Core Virtues

HUMILITY

We value the unique, God-given talents of others and place our own gifts at the service of the whole. Our daily interactions are characterized by mutual respect and a desire for the “best answer” over our own. We take the words of C.S. Lewis to heart:

“Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.”

INTEGRITY

We are honest and trustworthy with one another, and we communicate our true thoughts freely and openly, contemplating before we speak if our thoughts are 1) truthful, 2) improve the situation, 3) kind, 4) helpful, and 5) necessary. Our “yes” means “yes,” and our “no” means “no” (Matthew 5:37). Acting with integrity often requires courage and may take us out of our comfort zone.  Acting with integrity challenges us to grow into the unique person God created us to be.

FIDELITY

We ensure that every subject taught is faithful to the official teachings of the Catholic Church. Both tutors and students strive to live these teachings faithfully in our daily lives, especially in our relationships with one another as we serve the mission of St. Peter the Rock, with the help of God’s grace.

FORGIVENESS

“Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.”  “Love our neighbors as ourselves.”  We strive to be slow to anger and quick to forgive others so that we may be forgiven. 

CHARITY

Since “God is love” (1 John 4:8), we act kindly and respectfully towards one another, affirming each person’s unique gifts and “unrepeatability.” When necessary, we charitably offer constructive criticism and correction in a spirit of true fraternity in Jesus Christ.  We listen carefully and thoughtfully while others are speaking and treat each person, student or tutor, with dignity and respect.

PASSION

We are driven to share the truth and beauty of the Catholic Faith in our resources, classes, and interactions with others. This passion flows from our conviction that a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and his Church is the surest path to authentic happiness.  As tutors, we strive to instill a love of learning, to create a culture of honest communication, to challenge students to reach their potential, and to respect the unique gifts each student brings to our classroom.  As students we strive to devote our time and talent to fulfill our vocation of being students.  Whether we meet with success or failure, we will learn from our experiences and not let those experiences define who we are.  Each of us is created by God for a unique purpose.  Through perseverance, diligence, and an honest work ethic, we strive to become the best versions of ourselves we can be.

HOLINESS

“As he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct” (1 Peter 1:15). Acknowledging our dependence on God, we prayerfully strive each day to bring our thoughts, words, and actions ever more in line with our faith. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we have been “set apart” for His service, and we are committed to deepening our relationship with Him. We allow ourselves time each day to spend with Him in prayer, so that He may cover us with His holiness and we in turn share that with others.

JOY

Aware that “God is at work in all things” (Romans 8:28), we act joyfully and confidently in our daily work. When challenges arise, we strive to maintain a positive disposition to encourage one another and seek the best solution. To avoid discouragement we will seek guidance in our difficulties from those we trust.  When we feel overwhelmed by our workload, we will invite God into the moment to help us stay focused and not despair, understanding that even in our struggles Christ is present to guide, comfort, and teach us.