Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki
Archbishop of Milwaukee
 

This is Catholic Schools Week and I was out early on Monday to celebrate Mass for the faculty and students of Christ King Parish in Wauwatosa. I have to admit that I received a very, very, very, cold reception. It wasn’t because of the Pastor Father Phil Bogacki or Associate Father John Burns, they both have been long-time supporters of Catholic Education and they are personally good friends of mine. It wasn’t because of the principal, Dr. Kevin Hughes or the faculty. They were very pleasant and enthusiastic. It wasn’t because of the congregation made up of parents, relatives and parishioners. They were certainly proud of their school and their presence was a demonstration of that fact. It wasn’t even because of the students who were tremendous participants in the sacrifice of the Mass; adding their voices in the songs, the readings and intercessions as well as serving at the altar. It was simply because it was six degrees below zero and that’s very, very, very, cold.

As I addressed the students at the beginning of the Mass, I reminded them that although in a certain sense they may have felt gypped by the fact that their public school, and some Catholic school, counterparts were off due to the extremely cold weather, those students will have to make up the lost class day later in the school year and they, will be at home enjoying the fruits of their “cold labor.”
 
After Mass, I was invited to visit a few of the classrooms (kindergarten, first and second grade). In the kindergarten classroom, the students presented me with a gift that had pictures of the students. Each of them was holding a letter which spelled out “FAITH.” The young students went on to explain what faith means. It was obvious that a Catholic foundation was being formed in them and would be with them for the rest of their lives.
 
In the first grade classroom I asked the students what their favorite part of the school day was. Of course you never know how the young students will answer. Recess and snacktime are typically the popular responses. However, one young student added a new one to the list by saying “bathroom breaks.” I acknowledged as you get older those bathroom breaks are certainly important!
 
The second grade was preparing for the sacraments of reconciliation and first holy Communion. I have always considered first holy Communion the most important day of my life, understanding that Jesus Christ is received and becomes the food for our journey through life.
 
As I finished my visit I noticed that it was markedly warmer not only outside, but inside as well because of the great spirit generated by this Catholic community which was clearly dedicated to Catholic Education. Catholic Education is so important not only because it attempts to form the mind, but also because it captures the heart so that we can live as Jesus taught us: remembering to LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Note: This blog originally appeared as the January 28, 2014 "Love One Another" email sent to Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of Milwaukee by Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki. If you are interested in signing up for these email messages, please click here.