How do you as a teacher in a Catholic school - being the torchbearer or bearer of light - help pass the faith on to students?

Jan. 24, 2008

"I teach 3, 4, & 5 year olds in the early childhood program at Bishop Garrigan Schools. With small children it is necessary to incorporate faith into the day in small ways, more often. Whether the students are on the playground, in the class room, on a field trip or at lunch we give frequent but gentle reminders to use kind words, include everyone, share etc. We use the Golden Rule and WWJD (What Would Jesus Do) all year long." - Sue Salz, early childhood team, Bishop Garrigan Schools, Algona

"As a Kindergarten teacher I attempt to be a bearer of light to my students by teaching them about the Lord through songs, and stories but most importantly through examples of my actions." - Sandy Sawyer, a teacher at Sacred Heart School, Boone

"As a second grade teacher, I, along with my colleagues, have the responsibility and privilege of teaching the Sacraments of Reconciliation and the Holy Eucharist to Kuemper students each year. It is truly a year teachers are torchbearers as we help them prepare for a life of faith so that they in turn will be bearers of light to others." - Diane Forbes, second grade teacher, Kuemper Catholic School, Carroll

"As a bearer of light, I pass the faith on to my students in three distinct ways: By teaching them about Jesus and his life; by teaching them how to pray; and by the way I treat others. When I teach students about Jesus, I am helping them to learn to love others even those that are different from us. When I teach students how to pray, I am teaching them to talk to their loving Father in heaven. When I treat others with respect and compassion, I am teaching my students to do the same. We live our faith each time we show God's love to those around us. The light we share in our classroom does not just stay here: We share it with our families and friends when we walk out the door each day. Jesus' light lives in us!" - Margaret Junkman, transitional kindergarten teacher, St. Edmond Catholic School, Fort Dodge

"Being a teacher in a Catholic school gives me a wonderful opportunity to teach what Jesus taught. I appreciate the freedom I have to infuse Gospel values throughout the entire curriculum. Every day I strive to be a good role model for my students so they learn the importance of good character and service to others." - Linda Langel, first grade teacher at Spalding Catholic School, Hospers

"The Christian Leadership Team at Gehlen Catholic adopted a spiritual quote motto for the team some time ago in which to live. 1 Thes 5:11 reads "Encourage one another and build each other up". If this would be our sole focus each day as we jumped out of bed, what would the world be like? Imagine the possibilities! Energy from positive people or random acts of kindness has a rippling effect on people in which is contagious. My goal for the team as they lead their peers has been just that....ignite the Spirit within and radiate with Christ Jesus." - Lisa Sitzmann, director of campus ministries at Gehlen Catholic School, Le Mars

"As a social studies teacher I bring world events into my presentations. Students are asked to analyze the events drawing from their faith and morals. This also serves to strengthen against the peer pressure they face each and every day." - Steve Blair, a teacher at St. Mary's High School, Remsen

"Being a Catholic school teacher means I get to spend each day sharing my faith with my students. I make it my mission to influence my students the way my Catholic school teachers influenced me." - Rebecca Pick, third grade teacher, Holy Cross- Blessed Sacrament Center, Sioux City

"As a teacher in a Catholic school I help pass the faith on to students by working together with my colleagues in several ways. We work with each other as role models in the classroom. During our Friday masses and on weekend liturgies, we serve in various liturgical roles. We express the importance of volunteering our time, talent, and treasure to the parish by doing so. We continue to build the Kingdom of God each and every day. We proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ because our school community has been enriched by God's gift of faith. We build on that and create a faith filled future for our children, our school, and our parish. Catholic Schools' Week provides an excellent opportunity to demonstrate to the community what Catholic school parents, administrators, teachers, and students have known all along--that we are truly forming a future full of faith and promise. Our school is strong and vibrant because of the faith that we share. WE ARE LIGHTING THE WAY!" -Michele Lauck, fourth grade teacher at Sacred Heart School in Spencer