Diocesan Educators Deepen Faith and Camaraderie on Rome Pilgrimage
A recent pilgrimage to Rome, coinciding with the World Jubilee of education, proved to be a profoundly impactful experience for a group of administrators from the Diocese of columbus’ Catholic schools. Led by Bishop Fernandes and Dr. Adam Dufault, the journey offered a unique opportunity for spiritual enrichment, historical immersion, and strengthened professional bonds.
Courtney Kreber, assistant principal at Hilliard St. Brendan School, described the trip as “a call to a closer encounter with Christ” rather than a simple vacation. A highlight for Kreber was her first unobstructed view of Pope Francis, an experience she characterized as “pure joy.” Spiritual planning, guided by Sister John Paul, facilitated intentional prayer and reflection throughout the pilgrimage. She also valued the chance to connect with fellow administrators, especially as a new member of the diocesan leadership.
Cecelia Pitt, principal of Mount Vernon St.Vincent de paul School, affirmed the pilgrimage’s spiritual benefits, noting it yielded “so much spiritual fruit and many opportunities to connect to the sacred traditions and rich history of our Catholic faith.”
For Carey Wrigley,assistant principal at Columbus St. Mary Magdalene School, the experience was transformative. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share even a small part of her journey with her students, calling it a blessing and an experience she would not soon forget.
Angie Eisenacher, principal of Columbus St.Christopher School, detailed the profound connection she felt to the global Church while visiting meaningful sites like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. She carried prayer intentions from her school community,offering them during her time in Rome. Eisenacher emphasized the pilgrimage’s power to connect her to the “living history of our shared Catholic faith” and the generations of believers who came before.
Gina Stull, principal of Columbus St. Mary German Village School,saw the pilgrimage as a reaffirmation of the Catholic school’s mission.She stated that the experience reinforced the understanding that educators are “His hands, His feet, His eyes, His ears,” tasked with passing on the faith to teachers and ultimately, to students. The pilgrimage,she added,strengthened her faith through witnessing the relics and memorials of past believers.
The pilgrimage appears to have fostered a renewed sense of purpose and connection among the diocesan administrators,equipping them to further their work within the Catholic school system.
