One of the most meaningful ways the mission of St. Francis of Assisi comes to life at The Franciscan School is through Catholic Social Teaching (CST), which provides opportunities for students to connect their faith to action and discover how they can make a difference in the world around them.

Each school year, we dedicate five Early Release days to focus on the key CST themes, which include: Life and Dignity of the Human Person, Dignity of Work, Care for the Poor, Family, Community and Participation, Solidarity, Rights and Responsibilities, and Care for Creation. During these days, students participate in teacher-designed activities and presentations by outside speakers and parish ministry leaders, helping them better understand how they can serve others in our community.

Through intentional service experiences tied to each theme, students can recognize the impact they can have on others. “We intentionally design experiences that allow students not only to recognize needs, but also to understand how their actions can make a meaningful impact,” shares teacher Celina Manville, who is a member of the CST Committee. The CST Committee, comprised of seven teachers and one administrator, works collaboratively with Mrs. Slock, the parish Coordinator of Justice and Peace, to coordinate these special events.

Throughout the school year, students engage with organizations and ministries that bring the CST teachings to life. During the Solidarity theme, seventh and eighth-grade students partnered with the parish Migrant Ministry to sort donated clothing and write notes of encouragement in Spanish. As part of the Life and Dignity theme, first graders assembled Comfort Care Kits for patients at Duke Children’s Hospital and learned that every person deserves compassionate care.

During the Care for Creation theme, through a new partnership with the Knights of Columbus and Habitat for Humanity, students decorated baffles made from recycled cardboard pieces that will help create a warm and welcoming environment for new residents.

Additional CST experiences throughout the year connect students with parish ministries and local organizations, which help them see firsthand how valuable service can strengthen families and support vulnerable populations.

“CST connects deeply with our Franciscan values and the core tenets of faith, academics, and service at TFS,” says Mrs. Manville. “These experiences help our students grow as compassionate, faith-filled leaders who are committed to serving others.” A powerful example of this lived connection can be seen in the life of St. Francis himself. His encounter with the leper, when he chose to embrace and care for someone society rejected, reflects the same call found in CST to recognize the dignity of every person and to serve Christ in those most in need.

The CST Committee looks forward to identifying even more opportunities for service within our CST events, while also inspiring families to extend their commitment to serving others beyond school hours. It deepens our Franciscan identity, calls us to live our faith through service, and forms our hearts to be ever more like Christ.

Learn more about Catholic Social Teaching at TFS.