The Good Shepherds in the classrooms

The Catholic Education Office scheduled an in-service day for all 12,000 teachers working in Catholic schools in the diocese of Hong Kong on May 20, under the theme, “I am the good shepherd; I know my own and my own know me” (John 10:14).

The Chief Executive of Hong Kong Sir Donald Tsang Yam-Kuen [third from left] and Bishop John Tong Hon arriving at the gathering of Catholic School Teachers

Education is one of the highly valued services offered by the Hong Kong diocese. Over the past century-and-a-half, the diocese has become one of the major school sponsoring bodies and providers of education in the territory, with 278 schools serving more than 200,000 students. While there is no argument over the innate value of education, the diocese does have concerns over the quality of the service it is offering. Quality education does not come about simply as a result of high ideals. Good teachers are needed to make it happen. Teachers are important role models for our young people.

While knowledge and teaching skill is a basic necessity, a more important aspect of their work involves their attitude towards life and their work. This has a profound effect on the culture and atmosphere on the campuses of Catholic schools. Teachers are expected to be more than just classroom instructors. They are also expected to have a sense of mission in the spirit and teaching of the gospels.

A still from the program

“I am the good shepherd; I know my own and my own know me,” was a well-chosen topic for the teachers’ gathering. The metaphor of a shepherd is inspirational. Teachers are challenged to follow the example of Christ in identifying the members of their flocks, walking with them and guiding them with care and love.
The most effective way to win the respect of young people and to influence their lives is through the type of loving care that Jesus talks about in the parable of the Good Shepherd.

- The Sunday Examiner