Acta Benedicti Pp. XVI 321

way, Christ's Good News is set to work, guiding both teacher and student

towards the objective truth which, in transcending the particular and the

subjective, points to the universal and absolute that enables us to proclaim

with confidence the hope which does not disappoint.3 Set against personal

struggles, moral confusion and fragmentation of knowledge, the noble goals

of scholarship and education, founded on the unity of truth and in service of

the person and the community, become an especially powerful instrument of

hope.

Dear friends, the history of this nation includes many examples of the

Church's commitment in this regard. The Catholic community here has in

fact made education one of its highest priorities. This undertaking has not

come without great sacrifice. Towering figures, like Saint Elizabeth Ann

Seton and other founders and foundresses, with great tenacity and foresight,

laid the foundations of what is today a remarkable network of parochial

schools contributing to the spiritual well-being of the Church and the nation.

Some, like Saint Katharine Drexel, devoted their lives to educating those

whom others had neglected - in her case, African Americans and Native

Americans. Countless dedicated Religious Sisters, Brothers, and Priests to-

gether with selfless parents have, through Catholic schools, helped genera-

tions of immigrants to rise from poverty and take their place in mainstream

society.

This sacrifice continues today. It is an outstanding apostolate of hope,

seeking to address the material, intellectual and spiritual needs of over three

million children and students. It also provides a highly commendable oppor-

tunity for the entire Catholic community to contribute generously to the

financial needs of our institutions. Their long-term sustainability must be

assured. Indeed, everything possible must be done, in cooperation with the

wider community, to ensure that they are accessible to people of all social

and economic strata. No child should be denied his or her right to an educa-

tion in faith, which in turn nurtures the soul of a nation.

Some today question the Church's involvement in education, wondering

whether her resources might be better placed elsewhere. Certainly in a nation

such as this, the State provides ample opportunities for education and at-

tracts committed and generous men and women to this honorable profession.

3 Cf. Rom 5:5.