On this day, August 29, Mr. Tommy Kostielney delivered a heart touching, inspirational message about the power and purpose of education. Speaking to other Catholic school teachers, administrators, pastoral ministers, and counselors during Catholic School Mission Day, he reminded the audience that those who work in education have, as he put it, “the best job in the world—or at least close to it.” His talk centered on gratitude, purpose, and the lasting impact teachers can have on others’ lives.

Mr. Kostielney explained that his motivation for speaking came from a desire to bring genuine inspiration to Mission Day. He shared that while these events often have a focus on one’s mission, they do not always leave listeners feeling inspired for their mission. Wanting to change that, he set out to craft a talk that would truly inspire. His students, he said, were his biggest motivation. The experiences he’s had with them, both inside and outside the classroom, shaped his reflections and helped him realize just how meaningful a teaching career can be.

In his talk, Mr. Kostielney emphasized a message that resonated deeply with many: “If others are not closer to being saints as a result of their time with us, we are failing.” He explained that this idea applies to everyone, no matter their role, because each moment offers an opportunity to help someone—and ourselves—grow closer to goodness and purpose.

Preparing for the keynote was no small task. Mr. Kostielney shared that he spent about nine months writing and revising his speech, narrowing down nearly six hours of material into just over one hour. Although he admitted to feeling nervous before stepping on stage, he said he loved the rush of excitement and pushed through the nerves. Once he began speaking, he focused on staying fully present with the audience, grateful for the opportunity to share something that felt deeply true to his experience.

Mr. Kostielney’s keynote left the Catholic School community inspired and reflective, reminding everyone that education is not just a profession—it is a calling to make others’ lives brighter and more meaningful, one moment at a time.