Lisa Colbert

I believe that education of young people must be centered on the whole person.  As a religious educator, I believe that reflection is as important a skill in religious studies as computation is in the study of mathematics.  I strive to challenge my students to think and ponder questions that come to mind and to spend time contemplating abstract concepts of spirituality.  Adolescence is a time of searching for meaning and I truly believe that my students need to question and wonder about God and faith.  In my classroom, students are encouraged to question, wonder, reason and analyze the abstract concepts of faith and doctrine.  I believe that Catholic doctrine and faith concepts must be presented in ways that challenge critical thinking, to be followed by activities that direct students to contemplate the meaning of the concepts in their own personal faith lives.  It is my experience that students who wonder, challenge and reflect are able to bring a personal connection with God into their growing sense of spirituality.  As a Marianist educator, I believe that discovering one’s faith in the context of family is essential to our development as faith filled people—it is our very first faith community.  I try to create a family atmosphere in the classroom, with small groups helping to create small faith communities where students are comfortable and may discuss their personal faith challenges and questions.

I have been a Catholic high school Religion teacher for 30 years.  Most of that time has been spent in the Catholic Marianist tradition.  Previous to CJ, I was Campus Minister and a Religion teacher at Chaminade Madonna College Preparatory in Hollywood, Florida, my alma mater.  I have been at CJ since January 1993. I am involved with Ministry and Service and work with the Kairos retreat program for seniors. Having been connected with the Marianists since high school, I have a deep appreciation and connection to the Marianist education tradition.  I also serve the Province of the United States in various capacities:  I serve on the Province Office of Education Mission Integration Visitation Team, which works to assess the strengths and limitations of the Marianist sponsored high schools.  In this capacity, I have visited 6 of the 18 schools; I serve on the Board of Trustees for the Marianists at the Bergamo Retreat and Conference Center in Beavercreek.  Presently, my role is that of Board Chairperson.  I am active in my parish community of Precious Blood Catholic Church.  I have served in the role of catechist for children preparing for full initiation into the Church through RCIA.  I have been involved in Cub/Boy Scouting for several years as Den leader and Boy Scout leader.  I have spent the past three years as Troop Chaplain and recording secretary for Troop 55 in Englewood.  

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