May 15, 2018

Integrating Archdiocesan History into the Catholic School Curriculum

The 175^th anniversary of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee provides a special opportunity to help students and parishioners develop an appreciation for the local diocesan Church.

Why Should We Introduce Students To Archdiocesan History?

Most religion courses introduce students to the mystery of the universal Church, but little attention is generally given to the reality of the local Church, the diocese.  The celebration of the 175^th anniversary of our archdiocese presents an opportunity to focus on the history and the mystery of our archdiocese, which makes the one, holy, catholic, apostolic Church present and real in southeastern Wisconsin.

How Can Archdiocesan History Be Integrated Into The Curriculum?

Possibilities abound.  Archdiocesan history can be planned as a distinct unit of study; it can become a special class project, or it can be integrated into other disciplines; e.g., Wisconsin history and other social studies classes, literature units, etc.

The religion curriculum, of course, provides natural opportunities to connect the study of our archdiocese with a focus on the universal Church; e.g., the Church as community, the marks of the Church, church structures (parish or diocesan), ministry and leadership, the mission of the Church, Church history, the study of the saints, etc.

We are grateful to all teachers in our Catholic schools for embracing the opportunities afforded by the 175^th anniversary to help students:

• understand key developments in the history of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee.
• appreciate leaders throughout the years who provided a firm foundation for the faith we treasure today.
• become inspired to serve our Church and our society, following in the footsteps of our countless holy and heroic predecessors.