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The Power of Faith through Music: Building a Connection with Children By Dianne Pawlowski, Director, Nippising Parry Sound Music has long been a powerful tool for teaching and connecting with people, especially children. Faith-based music holds a unique ability to instill spiritual messages and create a deeper connection to religious teachings. One of the most profound examples of this is the song “Our Father,” made famous by Sister Janet Mead in 1973. Her rendition of the Lord’s Prayer topped the charts, reaching #1 in Australia and #4 in the USA, proving that songs of faith can have widespread appeal and impact. However,  beyond their popularity, faith-filled songs play a crucial role in spiritual formation, especially in young hearts. As my priest often says, “Singing is like praying twice.” This idea highlights how music can amplify the spiritual experience. Songs are not just melodies; they are prayers set to rhythm, making it easier for children to engage with their faith. Whether it’s the familiar worship songs like “Be Not Afraid” or “On Eagle’s Wings,” or more modern songs like “Here I Am to Worship” by Tim Hughes, music helps make scripture relatable and accessible to people of all ages. Faith-inspired music isn’t confined to traditional hymns or the repetitive children’s songs like “He’s Got the Whole World In His Hands.” Christian music today offers a vibrant and diverse range that extends beyond Sunday worship into everyday life. Contemporary Christian artists have been crafting songs that transcend into pop culture for decades, communicating biblical truths in relevant ways that resonate with all generations. Take the 1986 hit “Kyrie” by Mister Mister – it carries spiritual depth with its refrain, “Kyrie Eleison,” meaning “Christ, have mercy.” It’s a fitting song for moments of reflection, especially in life’s challenges, calling for God’s guidance. Similarly, “Bulletproof” by Citizen Way, draws from Ephesians and urges listeners to put on the ‘armor of God’ to move forward without fear through life’s challenges.   For parents, hymns from the Catholic songbook are comforting connections to their own spiritual upbringing, but they don’t have to rely solely on these songs. They can introduce their children to a new generation of Christian music, offering fresh sounds and meaningful messages that bring faith into daily life. These songs aren’t just for Sundays; they can be enjoyed during car rides, family moments, or personal prayer, anchoring faith in everyday activities. They bring scripture to life in ways that are engaging, uplifting, and transformative. These songs can be woven into the fabric of daily life, reminding us of God’s mercy, love, and presence at every turn.  If you’re looking to explore some new faith-based music, here’s a short list of our family’s  (and parish’s) favourite songs and artists to check out this week: “WaveWalker” – Citizen Way https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ogmsXfAEXq0  “Bulletproof” – Citizen Way https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gG6ST0DVkw  “The Same Love” – Paul Baloche https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvfuKoC2kdU  “Hosanna (Praise is Rising)” – Paul Baloche https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAaQ5EEXidc  “Kyrie” – Mister Mister https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NDjt4FzFWY  “10000 Reasons” – Matt Redman https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXDGE_lRI0E  “Thank You Lord” – Don Moen https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DN3_tSDhDpY  “Here I Am to Worship” – Tim Hughes  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXg2ztge8f0  “Who You Say I Am” – Hillsong Worship –https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcC1Bp13n_4  “Risen” – Shawna Edwards – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCQsK1t9EKY  Enjoy discovering how these songs can inspire and deepen your connection to faith!

