London, England, Sep 17, 2010 / 03:56 am
Catholic identity must be present in every aspect of Catholic schools, but, moreso, the life of faith must be their “driving force,” Benedict XVI told U.K. religious teachers today. Religious are a “powerful reminder” of this in schools, he said, as they form individuals who can “live life to the full” and ensure a safe environment for children.
The Holy Father met with 300 teaching religious at St. Mary's University College after celebrating a private Mass in the Apostolic Nunciature first thing Friday morning. The event took place in the intimate, candlelit atmosphere of the university's chapel, where participants were treated to organ music and the university choir.
First expressing his “deep appreciation” for all men and women in education, the Pope reminded teachers that the knowledge and faith, but also the sense of maturity and responsibility of citizens, is in their hands.
He spoke of the “transcendental dimension of study and teaching,” that “education is not and must never be considered as purely utilitarian,” but is about “forming the human person, equipping him or her to live life to the full.”
In brief, he said, “it is about imparting wisdom," which, in its "true" form, "is inseparable from the Creator.”