As we journey through the Year of Jubilee, we are invited to walk as Pilgrims of Hope – people grounded in faith, committed to justice, and joyful in spirit.

In a world weighed down by war in Ukraine and the Middle East, unrest in places like Los Angeles, and growing division and uncertainty, hope can feel in short supply. But as Catholic educators, we’re called to model something different. Not denial of suffering – but defiant, Gospel-grounded hope in spite of it.

So what does that look like in our schools?

• Seeing with Jubilee eyes: We help students understand the world’s pain without becoming overwhelmed by it. We encourage prayer, kindness, and action – even small ones – as real responses to global conflict.

• Living as peacemakers: The classroom becomes a training ground for peace. By teaching respect, inclusion, and empathy, we’re forming young people who will carry those values into the world.

• Choosing Joy: In a culture that often thrives on outrage or despair; joy is a quiet act of resistance. Joy doesn’t ignore the news – it remembers the Good News.

The Jubilee is a spiritual test – a time to remember that we belong to each other, and to a God of mercy. And you, in your daily work, are part of that mission. In every welcome, every story shared, every prayer whispered in staff meetings or playground duty, you’re carrying the hope the world needs.

So thank you for walking this pilgrimage – not just with your feet, but with your heart.