The ‘divine ministry’ of the teacher

Nigel Gopie, president of the Catholic Teachers’ Association, described the work of Catholic teachers as a divine ministry during the 74th Catholic Teachers’ Convention on October 16. Speaking at the St. Francis of Assisi RC Church in Sangre Grande, Gopie said teachers have a distinct opportunity to shape the minds and hearts of their students.

The convention theme focused on reflecting Christ through purposeful lessons and acts of care. Gopie connected this to the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi, noting that the saint described holy activity as a lived practice visible to others. Gopie stated that for a teacher, the classroom serves as that visible activity. He noted that teachers model character by demonstrating honesty, patience, and fairness, and show compassion by supporting all students regardless of their backgrounds.