There has been so much positive conversation across our staff following our day with David Wells.
Throughout the day we were really challenged by the reminder to not let our ‘how’ become our ‘why’ and recognised the danger of making business the “primary homily of our lives.”
Teaching life is busy and can become all consuming. But David reminded us that we don’t get out of bed to improve data, but rather to “make people’s lives better.” Catholic schools are human institutions – we exist to help our young people be fully alive and we do this best by being authentic witnesses of virtue and joyful messengers of the Good News.
Teaching in Catholic schools can be really challenging, as our role is seen not just as a job but as a vocation, and often the impact of what we do is unseen and “unmeasurable.” But David reminded us that we do it not for gratification but because we have been called. So with joy and courage we have taken up the challenge to hold onto our why, not take ourselves too seriously, refocus and make sure our lives not just about “crossing off your list” but that we are glorifying God by being “fully alive”!
By Mrs Monique Harris, Leader of Learning Religious Education
