Forming Catholic School Principals as Leaders of the New Evangelization

Abstract

Pope Francis' call for a missionary transformation of the Church has radical implications for Catholic schools and their educational leaders. The Church expects her elementary school principals to serve not only as instructional leaders and ecclesial ministers, but also as agents of the New Evangelization. Given this focus on the New Evangelization as a fundamental conceptual framework for the mission of Catholic schools, it is essential to understand the roots and foundations of this vision as it pertains to the unique role played by Catholic school principals. This article also highlights insights from leading Catholic evangelizers and concludes with recommendations for Catholic educational leaders.