Renowned Experts Visit to Enhance
Catholic School Identity
Photo above from right: Most Rev. Greg Bennet - Catholic Bishop of Sale, Professor Didier Pollefeyt, Drs Jan Bouwens, Ms Debra Punton – Deputy Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale , Mr Paul Velten, Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale, Mr Dominic Ryan - Senior Manager - Catholic Identity and Religious Education.
MEDIA RELEASE
26th February 2025
Our Diocese welcomed two authorities in Catholic school identity, Professor Didier Pollefeyt and Drs Jan Bouwens from Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven.
This visit was at the invitation of Bishop of Sale, Most Reverend Greg Bennet to further our commitment to fostering a strong Catholic identity within our 46 schools.
Professor Pollefeyt and Dr Bouwens collaborated with clergy, principals, religious education leaders, parish pastoral associates, and sacramental coordinators. Their focus centred around the Enhancing Catholic School Identity (ECSI) initiative, examined through the transformative lens of The Second Vatican Council.
Participants had the opportunity to engage deeply with our Diocesan ECSI data, gaining invaluable insights into effectively using this information to strengthen the Catholic identity of our schools.
Additionally, the group explored Pope Francis’ vision of synodality. The discussions emphasised how this vision aligns with our mission to enhance and celebrate Catholic identity within our educational framework.
The day was an opportunity to come together to enhance our work in nurturing vibrant, inclusive school communities that reflect our faith and educational values.