Classical or Catholic? A Sacramental Approach to Education"

In his article "Classical or Catholic? A Sacramental Approach to Education," Dr. R. Jared Staudt addresses the resurgence of classical education as a response to the perceived shortcomings of modern, utilitarian educational models. He acknowledges concerns that classical education may be viewed as elitist or outdated, particularly regarding its emphasis on Western canonical works.

Dr. Staudt proposes a "sacramental approach" to education, which seeks to integrate various aspects of learning and personal development. This approach combines career preparation with intellectual formation, inspired by the Benedictine balance of prayer and work. It emphasizes the unity of body and mind, reason and imagination, and the collaboration between school and family.

He advocates for a deeper engagement with the Catholic tradition, encouraging familiarity with its rich heritage of literature, art, and the lives of the saints. This engagement aims to equip students with the wisdom necessary to address contemporary challenges such as artificial intelligence, transhumanism, and the breakdown of the family.

Ultimately, Dr. Staudt calls for Catholic education to reaffirm children's identities as beings made in the image of God, tasked with the mission of renewing civilization by drawing from the past and creatively applying it to the present.

For a more comprehensive understanding, you can read the full article here.