A message from Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., for Catholic Schools Week 2026
I had the privilege of meeting Pope Leo XIV for the first time recently, and I was deeply moved by the warmth, joy and pastoral attentiveness he radiated as he greeted pilgrims gathered in Rome for the conclusion of the Jubilee of Hope. In his presence, one sensed a shepherd who truly believes in the promise of the Church’s future — especially as it is nurtured through Catholic education.
Earlier in his pontificate, the Holy Father wrote, “The Catholic school is an environment in which faith, culture and life intertwine. It is not simply an institution, but rather a living environment in which the Christian vision permeates every discipline and every interaction” (Apostolic Letter Drawing New Maps of Hope, art. 5.2, October 27, 2025). These words beautifully capture the essence of what we celebrate during Catholic Schools Week 2026.
This year’s theme, “Catholic Schools — United in Faith and Community,” invites us to reflect on the distinctive gift our schools offer to the Church and to society. Catholic schools are not merely places where students receive an excellent education — though they certainly do that well. They are communities of belonging, where faith is shared, values are lived, and young people are formed to see themselves as beloved sons and daughters of God, called to serve others.
In a world marked by division, loneliness and rapid change, our Catholic schools stand as signs of unity and hope. Pope Leo XIV reminds us, “In Catholic schools, no one walks alone. The child who learns, the teacher who guides, and the family who accompanies are bound together by a shared journey toward truth and love” (Address to Catholic Educators, January 15, 2026). Our schools teach students not only how to think critically, but how to live faithfully — how to listen, to forgive, to build bridges and to recognize Christ in one another.
As Bishop of the Diocese of Trenton, I am profoundly grateful for the educators, administrators, and diocesan staff who make this vision a reality each day. Their work is more than a profession; it is a vocation and a ministry. Through patience, creativity and quiet sacrifice, they form classrooms that reflect the Gospel. As Pope Leo XIV has said, “A Catholic teacher does not simply transmit information, but offers a witness — showing by word and example how faith gives meaning to every aspect of life.” Our teachers and leaders remind us that Catholic education is ultimately about forming hearts as well as minds.
I am continually inspired by our students. In their generosity, resilience, and joy, I see the future of the Church. Whether they are gathered in prayer at Mass, reaching out to the poor through service, or supporting one another in moments of difficulty, they show us what it truly means to be united in faith. Community, they teach us, is built through everyday acts of kindness, respect, and shared purpose. As the Holy Father beautifully expressed, “When young people learn to pray together, to serve together, and to hope together, the Church is renewed.”
But even as we celebrate and give thanks for the gift of Catholic schools, we also have to acknowledge with honesty that several of our schools face real and intractable challenges — especially declining enrollment and the financial strain that follows. We have been blessed for the past several years that no schools in the Diocese of Trenton have had to close. The decision to close a school is never taken lightly and we know all too well that it represents a loss felt deeply by students, families, alumni, and parish communities. The grief is real because these schools have been places where faith took root, friendships were formed, and generations were shaped by the Gospel. And so, while we continue to hope and work for the flourishing of every school in our Diocese, we must also be realistic and responsible stewards of our resources, always discerning how to sustain the mission entrusted to us. We know that difficult decisions lie ahead and we will address them with prayerful concern for all.
To our parents and guardians, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Your decision to choose Catholic education — often at great personal sacrifice — is a powerful act of faith. You are the first educators of your children, and your partnership with our schools strengthens our entire diocesan family. Together, you help create environments where children grow not only in knowledge, but also in virtue, compassion, and a deep sense of belonging. Pope Leo XIV affirms this partnership, writing, “The family and the Catholic school walk side by side, united in the sacred task of forming young hearts for God and for the world.”
During Catholic Schools Week, I invite everyone in our diocese—parishioners, alumni, benefactors, and friends—to pray for and support our schools. Pray that our students may continue to grow in wisdom and grace. Pray that our teachers and staff may be renewed in their calling. Pray that our parishes and communities may remain generous in sustaining this vital ministry. Let us remember and pray for those school communities who are facing uncertainty. Above all, pray that our schools may always be places where faith is lived joyfully and unity in Christ is made visible.
May this Catholic Schools Week renew our shared commitment to building communities of faith, hope, and love. Trusting in the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and through the loving intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church, we look to the future with confidence and gratitude—united in faith, united in community, and united in Christ.
Photo caption: Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., joins Father Leandro Dela Cruz, pastor; Ameriquin Dalmasy-Laccetti, head of school; and students from St. Ann School, Lawrenceville, during Catholic Schools Week 2025. Rose O’Connor photo.