Fr. Ibrahim Shomali, Director of the Catechetical Office for the LPJ schools in Galilee, has initiated a series of meetings at the Latin Patriarchate schools. The goal is to develop and enhance the Christian Education subject within these schools and to highlight the significance of religious education for our students.
On Friday, September 20, 2024, the first foundational meeting took place at the Latin Patriarchate school in Jaffa-Nazareth. Fr. Ibrahim Shomali met with Fr. Nidal Qanzoua, the parish priest, Mr. Caesar Rashid, the high school principal, Mrs. Grace Abu Nassar Marjiya, the elementary school principal, Sister Pia Rawashdeh, and Christian education teachers from all grades and levels.
During the meeting, Fr. Ibrahim highlighted key objectives for Christian education in the Patriarchate’s schools:
- Emphasized living the Christian faith as a model for students, showing that teachers teach through actions.
- Stressed the school’s essential role in parish pastoral work.
- Advocated for regular meetings among teachers and encouraged mutual visits.
- Mentioned Fr. Ramez Tawal's visits to motivate student participation in youth groups and activities like scouting and choirs.
- Called for developing educational curricula for religious education and fostering communication among teachers to share resources.
- Promoted participation in a national Bible competition and the formation of Bible study groups.
- Suggested organizing weekly Mass for students and encouraging attendance at Sunday Mass in local parishes.
- Underscored the importance of parental involvement in religious education.
- Discussed three catechist meetings planned for the year: Apostolic Mass, Christmas gathering, and a Lent meeting.
The center director was informed about advancements in religious education, new Bagrut requirements, ongoing teacher initiatives, and the need for collaboration among educators. The meeting concluded with a blessing from the parish priest.