TIPS FOR RAISING A READER – By D. Garell-Teti, OAPCE Chair/Director Halton “Children are made readers in the laps of their parents” — Emilie Buchwald, award-winning children’s author As a new school year begins, parents often wonder how to support their children to become better readers. There are many reasons to read. Reading provides entertainment and escapism, knowledge about the world around us, and even helps to improve language and literacy skills. Raising a good reader is about family engagement. Caring adults set children up for success by creating shared reading routines and fostering learning and social and emotional well-being, which helps children thrive inside and outside of school. Research has shown that family involvement is the number one predictor of early literacy success and academic achievement (R. Becher, “Parent Involvement and Reading Achievement: A Review of Research and Implications for Practice”). Here are some tips to help encourage reading in children: Read to your child every day. A 2019 research study out of Ohio State University found that young children whose parents read a book to them every day heard about 290,000 more words by age 5 than those who didn’t regularly read with a parent or caregiver. Parents who read five books a day have a child who enters kindergarten with 1.4 million more words than kids who were never read to. Reading also is a way to bond with your child in a consistent focused manner without distractions or demands. Reading at the same time — as part of a bedtime routine  — can make it easier to build the habit of reading, but anytime a child is hearing language and connecting with you makes a difference. Provide reading options. Bring home books on a variety of topics. Reading about topics that your child enjoys is a good idea, as they can follow their own interests and internalize that reading is fun. Reading books with relatable themes can become a bridge to meaningful conversations with your child about something that may be happening in their lives. And for young children who want to read the same book over and over? Research shows that repetition is how they master language. Let your child see you read. Little eyes are always watching and noticing what occupies the hands and minds of their parents or caregivers — is it a cell phone or is it a book? If your child sees that you enjoy reading, they will be drawn to this activity as well. Talk about stories or a book that you love. Sit together for individual reading moments and share what you have learned.   Remember: Buying lots of books doesn’t automatically encourage your child to read — becoming a role model does! Additionally, check out the book How to Raise a Reader by Pamela Paul and Maria Russo (2019) which provides wonderful ideas on how to encourage a lifelong love of reading from babies to teens.

No other Organization Champions Parental Engagement and Education Policy in Ontario like OAPCE. The Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE) is a recognized parent organization that advocates for and supports Catholic Education in the province of Ontario. Established in 1939, OAPCE works to provide information and resources to parents, as well as representing their interests at various Ministry of Education initiatives and working tables. OAPCE is the only Catholic parent association recognized by the Ministry of Education and is mandated through the Education Act. As advocates for Catholic Education, OAPCE’s main goal is to support the continuation and preservation of publicly funded Catholic Education in Ontario. Joe Perri, Co-executive Director of OAPCE, had the opportunity last year to address a government committee and share his comments and recommendations on the proposed Bill 98, Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act, 2023. As part of OAPCE’s  advocacy initiatives  J. Perri emphasized the need for each child to achieve their best potential, with a stronger focus on the fundamentals of reading, writing, and math, while also adapting to the new technological world. He also stressed the importance of accommodating different learning styles and ensuring that parent suggestions are respected to promote the best performance and health of students. He also discussed the low levels of parent involvement and emphasized that parental engagement is integral to student success. He suggested the need for support and guidance for parents and highlighted the Charter of Rights for parents to work with groups such as OAPCE. Furthermore, OAPCE also called for a protocol for parents’ complaints, emphasizing the importance of transparency regarding complaint resolutions. He suggested that schools should track complaints and ensure transparency regarding funding. OAPCE also emphasized that important items that take place in the school, such as guest speaker presentations should be disclosed to parents – this has recently been adopted by the Ministry in a new policy here Read More Membership in OAPCE offers parents the opportunity to be a part of an organization that promotes and protects Catholic Education. OAPCE elevates the profile of Catholic education by providing information sharing, resources, learning opportunities, networking, and community building. OAPCE has representatives on various Ministry of Education initiatives and working tables, such as Curriculum Review and the Minister’s Partnership Table.  As such, OAPCE has also been part of a Task Force to help implement the new Cellphone and Vaping Policy. the task force was created by the Ministry of Education to strategize the new policy and to roll out its implementation across the province, OAPCE was the only one on the task force representing parents in Catholic education from across the province.  The organization works closely with other Catholic education partners, such as ICE, Bishops, Principals, Trustees, and Teachers, to advocate for Catholic Education and provide a parent perspective to the provincial media. OAPCE hosts an  annual conference where parents from across Ontario can participate in keynote speeches, faith celebrations, and workshops related to parenting, navigating the education system, and supporting student achievement. The OAPCE Representatives, as mandated by Section 612 of the Education Act, serve as liaisons between the local parent school council, regional council, and the provincial Association. They provide a conduit for parents to share their views and concerns with OAPCE. OAPCE has strong relationships and the support of many Catholic partners who collaborate in promoting and protecting publicly funded Catholic education for future generations. This includes promoting initiatives and events, such as the OAPCE Conference. Overall, OAPCE works to ensure that parents have a voice in Catholic education and are provided with the information and resources they need to support their children’s success in school.  We are the only ones to do this.

