“Every student’s “a-ha” moment of understanding or discovery is never solitary or singular; it is part of the long narrative that is human history. Though time and place may separate one generation from the next, and one community here from another community there, we depend on one another and learn from one another.”
With these words, Bishop Jaime Soto invites readers to reflect on the importance of Catholic education in the January/ February issue of the Catholic Herald. The digital version can be found here: SAC0126 | Catholic Magazines.
In the cover story, parents of children with disabilities in the diocese share their journey of advocating for their children to have opportunities within Catholic education. Last year, the Foundation for Inclusive Religious Education (FIRE) of Sacramento was launched to provide educational resources, teacher training, fundraising, and promoting a culture of belonging. “What we believe as parents and as Catholics,” Annie Narayan, vice president of the board says, “is that all children are children of God. All children deserve to have access to the same quality of education.”
Other stories in this issue include the benefits of education in virtue being implemented at schools such as Sacred Heart School in Sacramento, St. Rose School in Roseville and St. Vincent Ferrer School in Vallejo; Katie Perata, executive director of Catholic schools in the diocese shares her vision for the future of Catholic schools in the diocese; St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School’s new discipleship program for middle school students; and how Catholics can help transform lives in the upcoming 2026 Annual Catholic Appeal.
This issue also includes a special report on "Pope Leo’s First Apostolic Exhortation: Dilexi Te"; a parenting column on "The lasting gifts of Catholic education"; and local community stories such as St. Catherine of Siena School celebrating 40 years in Catholic education.
Bishop Jaime Soto is the publisher of Catholic Herald magazine, which is published six times each year and includes moving faith stories about Catholics in the diocese, as well as news and events of the local church. Individual faith stories are the cornerstone of the magazine and columns also explore the Catholic faith and education about church teachings. To donate $15 per year to receive Catholic Herald magazine, call 916-733-0266. To view the archive of past issues of Catholic Herald magazine, visit https://www.scd.org/catholicherald.