Jesus’ Light shines in Catholic schools, archbishop says

Jesus – the Light of the World – shines powerfully in Catholic schools, Archbishop George J. Lucas told about a thousand eighth-graders from nearly 30 Omaha-area Catholic schools.

The students filled St. Cecilia Cathedral in Omaha on Jan. 30 for the Eighth Grade Mass, an annual Catholic Schools Week tradition.

Jesus’ Light – like a light in a dark room – helps the students to see and not stumble, the archbishop explained in his homily.

The Light of Jesus helps them to see the truth about themselves, he said, that they are created in the image and likeness of God; that He loves them right where they’re at, and that He’s on their side.

“We get down on ourselves,” Archbishop Lucas said, “and sometimes others get down on us.”

But Jesus’ Light helps them to spot those lies.

His Light also helps them see their next step on the path that He’s calling them on, the archbishop said, and that Light helps them see that part of a community and part of the world. It helps them to see clearly all His goodness.

Archbishop Lucas thanked the students, teachers, principals, priests and others who help at Catholic schools. He thanked the students’ families, parishes and all Catholic school supporters.

“I promise to keep all of you in my prayers,” he said.