As 2015 draws to a close, it is natural to look back over the year that is about to end and to identify some of its highlights, invitations and challenges. What strikes me in doing so today is the urgency for value-based education in which every child is welcomed, accepted, heard and included. Sophie’s vision for education of girls was born out of the French Revolution. Today that vision is as relevant and imperative as it was 215 years ago, no matter how much more globalized our world currently is. The hallmark of Sacred Heart education is a focus on the whole child – mind, body and spirit – and 2015 has shown us why such education remains a top priority on any educator’s list in our day. May 2016 bring us, our world and Earth closer to the wholeness and inclusiveness of which Pope Francis so often speaks, and may we all grow in listening to and hearing the voices of children. Happy Christmas and wishes of peace to all throughout the New Year.
