September 2026
The Division theme for the 2026-2027 school year is Rooted in Joy. Inspired by Galatians 5:22 and the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary, this theme invites our students, staff, and families to grow in a deeper relationship with Christ, the source of lasting joy.
The Five Roots of Joy provide a framework for living out this theme across our schools and communities:
- Faith
- Adventure
- Service
- Worship
- Discovery
Together, these five roots help us explore how joy is lived out in our learning, relationships, faith, and daily lives across Edmonton Catholic Schools.
First Joyful Mystery: The Annunciation
ECSD Root: Faith
Mary’s response to the Archangel Gabriel is a profound example of faith, trust, and humility. Despite uncertainty, she surrendered to God’s will, saying, “Let it be done to me according to your word.” In a culture that often encourages people to define truth for themselves, Mary reminds us that true freedom is found when our lives are grounded in God. Faith provides the foundation and direction our students are seeking, and ECSD will continue to help them deepen that relationship with God.
Second Joyful Mystery: The Visitation
ECSD Root: Adventure
Following the Annunciation, Mary immediately set out to serve Elizabeth, demonstrating that faith leads to joyful action. Adventure is our response to God’s call to step beyond comfort and pursue a meaningful purpose. Whether through everyday acts of courage or significant life commitments, adventure invites us to embrace responsibility, confront the unknown, and grow. As Catholic educators, we are called to help students discern and answer their own call to a joyful and purposeful life.
Third Joyful Mystery: The Nativity
ECSD Root: Service
The Nativity reveals a God who comes to us not in power, but in humility. Jesus’ birth teaches that love begins with compassion, vulnerability, and a willingness to walk alongside others. Service brings joy because it shifts our focus from ourselves to the needs of those around us, while also revealing God’s love through our actions. Like Saint Mother Teresa, we discover that the more deeply we love and serve others, the more deeply we experience joy.
Fourth Joyful Mystery: The Presentation
ECSD Root: Worship
In presenting Jesus at the Temple, Mary and Joseph demonstrate gratitude, obedience, and reverence for God. Worship reminds us that everything is a gift from God, and invites us to respond with thanksgiving and praise. Joy naturally flows into worship, and worship deepens our joy, thereby creating a cycle that draws us closer to God. Through prayer, gratitude, and liturgical life, we will continue to strengthen a culture of joyful worship throughout Edmonton Catholic Schools.
Fifth Joyful Mystery: The Finding in the Temple
ECSD Root: Discovery
The Finding in the Temple highlights Jesus’ wisdom and the lifelong journey of learning and growth. Discovery occurs most fully when Christ is at the center of our search for truth, understanding, and purpose. In a rapidly changing world shaped by technological advances and artificial intelligence, critical thinking and discernment are more important than ever. We will continue to challenge our students to pursue truth boldly and to grow into the people God created them to be.
Living the Five Roots of Joy
The Five Roots of Joy shape how Edmonton Catholic Schools approaches faith formation, learning, leadership, relationships, and service. They were developed and introduced by Chief Superintendent Lynnette Anderson through prayer and reflection of the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary.
Together, Faith, Adventure, Service, Worship, and Discovery provide a framework for helping students flourish academically, spiritually, socially, and emotionally.
As a Catholic learning community, we strive to remain rooted in Christ, the source of all joy.