The mission of publicly funded Catholic Education was on full display during Catholic Education Week at the Intermediate Scripture Reading Event, where more than 90 Grade 7 and 8 students from across the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board gathered at Bishop Ryan Catholic Secondary School to passionately proclaim the word of God.
Sponsored by the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association (OECTA) – Hamilton-Wentworth Elementary Unit and the HWCDSB Trustees, the event—held during Catholic Education Week—provided a wonderful opportunity for students to give witness to our faith through their reverent proclamation of the Good News of the Gospel.
Welcoming students, families, staff, and special guests, Co-chair Caitlin Cunningham opened the evening with a reflection on this year’s Catholic Education Week theme, “We Are Called to Love,” and the Jubilee Year’s call to be “Pilgrims of Hope.”
“As we celebrate Catholic Education Week, let us pause to answer the call to be pilgrims of hope—bringing light to the world through our actions and serving others as Christ served,” she shared.
More than just a reading exercise, the Scripture event invited students to proclaim a passage of scripture, before their peers, families, teachers and other guests.
“We offer our heartfelt thanks to our Intermediate Scripture participants,” said Co-chair David Paone. “Each of you bravely stepped forward on your faith journey to represent your school. With thoughtful consideration, you chose a Scripture passage that spoke to you and shared it respectfully with your community. Your participation tonight was an inspiring witness to your faith.”
Chairperson Patrick Daly brought greetings on behalf of the Board of Trustees and offered special thanks to those who helped make this valuable event possible.
“I want to thank our partners from the OECTA Hamilton-Wentworth Unit for their long-standing partnership with our board in support of this and a number of other events,” he said. “Your continued support gives witness to your commitment to Catholic education and to the well-being of our students.”
“In a special way, I would like to thank our principals, vice-principals, support staff, and especially our classroom teachers whose faith-filled service and tremendous Christian Witness transforms the lives of students and as well makes a significant positive contribution to publicly funded Catholic Education.
Director of Education David Hansen called the Scripture Reading event “a jewel in the crown of our school board,” pointing to the long-standing collaboration between OECTA and the Trustees that has helped shape generations of student faith formation.
“This event is a beautiful expression of what Catholic education is all about — the opportunity for our students to proclaim the Gospel,” he said.
Quoting Pope Francis, Hansen reminded the audience, “The Gospel is the good news of God’s love, and it’s meant to bring joy and peace to everyone — and we must proclaim it with joy and courage.”
“Your choice to read, reflect on, and share the Word of God tonight is not only deepening your own faith,” he added, “but enriching the faith of others.”
OECTA Elementary President Josh Mamer offered his congratulations to the students and affirmed the deep pride felt by Catholic teachers across the system.
“I know the teachers in our system have a great sense of pride this evening in supporting our young people as you profess your faith,” he said. “Part of our call to discipleship involves a sharing of the Good News of Jesus Christ through sacred Scripture. You have answered that call this evening. The maturity and commitment you’ve shown tonight is a reflection of your strong faith.”
The evening concluded with the presentation of Honourable Mentions, recognizing students for their exceptional expression of faith and public proclamation of Scripture.
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