This year we are encouraging our school communities in the Diocese of Derry, to develop a greater sense of gratitude to God, to recognise, as Saint Paul says in Corinthians 1, that they ‘have been enriched’ and will continue to be enriched, in ‘ so many ways’. These resources will assist schools with this and will be built upon throughout the year.
Developing the virtue of gratitude can help to shape our outlook on life. Becoming more aware of the ways in which we have been and will be enriched through the day-to-day encounters and happenings in our lives, enables us to acknowledge the sacredness of what we do each day. It helps us to become more aware of the vocation we have received from God, more aware that Christ has and is strong among us and no matter what we face Jesus, as Saint Paul says ‘will keep us steady’.
Developing the virtue of gratitude in a school community will also help shape the life of the school community. Through gratitude to God for the gift each member is to that community, the school will become more aware of its mission to be the presence of Jesus in the world today.
Resources
- Beginning of School Year Liturgy led by Bishop Donal McKeown
- Beginning of School Year Staff Reflection 2022
- Reflection Questions for School Staff August 2022
- Gratitude Banners