The Importance of Catholic Education and OAPCE as its Advocate Proverbs 22:6 offers a powerful reminder: “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.” This verse underscores the lifelong impact of the education and guidance children receive during their formative years. Catholic education is not just about academics; it is about nurturing children in their faith and instilling values of compassion, respect, and service. When we “train up” children in these ways, we provide them with the tools to lead lives rooted in integrity and faith. OAPCE plays a critical role in supporting parents in this mission by advocating for the preservation and strength of Catholic education. Parent, YCDSB.  In a society that is becoming increasingly secular, the role of Catholic education is more important than ever. Catholic schools provide a unique and valuable learning environment that fosters the holistic development of students, emphasizing not only academic excellence but also the spiritual, moral, and social growth of each individual. Alongside this, organizations like the Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE) play a crucial role in ensuring the continued success and preservation of Catholic education in Ontario. “Today more than ever, Catholic education plays a crucial role in instilling strong values and moral principles in our youth. It provides a solid foundation rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church, shaping students into responsible and ethical citizens.” – J. Tecson, OAPCE Director, Toronto Catholic education promotes strong values and moral principles, which is vital in a time where moral relativism is prevalent. Catholic schools provide a solid foundation rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church. Students are encouraged to develop a strong moral compass based on principles such as respect, compassion, humility, and justice. The emphasis on virtues like honesty, integrity, and self-discipline shapes students into responsible and ethical citizens who will contribute positively to their communities and society as a whole. Additionally, Catholic education offers a comprehensive and well-rounded education. Alongside academic subjects like math, science, and languages, students receive instruction in religious studies and theology. This not only deepens their understanding of their faith but also provides a rich context for exploring the complexities of the world around them. The integration of faith and reason allows students to develop critical thinking skills and an appreciation for the interconnectedness of knowledge and truth. However, the value of Catholic education extends far beyond the classroom. The Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education provides a platform for parents and guardians to actively participate in their children’s education and support the continuation and preservation of publicly funded Catholic education in the province. OAPCE serves as the voice of parents and guardians of children enrolled in the publicly funded English Catholic System of Education. As the ONLY Catholic parent association recognized by the Ministry of Education, OAPCE holds a unique position in advocating for the protection and promotion of Catholic education. One of the invaluable contributions of OAPCE is its ability to share information and resources with parents. By keeping parents informed about local school boards and Ministry of Education policies, OAPCE empowers parents to be actively involved in their children’s education. This support and guidance are especially important for parents who may feel daunted by the prospect of involvement due to a lack of support or direction. OAPCE also provides a platform for parents to engage in advocacy efforts. Through their representation on various Ministry of Education initiatives and working tables, OAPCE ensures that the parent perspective is heard and taken into account in decision-making processes. By serving as a conduit between school councils, regional councils, and the provincial association, OAPCE ensures that parents’ views and concerns are effectively communicated and addressed. Furthermore, OAPCE works in collaboration with other key stakeholders in Catholic education, including bishops, principals, trustees, and teachers. This collaborative approach strengthens the collective voice advocating for Catholic education and helps to create a united front in supporting the values and principles unique to Catholic schools. “Collaboration among key stakeholders is vital for the preservation and enhancement of Catholic education. OAPCE’s work in bringing together bishops, principals, trustees, teachers, and parents strengthens our collective voice in supporting the values and principles unique to Catholic schools.” – J. Perri, Co-Executive Director, OAPCE  Additionally, OAPCE plays a significant role in raising the profile of Catholic education. By organizing events such as their annual conference, OAPCE provides a platform for parents across Ontario to come together, engage in meaningful discussions, and learn from experts in the field. These conferences offer opportunities for parents to deepen their understanding of the importance of Catholic education and its impact on their children’s lives. They also provide a space to celebrate and strengthen their faith, fostering a sense of community among parents. In conclusion, Catholic education plays a vital role in today’s secular world. By providing a values-based education, a comprehensive and well-rounded curriculum, and a supportive and inclusive community, Catholic schools prepare students to face the challenges of the world with faith, knowledge, and resilience. In this mission, organizations like the Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE) are invaluable. With their role in sharing information, engaging in advocacy efforts, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, OAPCE ensures that parents have a voice and are actively involved in shaping Catholic education for their children. The work of OAPCE is essential in preserving and enhancing the unique and invaluable contribution of Catholic education in today’s secular world.

