IN PICTURES: Diocese of Derry Schools Religious Education Conference 2026

Over 1,200 school staff members gathered at Saint Columb's College in Derry for a major two-day educational conference titled "Drawing New Maps of Hope."

Organised by the Derry Diocesan Catechetical Centre, the event brought together Catholic educators from across the Diocese to reflect on their vocation, discuss contemporary challenges, and attend specialized research workshops ahead of the new academic year. The gathering featured addresses from regional church leaders and an international keynote speaker from the United States.

During the celebration of the Eucharist on both days, Bishop McKeown reflected on the Gospel account of Jesus walking on water (Matthew 14:22-33). He invited staff to consider whether, through what is modelled in Catholic schools, they can chart new pathways for our society. He encouraged those present to step out of the boat, expecting both mistakes and great things, and to celebrate the gifts of all young people, not only those of the so-called high achievers.

Encouraging those present to return to this Gospel story throughout the year, Bishop McKeown invited them to pray with it, to consider who they are within the story, and to reflect on what God may be saying to them through it. He reminded participants that, in order to "hear God and not just the roar of the storm or the jingles of the market's hidden persuaders", they need to "make space for prayer and silence."

Bishop-Elect of the Diocese of Derry, Bishop Michael Router, was also in attendance over the two days. Bishop Router took the opportunity to introduce himself to the Diocesan School Community and to acknowledge the ‘essential role’ carried out by staff in Catholic Schools in society today.

The keynote speaker, Dr Melodie Wyttenbach, Executive Director of the Roche Center for Catholic Education at Boston College, shared an uplifting and inspiring message as schools prepare for the year ahead. Drawing on Pope Leo XIV's Apostolic Letter, Drawing New Maps of Hope, and her extensive experience as a Catholic educator, she explored the conference theme and its significance for Catholic schools today.

Dr Wyttenbach encouraged those present to respond to Pope Leo's invitation "to lift our gaze and choose the way of gentleness, dialogue, and trust." Reflecting on the vocation of Catholic educators, she highlighted their unique role in accompanying young people with hope, compassion, and faith in an increasingly complex world.

Concluding her keynote address, Dr Wyttenbach said: "The map of the future is not yet drawn. It is being drawn in your lesson plans, in your quiet prayers before the morning bell, in your listening ear, and in the love you show to every child entrusted to your care. You are not merely teaching a subject; you are building the Kingdom of God. You are giving young people a compass for life, an anchor for their souls, and wings to fly. Go forth with courage. Step into your classrooms this year not with fear, but with joyful confidence, knowing that Christ walks before you, charting new maps of hope."

The conference offered staff an opportunity to pause, pray, reflect, and be renewed in their shared mission. As a new school year begins, those gathered were reminded that Catholic schools remain places of hope, encounter, and transformation, where young people are encouraged to grow in faith, wisdom, and service of others.