In this week's Catholic Teacher Article, Mike details the importance of listening to the Lord.

Since my undergraduate days, I have been attracted to the mystics. The mystics speak with a gentle authority, which comes from an experiential knowing. Through their attentive seeking they have attained a union with God that is infinitely possible. The mystic way is open to all; it is not something that is... Read More »

In this week's Catholic Teacher Article, Mike uses the teachings of Aristotle to explore the duty of a teacher.

Many years ago, when head of RE in Chorley, I came across the following quote by the Hellenistic thinker Aristotle:

Teachers, who educate children, deserve more honour than parents, who merely gave them birth; for the latter provided mere life, while the former ensure a good life.

It made me... Read More »

In this week's Catholic Teacher Article, Mike explores the courage it requires to follow the vocational path of education, particularly in these trying times.

I cycle to school most days. It can be tough when the weather is poor. Yet, after prayer and poached eggs, it is a great way to start the day. I must admit, I prefer to cycle in the dark mornings. A significant part of the route is on the Liverpool... Read More »

In this week's Catholic Teacher Article, Mike explores the radical idea of unity within Catholic education and the importance of a loving approach to teaching.

In St James Bootle, I always wait until last to receive Holy Communion. The journey towards the Eucharist is my weekly pilgrimage. The beautiful long aisle, the marble altar, the oil paintings of St John Bosco and St James which adorn the sanctuary... Read More »

In this week's Catholic Teacher Article, Mike explores the need for courage when teaching the poor and marginalised.

The Franciscan Priest and spiritual master, Fr. Richard Rohr, refers to "falling in love" as counterintuitive. Love, he says, is something we "fall" into as no one would willingly go there, in the knowledge that to love is to open oneself up to vulnerability and the real possibility that... Read More »

In this week's Catholic Teacher Article, Mike explores the spiritual symbolism of a simple chalk stain.

Twenty-three years ago, I started my first teaching practice. Dressed in my graduation suit, I proudly walked down the drive of St Peter's Catholic High School, Orrell, near Wigan, briefcase in hand; the journey had begun. One of my abiding memories of that time is spending my breaks and lunchtimes... Read More »

In this week's Catholic Teacher Article, Mike explores his recent ordination as a deacon, and how he intends to use this role to aid his teaching.

At the beginning of the second week of the summer holidays, I was ordained a deacon. In spite of the Covid-19 restrictions, there were fifty-six guests, and St James Bootle looked fuller than it had been since the lockdown began. To be a deacon means to serve.... Read More »