Father Douglas Jeffrey Inspires Community to take notice of Catholic Schools

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Father Douglas Jeffrey Inspires Community to take notice of Catholic Schools

Father Douglas Jeffrey captivated the Notre Dame du Portage parish community at the February 24th Mass.  During his homily, he spoke passionately about the important work Catholic schools do for children and families in nurturing a caring and compassionate society.

Many people were inspired during his homily, including Trustee Anne Sweeney. “I was very pleased to hear his message about the gift of Catholic Education.  Father had been visiting our schools and was able to share his personal experiences.  His homily was inspiring and relevant to us as a Catholic school system.  He spoke with honesty and care and I felt a connection with his message.”

The video footage of the homily captures Father Douglas’s homily about Catholic Education:

Kenora Catholic spoke with Father Douglas after the mass to talk about his views on Catholic Education.

Can you tell us what inspired you to talk about the importance of Catholic Education during your homily?

At a Catholic Woman’s League meeting held at Notre Dame Parish, a presentation was made regarding various conversations in Ontario; conversations suggesting that public funds should not be used to support Catholic Schools. I was surprised and concerned by this news. I  wanted to let people know that we need to use our voices to encourage, on the one hand, a spirit of thanksgiving for our Catholic schools (students and staff) and for what Catholic schools are doing (performance and outreach).  As well as to let various political leaders know that we value Catholic schools and want tax dollars allocated in support of the schools.

Why do you believe Catholic Schools are Important?

I believe Catholic schools are important because of their capacity to share ‘Gospel-values’ and their success at doing so. I believe that these values can nurture a more caring and compassionate society. While public schools are also engaged in sharing values, I think that the Catholic schools have that as a primary objective. Catholic schools are important because they also make a special effort to be inclusive. When this does not happen, it is a disappointment. When it does happen, it is a cause for celebration. The emphasis on spirituality touches all aspects of a student’s life and has an influence on how people relate to each other and the responsibility to serve the common good.

What do people need to know about Catholic schools?

First of all, I think we as ordinary Catholics need to inform ourselves of the wonderful work that our Catholic schools are doing. I noticed the effort that the staff puts into making sure students are respected, included, educated, informed and encouraged. These virtues and actions are important for us to nurture in our own lives. I think we need to know that the students are in good hands; people are working hard to make sure our young people are successful and responsible persons and citizens in our country. I think we also need to know that the Gospel is alive and well in our schools. I think people need to know about the initiatives being taken by the schools to ensure that the students are connected to the wider community and through service projects are helping to create a healthier community.

Can you tell us about some of your experiences while visiting Kenora Catholic schools?

I arrived in Kenora on January 29th and celebrated the feast day mass (St. Thomas Aquinas) for the staff and students at St. Thomas Aquinas High School. I appreciated the work done to prepare the liturgy – the ministries and the music. I also appreciated the respectful tone that was present with such a large and diverse group of students. Obviously some good work is being done in the school. Visits to the various classrooms followed and at each visit, I was impressed, not only with the teachers but also with the students.  In my visits to the schools for the sacrament of reconciliation, students have a sense of God and God’s activity in their lives. I was impressed with the ‘drama-story’ presented at École Ste-Marguerite Bourgeoys for their reconciliation service and thought that would be a great ‘homily’ for a liturgy some time. I was impressed with the efforts to balance sports and academics and was impressed to hear about the role that music and art play in the education program.

Father Douglas Jeffrey, OMI was ordained at St. Thomas College, North Battleford, SK in June 1983.  As an Oblate priest he has served his community and the Church in formation ministry, parish ministry, and community leadership.  Today, Fr. Doug preaches parish missions, offers retreats and workshops, provides spiritual direction and replaces pastors who need a break for health, study or holidays.  Father Doug led Kenora Catholic on the October 27th Spiritual Development Day focused on deepening understanding around sacred scripture.

Published on the Kenora Catholic District School Board Web site.