Saint John Bosco

This is a good memorial to celebrate as we begin Catholic Schools Week, Saint John Bosco. Saint John was born in 1815. Once he was ordained to the priesthood he dedicated himself to the education of the young, founding congregations which would instruct youth in both the arts and the Christian life. He died in 1888 (Magnificat, 414-15). The entrance antiphon also speaks well of the saint that we celebrate: "Let the children come to me, and do not stop them, say the Lord; to such belongs the kingdom of God" (Mk. 10:14). Saint John welcomed the children, the youth like our Lord and taught them the ways of faith and how to live the Christian life. Catholic Schools, Religious Education, Youth Ministry, etc, are important components of the mission of the Church. Our young people are not only our future leaders in the church, but they are also the church of today. As priests, religious, catechists, we need to do our part to make our young people feel welcome and instill in them the Catholic faith and how to live holy, moral, dedicated, and committed lives. Let us turn to Saint John Bosco, for his prayers and intercessions, that we may carry out our ministry to the young people with strong faith and great zeal, energy, and enthusiasm. God Bless You!!!