Catholic education a place for youth evangelization
	Bishop David Motiuk Ukrainian Eparchy of Edmonton

Bishop David Motiuk explains the importance of youth in faith and Catholic education

Bishop David Motiuk is rejoicing at being able to return to his home province and being able to carry out his work in Alberta.

Born in Vegreville, Alberta and raised in Lavoie, Alberta Bishop Motiuk is very familiar with his diocese, a familiarity that affords him a special connection with the area.

"It is wonderful to be here. I know we must answer God's call wherever we are invited to serve, but to be amongst one's family and friends is a blessing," says Motiuk.

As Bishop of the Ukrainian Eparchy of Edmonton, Bishop Motiuk is quick to point out the importance of education and especially Catholic education.

"Catholic education responds to the call to help young people reach their potential," explains Motiuk.

"They recognize that they are created in God's image."

Further to this, Motiuk draws a connection between the role of the Church and its support of Catholic education.

"In schools and parishes we help young people acquire tools needed to grow in their faith and make sense of the world for them."

One of the most important things that Motiuk stresses about Catholic education is the potential that it allows for youth to evangelize to their fellow youth.

He notes that sharing messages of faith between students is one of the most powerful ways that growth and faith development can take place.

"Both schools and parishes need to help young people in the role of evangelization," says Motiuk. "Young people are our future, but they are also our present."