It was quite by accident that we eighth graders found out that our no-nonsense eighth grade teacher, Ms. Anderson, was working a second job as a supermarket cashier as soon as she finished teaching for the day. She absentmindedly left her Acme smock on her desk chair while we were stuck inside during a rainy lunch recess. When we asked about our discovery later that afternoon, she replied matter-of-factly: “Being able to teach the faith is worth working another job. You’re worth it. End of discussion.”
I think of Ms. Anderson’s words often when it comes to the Church’s mission of providing Catholic education. So many parents and teachers make great sacrifices to guarantee that our young people receive the Gospel formation necessary to become faithful followers of Christ and compassionate human beings.
Here at Immaculate Conception parish and St. Jude mission church, we are blessed to have a dedicated group of volunteer catechists who love our young people and desire nothing more than to see them grow in their faith and love of God. Many of these teachers and aides make great sacrifices to serve our community after having worked long days themselves. On behalf of the parents and guardians who entrust a portion of faith formation to these teachers, I thank them for the ways they make the Gospel come to life. My gratitude, too, overflows in abundance to Mrs. Vickie Eichler and Mrs. Mare Draper who do so much behind the scenes to strengthen and energize our religious education programs. The deanery is still abuzz over the success of our Summer Academy!
Please continue to pray for and support our religious education programs at ICSJ. If you are interested in volunteering or contributing in any way to the good work that is happening here, we would be grateful to have you join us (reledoff@gmail.com). Also, keep your eyes open for more exciting developments in the works, including an up-and-coming group for parent-parishioners with young children who can support each other as they make their way in the world with our faith and friendship to support them.
After all, as Ms. Anderson would undoubtedly offer from her Acme check-out line: “Religious education is worth it. You’re worth it. End of discussion.”