Bishop Thompson To Teachers:
After greeting more than 500 teachers and administrators who attended the 2015-16 diocesan back-to-school Mass, held Aug. 3 at St. Benedict Cathedral, Bishop Charles C. Thompson quoted St. Mother Theodore Guerin.
“I visited the Sisters of Providence at St. Mary7-of-the-Woods,” he said, and one of their displays honoring St. Mother Theodore included a quote from her that really caught my eye,” he said. “It said, ‘Love the children first, and then teach them.’”
He noted that the Gospel reading from Matthew recounted the miracle of the loaves and the fishes. “We hear that Jesus was moved with compassion for the people, so he healed them, fed them and taught them,” the bishop said. “He was moved with compassion.
“If we don’t love,” he continued, “our teaching becomes a chore. And it becomes a chore that we eventually start despising.” Bishop Thompson then discussed his work in various roles over the years, and the opportunities he has had to observe those who view what they do as a job, or as a ministry.
“Those who view the work as just a job always have sad faces,” he said. “They always see the glass as half empty. Those who view their work as a ministry realize that they are vessels through which God’s grace works. Ministry is when we allow Christ to work through us. God’s grace, working through our gifts and talents, makes the ultimate difference. If we put our faith in Christ, what a difference it makes."
The bishop discussed his personal connection to the Catholic schools theme across the diocese for 2015-16 “Christ, the Cornerstone of Catholic Schools.” When he was named bishop of Evansville in 2011, he chose “Christ the Cornerstone” as his episcopal motto.
“This diocese is blessed to have such a strong Catholic education ministry,” he added. “It’s incredible for a diocese of our size.
“As you begin this year, remember that in Christ, there is never a moment to despair,” he continued. “There is never a moment without blessing. There is never a moment without grace.
“Trust in Christ as the cornerstone. He multiplies our gifts and our talents and abilities. That’s why we begin the school year here (at Mass). It is His body and blood that nourishes us and strengthens us. It gives us the proper perspective and direction, reminding us that throughout the year, whatever comes our way, we must trust in Him to provide what we need to carry out the mission entrusted to our care.
“Love the children first, then teach them,” he repeated. “Believe in God’s love for you, then share that love with them.”
Just before the Mass’ final blessing, Bishop Thompson joined Diocesan Superintendent of Schools Daryl Hagan and Assistant Superintendents Gwen Godsey and Michelle Prior to honor teachers who have reached “milestone” service years from 20 through 45.
He also thanked the 20 diocesan priests who concelebrated the Mass, and the four deacons who participated. He also recognized Hannah Brasher and the multi-school choir she directed for the Mass, and he thanked St. Benedict Rector Father Godfrey Mullen and the parish community for its hospitality.
