Lent is proving a transformational time in our schools

by Vince Anch

The Lenten season can be so transformative for Catholics. I have always made sacrifices like giving up sweets, which is so hard for me, and increased my prayer life and spiritual reading.

Our Catholic school students are doing the same things and even more. Many of our schools sponsor “charity days,” where they will volunteer at Catholic Charities and other important social service agencies. Some will serve at food pantries, participate in food drives and collect donations for pregnancy centers and shelters.

Our schools are also hosting more Masses, eucharistic adoration time, reconciliation opportunities and homework assignments that reflect our faith and desire to become closer to Christ.

This is just one issue that differentiates our Catholic schools from other schools. Faith formation is a valuable aspect to the growth and development of our students. Our students are developing academically, emotionally and spiritually every day. They do this throughout the year, but more so during the season of Lent. It’s very powerful to witness our students in the deep prayer that takes place in classrooms and Masses. I believe that our children are developing in their faith journeys more today than ever.

With so many negative things happening in our world like wars, violence, crime and ugly politics we need strong prayer lives to stay positive, fight off the darkness and, frankly, save the world. Our youth are leading the way for us.

The Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) is so thankful to our supporters, school parents, principals and teachers for creating an atmosphere were Christ is the center of our students’ lives. This year, CEF is sponsoring approximately 1,900 children with financial aid scholarships so children from low-income households can afford to attend a Catholic school. We cannot thank our donors enough for the impact they are making in our children’s lives and their families. Supporting the academic and faith formation of our youth has an immeasurable impact on our world. We owe our youth special appreciation and prayers for the examples they are setting and the impact they are making.

There is something truly transformational happening among our youth. Please pray that this continues and spreads to our adult population and our non-Catholic brothers and sisters.

I hope that during this Lenten season all members of our Catholic community learn from our students and take the time to reflect on our own faith formation.