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In an era of cultural, theological and ecclesial change, a Catholic school’s identity is fundamental to its existence: when it ceases to be Catholic, then for all purposes, it ceases to exist.
The religious character and mission of Catholic schools are the unique characteristics that distinguish them – both as educational institutions, and as agencies that help to hand on Catholic religious traditions and teachings.
This book contains a mixture of educationally focused insights, along with historical, pastoral and theological perspectives. Mission, identity, and teaching in a Catholic school are explored – as are the school’s links to the parish and the family.
The Church’s teaching and understanding of the Bible and sacraments – as well as prayer, liturgy, and particularly the Mass – are explained. This book also presents the essential elements of a school’s charism; Catholic social teaching; the Religious Education program; and the Church’s view in the care of the environment.
Working in a Catholic School offers a practical response to what could be called the new reality of Catholic education. It will equip you and your community to ensure the most effective Catholic school education.
”Working in a Catholic School is a timely and valuable tool for those within the educating ministry of the Catholic Church, and certainly for those entering it. It recognises the contemporary issues needed in teacher formation within the vast ‘change of era’ that Pope Francis has identified, while taking nothing from the past. The plain English, accessibility and photographs all illuminate the joyful possibility of what Catholic Education offers, while inviting young teachers into a wider understanding of what it means … a little gem!”
– Gary Reen, Assistant Director, Leadership Team, Mission Services
Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools Office
Dr Angelo Belmonte is Team Leader of Faith, Learning and Teaching at Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst. He has been involved in Catholic Education for 35 years and has held leadership positions in schools and in school administration, such as Schools Consultant and, for a time, Acting Executive Director of Schools. For many years he has been leading Religious Education, teacher formation, and student ministry programs in the diocese. As well as his initial teacher qualifications, he also holds master’s degrees in Religious Education/Theology and Educational Leadership, as well as a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Queensland in the leadership and formation of Principals in Catholic schools.
Dr Sandra Harvey is currently Head of Evangelisation and Religious Education in the Diocese of Wagga Wagga. Her passion for Catholic Education is evident in her commitment over many years as both a student and educator, across four Australian States including Victoria, Northern Territory, Tasmania and New South Wales. This has included teaching and leading in a remote Aboriginal Community, and in rural, regional and urban settings.
Sandra’s roles in Catholic Education have included System Leadership: as Head of Education, Mission, System and School Improvement; School Leadership: as Principal, Deputy Principal and Religious Education Coordinator; teacher at grade levels from Prep to Year 10 and tertiary level.
Richard Rymarz is Professor of Education, University of Notre Dame Australia. His involvement in teaching, researching and writing about Catholic education spans several decades. Professor Rymarz has worked at BBI-TAITE, ACU and was the Peter and Doris Kule Chair of Catholic Education at St Joseph’s College, University of Alberta.
His most recent work has focused on formation and support of teachers working in schools; the changing cultural context in which Catholic schools operate; and Catholic schools in regional and remote areas. Professor Rymarz has an abiding interest in RE resources for students.
