Alberta Teachers’ Association President Jason Schilling has issued the following statement on the passing of Pope Francis:
“Pope Francis was a remarkable man and a cherished leader of the Catholic Church, the cornerstone of faith-based learning in a number of Alberta’s schools. His papacy was marked by a profound commitment to social justice, interfaith dialogue and a deep concern for the marginalized. He was also a strong advocate for the well-being of children.
Many students, teachers and their families had the opportunity to make a direct connection with the Pope when he visited our province in 2022. During that visit, all students witnessed history in the making when Pope Francis officially apologized to the Indigenous Peoples within Canada for the church’s role in residential schools.
His spiritual guidance will be missed by many.”
The Alberta Teachers’ Association, as the professional organization of teachers, promotes and advances public education, supports teachers’ professional practice and serves as the advocate for its 51,000 members.