Archbishop Leo's Message for Catholic Education Week

Catholic Education Week 2023 takes place from April 30 – May 5. The theme for this year is: We are many, we are one.

Please see below a letter issued by Archbishop Francis Leo:

My dear friends, 

Christus resurrexit! Resurrexit vere! Be assured of my continued prayers for you as we celebrate the joy of the resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ, this Easter Season. 

Each spring throughout the province, we have an opportunity to celebrate Catholic Education Week, which takes place this year from April 30 – May 5, 2023. It is fitting that the celebration begins on Sunday, the Lord’s Day, reminding us that our parish home provides a place of welcome where we can gather to pray and spend time with God and one another. 

Although I have only recently arrived in this archdiocese, I join with you in giving thanks and acknowledging the wonderful work of the six school boards and 500 publicly funded Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Toronto. 

The theme for Catholic Education Week this year is, “We are many, we are one”, inspired by the scriptural passage in Romans 12:5, which tells us: “We, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members, one of another.” The theme, which was likewise inspired largely by the Synod on Synodality, places an emphasis on intentional listening: listening not only to each other, but also - importantly - listening to the Holy Spirit. We are all called to journey together as one body, to listen and to teach and in doing so, to transform. 

In a special way, I look forward to listening to all of you who are engaged in Catholic education throughout the archdiocese. I think of the parish, home and school partnership, essential as we sow the seeds of faith in our community, drawing on the gifts of educators, support staff, students, parents, religious and clergy, all of whom play an important role in nurturing the integral development and faith journey of our young people. 

Most importantly, let us pray for the students who bring life, energy and joy to the halls of Catholic schools each day. We must continue to give them our time, attention and loving care. 

Thank you for all that you continue to do to strengthen and promote Catholic education in the Archdiocese of Toronto! In the weeks and months ahead, I look forward to getting to know better and accompanying our Catholic educators and young people as we celebrate and share our faith together. 

May the Blessed Mother, whom we venerate with special devotion in the month of May, continue to present us and intercede for us with her son, Jesus. 

Sincerely Yours in Jesus with Mary, 

Most Rev. Francis Leo
Archbishop of Toronto