Archbishop Charles Scicluna and Bishop Joseph Galea Curmi lead the Catholic Church in Malta. Therefore, they seek to be close to the people in various ways, particularly in schools. Their visits are vital in strengthening the bond between faith communities and the educational environment.
During the past years, the Maltese bishops have visited many school communities to dialogue with educators and students and celebrate the Eucharist. Whether in State, Catholic, or Independent schools, their presence goes beyond symbolism, fostering meaningful exchanges that benefit everyone involved.
Here are ten points that highlight the value of having bishops visit schools and the positive impact these visits can have.
1. Strengthening Faith and Education Partnership
Auxiliary bishop Joseph Galea Curmi visits a primary school on 27/11/2019
Bishops’ school visits reinforce the connection between the Church and educational institutions. These visits foster a collaborative relationship where religious education is not just an isolated subject but a lived experience integrated into daily school life. This collaboration helps form well-rounded individuals who grow both spiritually and academically.
2. Encouraging Open Dialogue
A bishop’s presence creates an open platform for dialogue between Church leaders, educators, and students. This opportunity allows school leaders and teachers to share their challenges and successes, enabling bishops to better understand schools’ unique needs and guide diocesan policies accordingly.
Archbishop Charles J. Scicluna visits the Minor Seminary on 17/01/18
3. Spiritual Support for Educators
Religious Educators’ meeting with Archbishop Charles as part of his pastoral visit at St Benedict College Secondary School in Kirkop on 30/05/2024
Teachers, especially those involved in religious education, often face challenges guiding students through faith and academics. A bishop’s visit provides them with spiritual support and encouragement and allows them to reflect on how their work contributes to the Church’s mission.
4. Making the Church More Approachable
Auxiliary bishop Joseph Galea Curmi with Primary School children at St Joseph School in Sliema on 19/12/2019
Bishops’ visits can demystify the Church’s institutional role, making it more accessible and relevant to young people. Through interaction, students can see bishops as approachable leaders who genuinely care about their spiritual and personal growth, dispelling notions of hierarchy or distance.
A memorable occasion: Archbishop Scicluna engaging with primary school students at St Ignatius College Patri Ġuże Delia Primary School, Siġġiewi on 28/05/18
5. Encouraging Moral and Spiritual Growth
Education isn’t solely about academic achievement—moral and spiritual growth is just as important. Bishops can inspire students to integrate their faith into everyday life, help them reflect on the ethical consequences of their actions and encourage them to continue nurturing their spiritual journey, which complements their academic progress.
Bishop Joseph encountering students at the National Sports School, Pembroke, on 20/12/2023
6. Inspiring Students Through Direct Engagement
For many students, the opportunity to directly engage with a bishop can be unheard of, but the possibility can be very inspiring. It affirms their connection to the wider Church and gives them a sense of inclusion within their faith community. These encounters often inspire deeper consideration and exploration of personal beliefs.
In the classroom with secondary school students at Our Lady Immaculate School Ħamrun on 02/05/2024
7. Amplifying Student Voices
Year 11 students’ Question and Answer session with the Archbishop at St Dorothy’s School in Ħaż-Żebbuġ on 21/11/2023
8. Shaping School Policies with the Church’s Guidance
Through discussions with bishops, schools can benefit from the Church’s perspective on critical issues such as ethical leadership, values-based education, and pastoral care. These insights can shape school policies to promote a holistic education and environment where academic and spiritual growth are equally prioritized.
Archbishop’s visit at St Ignatius College, St Sebastian Primary School Qormi on10/03/2023
9. Promoting Unity in the School Community
Bishops’ visits also promote a sense of purpose and greater unity among the school community and the Church. They strengthen the school’s ethos and sense of mission by bringing everyone together through discussions, the celebration of the Eucharist, or spiritual activities.
Auxiliary bishop Joe Galea Curmi celebrating Christmas Mass at the National Sports School, Pembroke, on 20/12/2023
10. A Catalyst for Faith Exploration
Students often leave a bishop’s visit inspired to explore their faith further. Whether through increased engagement in Church activities, more convinced participation within their school or local communities, or personal reflection, the visit can serve as a springboard for continued spiritual development.
From the Archbishop’s visit at Maria Reġina College, Żokrija Secondary School, Mosta on 06/05/2024
In conclusion, bishops’ school visits are far more than ceremonial events. They provide an invaluable opportunity for dialogue, personal growth, and spiritual support for students, teachers, and school leaders. These visits reinforce the Church’s role in shaping young minds, encouraging them to carry their faith into all areas of life. For more information on arranging a visit, schools can contact Spiritual Development in Schools to help create this meaningful experience in their community.