June 3, 2020

Dear Joliet Catholic Academy Family,

Inspired by and committed to the charisms of the Carmelites and Franciscans, Joliet Catholic Academy strives to live the hallmarks that have been set for us over the last 150 years. Most importantly as we see the events of the world around us unfolding, specifically those in Minneapolis surrounding the unjust death of George Floyd, we are reminded of the words and actions that are ever present in the hallmark of respecting all individuals that is stated in our handbook:

Respect for all Individuals: All persons, created in God’s image and likeness and called to become, as Saint Paul writes, “partakers of the divine nature”, are worthy of the highest respect and dignity as unique individuals and bearers of God’s presence in this world.  

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops recently stated on the death of George Floyd and the resulting protests, “We cannot turn a blind eye to these atrocities and yet still try to profess to respect every human life. We serve a God of love, mercy, and justice.” Citing a recent document on racism, the USCCB went on to say, “As bishops, we unequivocally state that racism is a life issue.” Cardinal Blaise J. Cupich, archbishop of Chicago added, “Indeed, racism and its death-dealing consequences are not just offenses against our brothers and sisters as fellow human beings. They are offenses against God, the father of us all.”

The JCA administration has also been made aware of a social media post political in nature and invoking graphic violence that is contrary to our community’s beliefs.  

The post, which we vehemently denounce due to its graphic nature and disregard for the value of life, runs counter to our belief in Catholic teaching. As Diocese of Joliet apostolic administrator Bishop Richard Pates recently stated, “does not Jesus call us to witness to pro-life in all its dimensions?” This post does not reflect what we stand for as a Catholic institution. Comments that reflect un-Christian attitudes towards the value of life have no place. We are well aware of the divided political opinions that exist in our world and ultimately within all school settings. However, there is no debate pertaining to the value of human life and the denouncement of racism in all its forms.

At Joliet Catholic Academy we are committed to calling injustices out by name and felt it important to encourage the further discussion which will inevitably follow. JCA will not shelter in silence and will stand with our entire community as we move forward to affect change inside our school, in Joliet and across our nation. We will strive to educate in all aspects of social justice.

We pray for George Floyd and his family.

We pray for peace and unity.

We pray for the voices of the black community to be heard.

We pray that Catholics, all Christian communities, and all Faiths across our great nation can unite in solidarity. 

“While you are proclaiming peace with your lips, be careful to have it even more fully in your heart.” 
– St. Francis of Assisi  

Let your words and actions combine to change hearts in our communities.

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel… Pray for Us. 

St. Francis of Assisi… Pray for Us.

Dr. Jeffrey Budz
Joliet Catholic Academy President/Principal

Joliet Catholic Academy Administration and Board of Members