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Good morning, Kristin,
A couple of weeks ago, Fr. David, our pastor at St. Patrick, reflected on the meaning of a priest’s vestments. The white alb, he explained, symbolizes purity and recalls our baptism. The stole represents the priestly office and the authority entrusted to him. The chasuble, worn over both, signifies the “yoke of Christ”—the love a priest assumes in offering the Mass.
Fr. David added that if a priest were ever to wear his stole over the chasuble, it would be a gentle correction to remind him: we always wear love over authority.
That image has stayed with me. It made me wonder: where in my own ministry have I done the opposite—where have I led with position or responsibility instead of relationship and care?
Monday’s memorial of St. John Baptist de la Salle offers a fitting lens. His life was marked by humility, simplicity, and an unwavering commitment to the dignity of the young, especially the poor. The Gospel reminds us that “whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.” De la Salle’s work wasn’t about asserting authority but about embodying love—leading through the quiet power of presence, compassion, and trust.
There’s something about that posture that feels especially relevant right now. It’s not about doing less or stepping back—it’s about remembering what comes first.
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A quick reminder: The Fulcrum Foundation is currently accepting nominations for the St. John Baptist de la Salle Educator Excellence Awards, which recognize outstanding educators who model this spirit of humble, faith-filled leadership in our schools. If someone in your community comes to mind—someone who wears love over authority—please consider submitting a nomination.
With gratitude,
NICHOLAS FORD | Superintendent
Office for Catholic Schools | Archdiocese of Seattle
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