Professor of Education and Associate Dean, Teaching and Learning Dr. Emiliano Gonzalez and Professor Emeritus [Counseling] Sr. Marie Faubert, CSJ, both from the School of Education and Human Services along with Professor of Theology and Director of Center Semillero Fr. Dempsey Rosales Acosta, collaborated on a new book, "A Meditation on Jesus as Role Model for Catholic Christian  Education," published in October 2023 by RIL Editors.

The content in this book allows for a personal perspective on ways education can be viewed by examining the spiritual relevance of teaching as a calling and putting teaching as a ministry to serve all people. Jesus, the greatest paragon of pedagogy, exemplifies how He taught and interacted with diverse groups of people from different languages, religious beliefs, and ways of being, never judging or excluding anyone. From a global and inclusive approach, his pedagogical praxis consisted of reflective practice where individuals reflected on his teachings and chose personal transformation at their levels of comfort.

The blending of these three scholars' varied disciplines (Education, Counseling, and Theology) is fascinating, at times challenging, and provocative through the immersive and daily reflective practice through the calling of teaching while deepening one's spiritual life. Each wrote their assigned chapter, and each read and provided feedback until it was agreed by all three.

"It was fun as we all worked in great harmony and were open to feedback," Gonzalez said.

"The inspiration for this book came about through discussion the three of us would have on education, religion, and mental health of students and teachers," Gonzalez said. "We all would meet and talk about what the book could look like from the three different perspectives and expertise each could contribute.

 "What makes this book interesting and exciting is not to change anyone's perspective or belief system but allow the reader to explore, reflect on the readings and find ways to act while interacting with the content to be that greatest teacher every student deserves," Gonzalez said.

The book is available on two international platforms: Buy here or here.