By S.L. Hansen
for the Register
Catholic teachers and administrators from across the nation will gather in Lincoln next summer, July 15-18, 2025, for the Institute for Catholic Liberal Education (ICLE) National Conference.
Ever committed to Church teaching and historically Catholic approaches to education, the ICLE hosts a national conference each year. The goal is to equip educators to deepen their understanding of the long tradition of Catholic education. 
The ICLE defines Catholic liberal arts education as cultivating faith and reason “for full human flourishing.” It is “liberal” in that the focus is on finding freedom in Christ as He reveals Himself through His Church. By infusing this Catholic world view into all aspects of education, Catholic schools can foster each student’s ability to see and hear the presence of our Lord in the truth, goodness and beauty that surrounds them.
This internalization of theological, intellectual and moral virtues is a key component to Catholic liberal arts education. Saints such as Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, John Henry Newman, and Pope Benedict XVI were all educated in this way.
When conference attendees return to their classrooms, they will have gained tools to inspire students to pursue faith, wisdom and virtue, as well as form intellectual and moral habits that will last them throughout their lives.
Sister Mary Ruth, C.K., who teaches fifth grade at St. James School in Crete, said nearly all the St. James faculty members were able to attend the ICLE national conference in July.
“The experience more firmly united us in a shared vision and passion for Catholic education that is joyful and truly life-giving,” she said.
Inspired by the 2024 conference theme, “Behold the Beauty of the Lord,” the St. James School faculty worked together to surround their students with what Sister Mary Ruth called “beautiful artwork and nature that fosters wonder and gratitude for the Creator.”
In her own classroom, Sister Mary Ruth’s students are currently memorizing “The Hymn of Juan Diego” by James Matthew Wilson.
“During the conference, I was able to attend one of his [Wilson’s] presentations, which rekindled my love for poetry,” she said. “I have been able to share this with my students, and it’s been a blessing to witness how much they enjoy memorizing and internalizing these beautiful words.”
Teachers attending the ICLE National Conference “can look forward to spiritual and intellectual renewal in their purpose as Catholic educators,” Sister Mary Ruth said, “while also gaining practical tips and strategies that flow forth from the Church’s rich tradition.”
Registration for the ICLE National Conference will open in a few months. To sign up for notifications, teachers and administrators can visit the ICLE website: catholicliberaleducation.org. The site also includes other opportunities for formation and various resources for schools.