As We Walk Forward in Faith Together 1 Peter 5:2-3 “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. As the school year begins, the Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE) extends a heartfelt welcome to all parents, guardians, and students. With the summer behind us, we now have the chance to embrace fresh opportunities, new experiences, and a renewed commitment to supporting our children’s education. OAPCE is dedicated to ensuring that the voice of parents is heard within Ontario’s Catholic school system. Your role as parents and guardians is essential to your child’s academic and spiritual growth, and we encourage you to be active participants in their journey this year! Prioritizing Well-being and Learning with Faith With each new school year comes a variety of emotions—excitement, anticipation, and sometimes uncertainty. This year, let’s place a focus on well-being, ensuring our children feel supported in both their academic and personal lives. Education isn’t just about books and grades; it’s about nurturing the whole child, mind, body, and spirit. How Parents Can Make a Difference Active parental involvement can be a game changer. Whether through joining parent councils, volunteering, or simply maintaining open communication with teachers, your engagement helps create a supportive environment for your child to thrive. If you’re looking to make an even greater impact, consider becoming an OAPCE representative. Your voice can help shape the future of Catholic education in Ontario. Ways you can get involved: Attend school events and engage in school council meetings to stay informed. Build strong relationships with teachers and school staff to stay connected to your child’s progress. Foster a collaborative spirit within the school community by volunteering or supporting initiatives. Ensure that our Catholic Faith is paramount in all initiatives and decisions that are made at the school and school board level. Connect with other parents in your school community – together we are stronger! Setting Up for Success: Tips for Parents Here are some actionable tips to ensure a smooth and successful school year for both you and your child: Support healthy habits: Create routines that balance schoolwork, relaxation, and physical activity. A structured approach helps children stay focused and reduces stress. Check-in regularly: Stay involved by having regular check-ins with your child about their experiences, challenges, and successes. This builds trust and opens up communication. Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge progress in your child’s learning journey, no matter how big or small. Positive reinforcement builds motivation. Create a learning-friendly environment: Designate a quiet space at home for study time where your child can focus without distractions. Most importantly, ensure your children understand the reason that they are in a Catholic school to grow together in Christ! Empowering Students: What They Can Do For students, this year presents an opportunity to not only succeed academically but to grow personally and spiritually. Here’s how they can make the most of it: Set clear goals: Encourage your child to set specific, achievable goals for the school year. This gives them a sense of direction and accomplishment. Ask for guidance: It’s important for students to know that seeking help when needed is a sign of strength. Whether they’re struggling with coursework or feeling overwhelmed, reaching out to teachers, friends, or family is key. Stay organized: Managing assignments, deadlines, and extracurriculars can be challenging. Help your child develop organizational habits that will serve them well throughout the year. Stay connected to faith: Encourage participation in school masses, prayer services, or spiritual activities that connect them to the Catholic community. As We Walk Forward in Faith Together: Our New Theme!  The 2024-2025 school year is not just another academic cycle—it’s a chance for our communities to grow closer, stronger, and more united in our shared mission. OAPCE remains committed to working alongside parents, schools, and educators to enhance the Catholic education experience across Ontario. Throughout the year, we will be introducing new initiatives, resources, and events to empower parents and provide meaningful ways to engage with the education system. Stay tuned to our website and social media for updates on upcoming opportunities to connect. A Bright Year Ahead Let’s begin this new academic year with optimism and hope. With faith guiding us, and community strengthening us, there is so much we can achieve together. OAPCE stands with you every step of the way, ensuring that every voice matters and that Catholic education continues to thrive. Wishing you and your family a blessed and successful 2024-2025 school year! Sincerely,Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE)