Catholic Schools Week 2026: Normal Lives, Called to Holiness

Catholic Schools Week 2026 takes place from Sunday 18 January to Saturday 24 January 2026.

This year’s theme, Catholic Schools – Normal Lives, Called to Holiness, invites us to reflect on how faith is lived in the ordinary moments of daily life.

“Holiness does not mean performing extraordinary things, but doing ordinary things with love and faith.”

Pope Francis

Inspired by the life and witness of Blessed Carlo Acutis, this theme reminds us that holiness is not reserved for a few. It is a call for all of us, young and old alike, to live with love, faith, kindness, courage and joy in our homes, our school and our community.

A special moment from the launch of Catholic Schools Week

Our school was delighted to be part of the official launch of Catholic Schools Week 2026. Our school Samba Band proudly formed part of the procession of Archbishop Éamon Martin, Archbishop of Armagh, at the launch event in St John the Baptist Church, Portadown, on Tuesday 13 January.

This joyful moment reflects the confidence, talent and spirit of our pupils, and the pride we take in our wider school community.

Everyday holiness

Catholic Schools Week is a time to celebrate the distinctive mission of Catholic education, education that supports academic learning while also nurturing faith, character, service and joy. It reminds us that holiness is lived in small, faithful actions each day.

Throughout the week, pupils will be invited to reflect on different ways in which we are called to live with purpose and love:

  • Monday: Called to Holiness through Prayer
  • Tuesday: Called to Holiness through Love and Friendship
  • Wednesday: Called to Holiness in Family Life (Grandparents’ Day)
  • Thursday: Called to Holiness through Service and Courage
  • Friday: Called to Holiness through Joy and Mission

We are grateful for the strong partnership between home, school and parish, and for the many ways families support their children to grow as confident, caring and faith-filled young people.

“Each of us is called to be holy by living our lives with love and by bearing witness in everything we do.”

Gaudete et Exsultate, 14

Watch: Our Samba Band at the Launch of Catholic Schools Week 2026

Catholic Schools Week 2026 runs from Sunday 18 January to Saturday 24 January.