Monday, August 26, 2013

The mission of Catholic Schools: Daily Mass Homily--Monday, August 26th, 2013 (Catholic School Teachers day of reflection)


            I can relate well with St. Paul’s words to the Thessalonians this morning: “We give thanks to God always for all of you, remembering you in our prayers, unceasingly calling to mind your work of faith and labor of love and endurance in hope of our Lord Jesus Christ, before our God and Father, knowing, brothers and sisters loved by God, how you were chosen.” 
The we in this passage today refers to our bishop, priests, parents and parishioners around the Diocese.  We are all grateful for your service to teach our children at our Catholics schools and are proud of the work you do.  More than this, God Himself is pleased by your work of faith and labor of love.
            The goal of Catholic schools is simple: let the children come to me.  Teachers, bring your students to Jesus.  That is by far the most important part of your job and call.
            In order to bring your students to Jesus you must continually bring yourself to him.  Always remember that God delights in you.  He delights in you not only for the good work you do at school and at home.  He delights in you despite your weaknesses, sins and shortcomings.  He delights in you for you.  Period. 
            In His delight, God gives us simple ways to receive His love and mercy.  We begin our day together by coming to Mass—the source and summit of our faith and life.  We receive God Himself in our own bodies.  Wherever you are at in your faith, please come to Mass.  It is the place to experience how much God delights in you.
            God also gives us the sacrament of Confession.  Confession is the best.  A simple three to five minute—perhaps awkward—conversation and your sins are forgiven.  Boom.  Please come to Confession and experience God’s delight for you in His mercy.
            If you fall in love with God—if you fall in love with the Mass and Confession—your students will be led directly to Him.  Fall in love with the God who delights in you and continue to bring your students to Jesus.

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