NEWPORT — According to historian Steve Marino, there is one topic which is bound to spark debate at any gathering of Catholics in the diocese. “I have to be very careful about using any variation on the phrase ‘oldest church in Rhode Island,’ he says. “It can mean a lot of things to a lot of different people.”

While many Rhode Island students have adequately weathered the storm of school interruptions of this past year, some of the most vulnerable students have not. The current educational uncertainties, coupled with the ongoing pandemic, have created a dire situation for many urban families. Perhaps now is the time for large-scale, meaningful change in K-12 education. Do you agree?

Catholic Schools Week was first introduced by the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) in 1974. It is an annual event which typically takes place on the last Sunday in January. The purpose of this week is to emphasize the value and necessity of Catholic education to families and young people, as well as how it contributes to the Church, the community and to our nation.

Our diocesan eNewsletter from January 29...

PROVIDENCE — Catholic schools in Rhode Island and elsewhere in the United States have weathered dozens of challenges over the centuries. Anti-Catholic bigotry. Dramatic drops in vocations from Religious Orders with teaching charisms. Financial crises. Demographic shifts that led to decreased enrollments and half-empty school buildings. And now, a global pandemic.

To Our Catholic School Community: As the Diocese of Providence joins in the celebration of Catholic Schools Week, I extend my greetings to all those who are dedicated to the mission of our Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Providence – pastors, administrators, teachers, staff, students, parents and supporters.