Catholic school leaders prepare for new school year
Approximately 75 Catholic school leaders from across the Archdiocese of Newark gathered on August 20 for the annual School Leaders Administrative Conference, held at the St. John Paul II Retreat Center in Kearny.
Hosted by the Archdiocese’s Office of Catholic Schools, the daylong event was led by Superintendent Barbara Dolan, Associate Superintendent Mary McElroy, and Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Schools and Operational Vitality Jaclyn Pilat. The conference provided an opportunity for fellowship, reflection, and renewal of purpose ahead of the new school year.
The day began with Mass in Sacred Heart Chapel, celebrated by Father Stephen J. Fichter, who also serves as the Episcopal Vicar of Education. In his homily, Father Fichter reflected on the life and teachings of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, whose feast day coincided with the conference, and spoke on the profound role educators play in today’s world.
Changing the world through education
Drawing attention to ongoing global suffering, such as starving children in Gaza and the tragedies of war, Father Fichter acknowledged the helplessness many feel in the face of such crises. “‘What can we do to change this world?’” he asked.
“But what we are doing is changing the world,” he continued. “We’re educating the next generations. We’re educating boys and girls and teens entrusted to our care to be peacemakers, to be just and fair, to live according to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
He encouraged school leaders to draw inspiration from Saint Bernard’s devotion to Christ and Mary, and to pass on that spiritual foundation to their students. “Introduce them to friendship with Christ,” he said. “It’s the greatest gift we can give them.”
‘We Are His Witnesses’ presentation
After Mass, attendees convened in Sacred Heart Hall, where they were introduced to some staff members from the Archdiocese of Newark. Speakers included Steven Llanes, General Counsel; Karen Clark, Executive Director of the Department for the Protection of the Faithful; Marta Nieves, Safe Environment Assistant; Maria Margiotta, Executive Director of the Office of Communications; and Elizabeth DeMott, Director of Strategic Projects. Each provided a brief overview of their department’s role in supporting school leadership and Catholic education.
The conference included a presentation on the archdiocese’s pastoral initiative, We Are His Witnesses, delivered by Bishop Michael Saporito, Regional Bishop for Bergen County. Attendees engaged in a productive discussion and expressed a strong interest in following the initiative’s progress in the months ahead.
Rooted in prayer and collaboration, the annual conference offered both practical guidance and spiritual encouragement as Catholic school leaders prepare to welcome students back for the new academic year. Before concluding with a luncheon, attendees joined together in prayer, giving thanks for the day of fellowship and for the mission they share in Catholic education. The meal provided a final opportunity for school leaders to connect, reflect, and strengthen their bonds as a community of faith.
Featured image: Superintendent Barbara Dolan speaks at the annual School Leaders Administrative Conference. (Photo by Maria Margiotta / Archdiocese of Newark)
