Introducing SBPS Root Beliefs
Rooted in Faith: The Power and Promise of Catholic Education
As the doors of St. Benedict Preparatory School open to welcome a new school year, we are reminded of the sacred mission of Catholic education: to form young minds and hearts in the light of Christ. This mission is not simply about academic excellence - it is about nurturing the whole person, intellectually, spiritually, emotionally, and morally. Catholic education is a gift, and at its heart are the root beliefs that guide our community and shape our identity. These beliefs are not just ideals; they are living truths that call us to action, reflection, and transformation into saints (as Father Ryan, our new pastor, will remind us every opportunity he gets!)
At St. Benedict Preparatory School, our root beliefs are the foundation of everything we do. They are:
1. We are all made in the image and likeness of God (Imago Dei)
2. Learning and faith are the heart of all that we do
3. We grow through perseverance
4. Together we grow our future
Each of these beliefs reflects a deep theological and educational truth, and together they form a vision for how we can live, learn, and grow as a parish school community.
Imago Dei: We Are All Made in the Image and Likeness of God
The Book of Genesis teaches us that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God: Imago Dei. This profound truth means that we possess qualities that mirror God's own nature: intellect, goodness, and the capacity for love. It does not refer to physical appearance, but to the divine spark within each person.
In Catholic education, Imago Dei is the cornerstone of our understanding of human dignity. Every student, teacher, and family member has inherent worth and value, regardless of their circumstances, abilities, or background. This belief calls us to treat one another with reverence, compassion, and respect.
In our parish and school community, we model Imago Dei by creating inclusive environments where every child feels seen, heard, and valued. We affirm the dignity of each person through our words and actions, and we teach our students to do the same. We also recognize our responsibility to care for creation and to reflect God's character in our relationships—with kindness, patience, and love.
Learning and Faith Are the Heart of All That We Do
At St. Benedict, we believe that learning and faith are inseparable. Faith is not confined to religion class or Sunday Mass; it is the lens through which we understand the world, ourselves, and our place in God’s plan. Learning, when rooted in faith, becomes a sacred journey of discovery and growth.
Faith provides guiding principles that shape our understanding of life. It offers purpose and meaning, connecting our studies to a larger vision of service and stewardship. It nurtures holistic development, helping students grow intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. And it reminds us that learning can deepen our faith; through inquiry, exploration, and reflection, we come to know God more fully.
In our parish school, we model this belief by integrating prayer, Scripture, and Gospel values into everyday learning. We encourage curiosity and critical thinking, knowing that questions can lead to deeper understanding. We support students in developing resilience and self-awareness, helping them navigate life’s challenges with grace and courage.
We Grow Through Perseverance
Growth is not always easy. It requires effort, courage, and the willingness to face setbacks. That’s why our third root belief - We grow through perseverance -is so vital. At St. Benedict, we encourage students to learn fearlessly, embracing a growth mindset that sees challenges as opportunities and mistakes as stepping stones.
Perseverance builds confidence, one of our seven “C’s” of St Benedict Prep education. It fosters grit - the ability to keep going even when things are hard. And it strengthens character, cultivating patience, humility, and tenacity. These are not just academic skills; they are spiritual virtues that reflect the journey of faith itself.
In our parish and school, we model perseverance by celebrating effort as much as achievement. We share stories of saints and community members who overcame adversity through faith and determination. We create spaces where students feel safe to take risks, ask for help, and try again. And we remind them that God walks with them in every struggle, offering grace and strength.
Together We Grow Our Future
Our final root belief affirms the power of community. God made us to live in communion with one another, and Catholic education thrives when we embrace collaboration, shared responsibility, and collective action. Just as the Apostles came together after Pentecost to build the Church, we are called to work together to build a future rooted in faith, justice, and love.
This belief highlights another of our seven “C’s:” collaboration. It reminds us that we are interdependent, that each person has something valuable to contribute, and that inclusivity strengthens our community. In our parish school, modeling this belief means fostering teamwork, encouraging service, and building relationships across generations and cultures.
We grow our future together when parents, teachers, religious, and students unite in mission. When we support one another, share our gifts, and lift each other up. When we create a culture of belonging where everyone feels welcome and empowered to lead. And when we recognize that our collective efforts, no matter how small, can transform lives and communities.
Rooted in Belief, Ready to Grow
As we begin this new academic year, let us remember that Catholic education is more than a curriculum; it is a calling. Our faculty, staff and administration see our role as a sacred trust to nurture the minds and hearts of our children in the light of Christ. The root beliefs of St. Benedict Preparatory School - Imago Dei, Learning and Faith, Perseverance, and Community - are not just ideals. They are living truths that guide our teaching, shape our relationships, and inspire our mission.
Let us model these beliefs in our classrooms, our homes, and our parish. Let us support one another in faith and love. And let us pray that this school year will be a time of deep learning, joyful growth, and abundant grace. May God bless our students, teachers, families, and parish community as we journey together in faith.