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Spirit of Wisdom Inspires Loretto’s Core Mission of Education

Posted on February 1, 2022, by Loretto Community

Black-and-white archival photo: A woman instructs a student at a blackboard doing math equations while two other students confer in the foreground.
Nancy Wittwer SL leads a math class at Nerinx Hall High School in St. Louis.
Archival photo courtesy of Nerinx Hall

In the Beginning — “When Loretto settled in Kentucky at the end of the 18th century, the members quickly realized the need of children in the area for education and religious formation. As they responded to the need, they found joy and meaning in their work and life together.”   

Loretto founder priest the Rev. Charles Nerinckx composed a simple rule and worked to define the purpose of the Community: “The glory of God, the honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the instruction of youth and the corporal service compatible with the spirit of the institute.” More than 200 years later, the purpose of Loretto holds strong. The members of Loretto “devote themselves entirely to God and neighbor. They serve, they teach, they love.” (Quotes from I Am the Way, Loretto’s Constitutions)

The seeds of Loretto education, in all its forms, take root and grow for future discovery. We invite all to search Loretto’s Facebook and Twitter posts this week to see how the work of education continues in the life of Loretto. Loretto students and teachers are meant to be lifelong learners. Various members will share their stories. Find out where the Loretto journey of education has taken us and what it means for us today.

Woman in mask takes a selfie with students in school uniforms.
Loretto Academy religion teacher Liz Deines SL takes a break from ninth grade retreat planning in times of COVID, with, from left, students Daniela Barraza, Ann Johny, Haley Nathan and Kylin Aguirre.
Photo by Liz Deines.
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Loretto welcomes you

Learn more or plan a visit to the Motherhouse!