Spirit of Catholic Education award recipient goes viral
FATHER Ray Crowley is this year’s Spirit of Catholic Education Award recipient.
When his win was posted on the Catholic Education Week Facebook page, he had nearly 6000 hits in the first few hours.
Not surprising, given the many current and past students and staff that have had their lives influenced by Fr Ray’s care, compassion and friendship. Fr Ray has served as College chaplain to St Saviour’s, St Mary’s and St Joseph’s Colleges for some four decades in Toowoomba.
During this time he has cultivated strong and trusted relationships that have led to many former students calling Fr Ray a ‘friend’ and continuing to call on him at pivotal times in their lives, whether it be births and marriages, or at times of tragedy or grief.
Acting principal of St Saviour’s College, Sharon Collins, who nominated Fr Ray for this award said, “for many at our schools, Fr Ray is the ‘face of God’, particularly for those who do not have a direct link nor experience of ‘church’.”
“His personable nature and practical way of seeing the world captivates the most unlikely and sceptical.”
For staff, Fr Ray is a friend and confidant. He is trusted, has a strong sensitivity to those who are suffering, and will go above and beyond to ensure they know they are supported.
In the wider community, Fr Ray’s commitment to grief counselling has seen him touch the lives of many and bring comfort when it is most needed.
“Fr Ray’s integrity and compassion and his willingness to give of his time and to walk with people where they are at is unparalleled,” Ms Collins said. “When people are in the murkiness of uncertainty, he points them in the direction of faith and love.
“His legacy will live on in our school communities for years to come.”
The Spirit of Catholic Education awards are in their 11th year and acknowledge the outstanding contribution individuals make to schools and their communities.
❝practical
His personable nature and way of seeing the world captivates the most unlikely and sceptical.
— Sharon Collins