energize me. I couldn’t see myself doing anything else.”

Charles (Charlie) Gonzalez from St. Patrick School also marked five years as an educator and described his work as giving him purpose: “What we do on an everyday basis and over time can make a difference,” he said.

The luncheon included recognition for educators reaching milestones at intervals from five up to forty years. Additionally, Rick Heim was posthumously recognized for 30 years at Sacred Heart and Tom McAnally for 55 years at DeSales.