Enter into new school year with ‘attitude of gratitude’

Dear Young Church, My Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Welcome back to school!

I am sure by the time you receive this letter you will be back into the routine. In some ways you will be glad to do so, and, in other ways, you are still longing for that free time that you had during the summer.

As we start this new school year, I would ask you to join me in thanking all those who make it possible for you to be in school, to grow in knowledge and to grow in the ways of Christ.

First of all, we thank your parents who love you and care for you and make sure that you have quality education.

We also thank your principals and teachers who give themselves in a special way through Catholic schools and public schools. They help to instill in you the knowledge that you need now and in the future.

We also thank those who provide for your religious education and Christian formation. The religion teachers in our various schools, as well as the catechetical leaders in your parish and the teachers who assist them, help you grow in faith. These women and men believe in you, they see Christ in you and they are giving of their time to form you in the ways of Christ and to help you to learn more about the Church.

As you know, education is indeed a gift and a unique one in the United States. Let us make sure that we do not take for granted the many opportunities that are given to you. In the mission world, there are many girls and boys your age who do not have the opportunity for education, or they go to school but do not have pencils, paper, textbooks and certainly no technology.

This is a reminder to be grateful for the gift of education and to use it in a way that you will grow in faith and in knowledge.

Wishing you God’s blessings, I am your brother in Christ,

Most Rev. Gregory M. Aymond
Archbishop of New Orleans