Summit focuses on hopes, concerns for future of Catholic education

Published: 2007-03-02

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (CNS) -- Hope and concern for the future of Catholic schools blended when nearly 300 educational leaders and five bishops gathered for the first "Summit for Catholic School Education in Illinois." "Despite all the challenges, there is reason for hope," said Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago at the Feb. 26 assembly that included diocesan superintendents of schools, elementary- and secondary-school presidents and principals, members of education boards and commissions, and dozens of priests and religious from the state. Cardinal George called on Catholics to "keep pressure on the government" to do more for parents who choose Catholic education for their children. Throughout the day calls came for increased cooperation between dioceses in areas such as purchasing and marketing, while realizing that the needs of schools vary across the state. A greater embracing of stewardship -- the sharing of time, talent and treasures -- was repeatedly proposed as a way for Catholics to support schools.

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