Last Sunday Bishop Philip issued a pastoral letter that was read out in every church of the Portsmouth diocese. Putting aside my views on reading out letters instead of giving a homily for a moment, there was something else that has really made me think.
The letter implies that it's really important to be "drawing in Catholic teacher not currently in the Catholic sector" No, no, no. What use of more Catholic teachers in Catholic schools? Pupils there already receive a good formation, they often have daily mass, reflection time, built-in prayer during the day and a chaplain at hand. Being a Catholic teacher might help you to fit in and really subscribe to the spirituality of the school, but I don't think this brings any added benefit to your young people.
Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of Catholic schools. But since not every school in the world is Catholic, I feel like it is increasingly important to have Catholic teachers in non-Catholic schools. Of course all teachers should be kind, understanding and committed to the wellbeing and success of their students, but those who believe in Jesus have a special responsibilities as those who have seen the Light. We shouldn't expect any less from ourselves as apostoles than making sure every child we encounter, and every member of staff, regardless of where we are placed, sees that we bring a message of love.
I don't think we need more Catholic teachers in Catholic schools. We need more love in every single classroom in the country. That's all.
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