Bishop David Zubik Offers Blessing for Teachers as Teacher Appreciation Week Begins

To acknowledge the work of all teachers in the Diocese of Pittsburgh as part of Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4-8, 2020), Bishop David Zubik shared a video blessing for teachers, saying,  “May you feel the power of our prayers for you during this entire week.”
 
“I just want to be able to thank teachers for all they do to make it a better world,” Bishop Zubik said.   “I wouldn’t be here today; I couldn’t be doing what I’m doing if it weren’t for the people who are dedicated to helping not only develop the mind, but also the hearts and the souls of their students.”
 
Along with the blessing, a special petition for teachers will be read as part of a live stream Mass celebrated by Bishop Zubik on at 10:00 AM on Sunday, May 4, 2020.  It reads: For all teachers as we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week.  May the Holy Spirit fill them with wisdom, fortitude, and gentle patience during this challenging time, and may they know the love and appreciation of students and parents.
 
Director of Catholic Schools Michelle Peduto also recorded a video of thanks to teachers who, she says, “have gone above and beyond to rise to the challenge of providing exceptional educational experiences through distance learning platforms after an abrupt end to the physical school year due to COVID-19 concerns and shut-downs.”
 
“My heart is full of gratitude for everything our teachers put into this most beautiful vocation, and I know that love and appreciation is shared by our principals, parents, and students.  Teachers are in our prayers every day,” Peduto said.
 
The videos from Bishop Zubik and Michelle Peduto are featured in the Schools area of the diocesan website ( https://diopitt.org/schools), along with the petition for teachers, and several Stories of Faith which highlight stories of faith in action in the community. Followers of diocesan social media accounts this week will be encouraged to share words of thanks for teachers who had a positive impact on their lives.