The start of a new school year always brings with it a sense of possibility, excitement, and renewal. This year, as nearly 18,000 students return to our 50 Catholic schools across the Diocese of Columbus, we do so under a theme that is especially fitting: Anchored in Hope.
Hope in the context of our Catholic faith is the confident assurance that God is faithful to His promises. It is the anchor that keeps us steady amid the storms of life, and the compass that orients us toward heaven. This theme was chosen in prayerful discernment by the Office of Catholic Schools as a way of reminding ourselves that, no matter what challenges may come, our foundation in Jesus Christ is secure.
The theme connects beautifully with the universal Church. Pope Francis has declared 2025 a Jubilee Year, and he has chosen the theme Pilgrims of Hope. A Jubilee is a time of renewal, reconciliation, and celebration of God’s mercy. To be pilgrims of hope means we are not only anchored in Christ but also moving forward together in faith, journeying toward the fullness of life that God desires for us.
In that spirit, many of our school administrators will make a special pilgrimage to Rome this fall for the Jubilee of Educators. Accompanied by Bishop Earl Fernandes, our principals and school leaders will spend time in prayer, study, and renewal at the heart of the Church. It is my hope that this pilgrimage will strengthen them in their vocation as Catholic school leaders and allow them to return with renewed zeal for their mission. Their example will help to anchor our entire school community in hope.
Of course, none of what we do in Catholic schools would be possible without the dedication of our teachers and administrators. These men and women are not simply employees—they are witnesses of the Gospel. Every lesson taught, every hallway conversation, every moment of prayer is an opportunity for them to witness to Christ and to form disciples. Their service in education is demanding, but it is also beautiful, and I am profoundly grateful for their service.
I am also deeply grateful to our parents. By choosing Catholic education, you are making a bold statement about what matters most in the life of your family. You are prioritizing faith formation alongside academic excellence, and you are entrusting your children to the care of a community that sees them as beloved sons and daughters of God. Thank you for making that choice, and for partnering with us in the sacred work of forming young people in truth, goodness, and beauty.
As we enter this new academic year, let us all take inspiration from the words of St. Paul: “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure” (Hebrews 6:19). May our students, teachers, administrators, and families be anchored in hope—confident in God’s love, courageous in living the faith, and joyful in the journey ahead.
Catholic education is a gift, not only for those who receive it but for the whole Church. When our students grow in holiness, knowledge, and service, the entire Body of Christ is strengthened. Let us pray for one another, support one another, and remain anchored in the hope that does not disappoint.
May this year be a time of grace, growth, and great joy for all of our Catholic schools.
Related to: Congratulations to the Class of 2025