An interesting discussion was held with the Leadership team at our meeting yesterday and I appreciated everyone's input and honesty.
I am finding this text very interesting in particularly the topic of identity and its connection to culture. The comment the author expressed regarding identity as being stable but not fixed and changes with maturation over time is fascinating when connected with Catholic identity.
Some of my wonderings are;
- Does our catholic identity change with maturation over time and
- if so what aspects develop and what aspects remain stable. Interested in your thoughts.
Definition: Identity ' the set of characteristics by which a person, group or thing is recognised.'
Culture 'provides people with an essential sense of purpose, order and belonging.
In the example, "putting the Vision Statement to Work' we are reminded about the importance of being explicit abut the way the school weaves the Catholic threads into every thing we do. I believe that this is an area of strength in our school however I also recognise that it is an area we need to be vigilant about and is worthy of continuous discussion as a community.
I would also agree that the way the school weaves the Catholic threads into everything we do is a strength in our community. I also believe it can become be our weakness as well, especially if we stop thinking about the 'why' we are doing these things. Sometimes if things become too routine or automatic we loose the why and it becomes 'just something we do' rather than a way of expressing our faith. I think the Enhancing Catholic Identity Survey is a great opportunity to continue the discussions and look forward to the discussions.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your comment on the 'routine' but we also have to remember a tradition is central to the practices of our faith and it is up to us to ensure it is elevated beyond the 'routine' and becomes a true expression of our faith.
ReplyDeleteMy challenge is reinforcing this - especially when we stop for the Angelus - often the students say it so fast i am not sure they realise 'why' we stop and say it. It would be worth a discussion and reminder for all of us.
ReplyDeleteThe same thing happens with the prayer at the end of the day. Especially on Fridays when there is a lot of movement around the school after Assembly.
ReplyDeleteI do believe our Catholic Identity definitely changes over time. Whether it is maturity I am not sure. If so I think I have matured much later in life as my beliefs remained the same for a long period of time even after leaving school. Significant events such as having children, preparing with them for their sacraments losing a loved one certainly made me question more. However through all of this the one constant has been my faith and belief that God will help me through it.
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