Opinion

BACK TO SCHOOL: “GO FORTH AND BEAR FRUIT”

By DR. ERIN BARISANO, SUPERINTENDENT OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS FOR THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE     9/3/2024

AS THE SUMMER DAYS begin to wane and the excitement of a new school year fills the air, we gather once again as a vibrant Catholic school community, ready to embark on a journey of growth, learning and faith. This year, we embrace the theme: “Go Forth and Bear Fruit,” inspired by the words of Jesus in John 15:16. This call is not just a reminder of our mission but a challenge to each of us—students, teachers and families alike—to actively live out our faith and make a positive impact in the world.

In the Gospel of John, Jesus speaks of the importance of bearing fruit as a reflection of our relationship with Him. As Catholic schools, we are uniquely positioned to nurture this relationship in our students, encouraging them to grow in their faith, knowledge and service to others as stated in our mission. This year, let us re-commit ourselves to fostering an environment where our students can flourish spiritually, academically and socially.

At the heart of our mission is the formation of disciples who are rooted in their Catholic faith. This year, our schools will prioritize opportunities for prayer, worship and reflection, inviting our students to deepen their relationship with Christ.

Through daily prayers, Mass celebrations and retreats, we will create spaces for students to encounter God and understand their unique call to bear fruit in their lives. Catholic schools are called to cultivate not only the spiritual but also the intellectual growth of our students. Our commitment to academic excellence will remain steadfast as we provide rigorous and engaging programs that challenge our students to think critically and creatively.

By encouraging curiosity and a love for learning, we empower our students to develop the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. As they grow in knowledge, they will be better equipped to bear fruit in their future endeavors.

The theme “Go Forth and Bear Fruit” also calls us to action in our communities. Service is a vital expression of our faith, and we will strive to instill in our students a sense of responsibility and compassion for others. By putting their faith into action, our students will learn that bearing fruit often means serving others.

As we celebrate the first days of school, let us carry the spirit of “Go Forth and Bear Fruit” in our hearts. May this year be filled with opportunities for growth, connection and transformation. Together, we can cultivate a culture of faith, academic excellence and service that will inspire our students to bear fruit in their lives and in the world around them.