“Be diligent in serving the poor. Love the poor, honor them, my children, as you would honor Christ Himself.”
St. Louise de Marillac
Catholic Schools Week: Formed in Faith and Learning
By Sebastian Isaacs, Communications intern
Patrick Farrell has served as an educator in Cincinnati Public Schools since 1991, inspired in his teaching by his great-aunt, S. Francis Beatrice Hennegan.
Patrick Farrell has worked in Cincinnati Public Schools since 1991. Currently, he teaches at Dater High School, where he has taught Ancient World History, Modern World History, American Government, and Economics since 2003.
He attributes his inspiration as an educator to both his Catholic education and his great-aunt, the late S. Francis Beatrice Hennegan, whom he describes as having “demonstrated kindness and a Christ-like spirit toward the people she served.”
S. Francis Beatrice lived from 1907 to 1992 and served in various teaching ministries until 1967, when she was appointed provincial superior, a role she held until 1972. She spent her remaining years in ministry at Good Samaritan Hospital as a visitor. Patrick fondly remembers visiting her with his siblings, recalling how she would buy them lunch in the hospital cafeteria. “We thought that was a big treat,” he says. “She was so gentle and kind—a true servant of God.”
Having attended Catholic school at St. Cecilia through eighth grade, Patrick’s faith was nurtured from a young age. Following his graduation from the University of Cincinnati, Patrick reflects, “I know God placed people around me from an early start, including S. Francis Beatrice, who influenced my decision to become a teacher.”
After spending several years in the insurance industry, Patrick pursued graduate studies at Xavier University, where he earned his master’s degree and teaching certification. He returned to his interest in history while teaching at the Jacob Center, Crest Hills Middle School, and Merry Middle School, before eventually landing at Dater, where he has now taught for 22 years.
“As the Book of Psalms says, ‘The Lord directs the steps of the godly… though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand,’” Patrick shares. “I believe God directed my steps, and S. Francis Beatrice was used by God to influence me—albeit indirectly.”
Though expectations for educators have changed since the 1960s, with the implementation of standardized curricula and the integration of technology, Patrick continues to see the lasting impact of his Catholic education and his great-aunt’s example.
He believes that “order, discipline, and routine are godly qualities” that remain important throughout life. Known as “The General” during her years as an educator, S. Francis Beatrice was firm with both students and staff; yet, according to Patrick, she “also displayed Christ-like behavior in her role as a teacher and principal.” He adds, “I have tried to be firm, but fair, with my students as well.”
“God called both of us into the field of education,” Patrick reflects. Although he never experienced his great-aunt as an educator firsthand, her lifelong devotion to teaching and service shaped his own sense of calling. Their shared commitment to education forged a meaningful bond. “We each answered God’s call to serve students and others for many years.”
Inspired by S. Francis Beatrice and the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati, Patrick hopes this guiding principle is reflected in his classroom and community: “Be sure to follow God’s path for your life. It will show in your everyday life and work.”
patrick with family
Patrick Farrell and his wife, Susan (third from left), with their adopted children (left to right) Jiamei, Christa, Caitrin, and Chase.
S. Francis Beatrice Hennegan
S. Francis Beatrice Hennegan’s Christ-like witness as a teacher and principal deeply influenced her great-nephew, Patrick Farrell, as an educator.
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