An Inspiration
Father Michael Schmitz an inspiring and innovative leader of Catholic Education. His work is a testament to the power of media in modern evangelization.
He is:
- Making use of technology to minister to the youth.
- Making scripture accessible and relevant.
- The author of “Made for Love: Same-Sex Attraction and the Catholic Church,” a compassionate approach to the Church’s teachings on sexuality and same-sex attraction.
Personifying the ISTE Standards for Education
The ISTE Standards are a framework that guides educators, leaders and coaches in using technology to create high-impact, sustainable, scalable and equitable learning experiences. They have been adopted by all U.S. states and many countries worldwide.
1. Visionary Leadership (ISEL Standard 1)
Fr. Schmitz embodies visionary leadership. He uses modern tools, such as YouTube and podcasts, to communicate Catholic teachings to a broad audience, especially young people. Fr. Smith exemplifies how to leverage digital platforms to spread a vision of faith and personal growth, engaging a generation that often feels disconnected from traditional forms of ministry in his compassionate and down to earth style of presenting.
2. Teaching, Learning, and Assessment (ISEL Standard 2)
He is an example of how educational leaders can use digital tools to engage and inspire their audiences. His YouTube videos, podcasts, and social media content provide opportunities for continuous learning, both for himself and for his audience.
3. Excellence in Professional Practice (ISEL Standard 3)
Fr. Michael is willing to address challenging and relevant issues, such as morality, relationships, and spirituality, in ways that resonate with a modern audience. His ability to combine sound theological knowledge with clear communication is a model for educational leaders who aim to make complex content both relevant and engaging for a diverse audience.
4. Systemic Improvement (ISEL Standard 4)
Fr. Michael Schmitz uses technology to scale and impact educational practices on a larger level, beyond traditional classrooms, aligning with the ISTE standard of leading systemic improvement in educational environments.
5. Digital Age Leadership (ISEL Standard 5)
He is a strong advocate for embracing technology’s potential for broadening the reach of faith-based education.
6. Culture of Care and Collaboration (ISEL Standard 6)
By addressing the personal and emotional struggles of his audience, Fr. Schmitz shows a deep commitment to creating a culture of care and collaboration. His talks and content often deal with the challenges that young people face in their spiritual lives, such as navigating relationships and understanding the purpose of life, making them feel seen, heard, and cared for. This aligns with the ISTE Standard for building collaborative cultures where leadership encourages the emotional and intellectual growth of all learners. Fr. Schmitz fosters a community of learners that feels supported in both their intellectual and personal growth, especially through digital platforms where users can interact, learn, and reflect together.
7. Engagement and Empowerment (ISEL Standard 7)
His innovative approach to faith-based content creation can inspire educational leaders to consider how they can use digital tools for educational empowerment.
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Fr. Michael Schmitz addresses equity, diversity, and inclusion through his inclusive and compassionate approach to ministry.
By emphasizing the universal dignity of every person, addressing difficult issues with empathy, creating accessible digital spaces, and fostering respectful dialogue, he ensures that his leadership and teachings are welcoming to people from all walks of life.
His ability to engage with diverse audiences, especially young people, through media and pastoral care underscores his commitment to creating a Church that is both inclusive and transformative.
“Division takes away from living in community with those around us” - Fr. Michael Schmitz
He emphasis that we need each other as we each offer different talents and he reminds us that we are commanded to love one another.
Impact On My Catholic Leadership Journey
I can enact some aspects of Fr. Michaels approach when
- I get to know my learners and what issues they are facing.
- I address these issues, in relation to scripture, in a compassionate and down to earth manner.
- I make use of technological resources to enrich learning and provide interactive tools for students to explore their faith.
- I keep faith development relevant for young people by helping them make the connections between their faith and their lived experiences.
Adopting an Innovators Mind Set To Support Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Empathy is a core characteristic of an innovator's mindset that can strongly support a leadership stance on equity, diversity, and inclusion. It allows leaders to truly understand the challenges faced by diverse groups, adapt strategies to address those needs, and create inclusive environments where everyone feels valued.
1. Listen to Diverse Voices:
Truly address the needs of diverse individuals and ensure that no one is left behind.
2. Create an Inclusive Environment:
Create opportunities where everyone feels they belong.
3. Adapt to Needs and Barriers:
Find solutions that promote fairness and opportunity for everyone, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances.
4 Foster Collaboration:
Empathy encourages collaboration among diverse groups.
5. Model Compassionate Leadership:
Leaders who demonstrate empathy model behaviour that prioritizes understanding and respect for all individuals.
By listening, understanding, and responding to the experiences of others, leaders can innovate ways to create more equitable and inclusive systems.
