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Hanging on the wall of my local Christian book and gift store is a poster entitled, “And He Shall Be Called.” It’s a simple poster comprised solely of the various names or titles referring to Christ found in the Bible. Below each name, in very small print, is the scripture reference that includes the name.
Given its simplicity and lack of artistic images, its notable that in the 20 years since it was first printed, it has sold nearly 1.5 million copies. That speaks, I think, to the power of names.
Scripture reminds us, “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the just run to it and are safe.”
In ancient times, names tended to have more meaning when it came to the character of the person named, which is why God or Jesus Christ often changed the name of someone chosen to be something more, someone for whom there would be a new path in life. Perhaps the most memorable is the disciple Simon whose name meant “one who hears or listens.”
When Simon was brought to Jesus, the Lord told him, “You are Simon the son of John. You shall be called Cephas” (Peter). Simon had no idea why his name would be changed, but Jesus knew that Peter, whose new name meant “rock,” was the one upon whom Jesus would build his church. Simon most likely had no idea he had that kind of leadership or strength in him.
The same is true for our children, especially as they become teenagers and are carrying heavy baggage we may not know about or understand. They may not be aware of the many gifts, God-given gifts, or talents they have. By valuing and respecting their names, we start our relationship with them by giving them the opportunity to value and respect who they are, with all their potential and not just all their mistakes.
What are the fruits of learning and remembering student names?
Building community – Learning student names is the first step in the process of getting to know them and ensuring that they feel like they are an important part of a community. Using student names, and saying them correctly, builds connection and a sense for students that they are being seen and heard. Experts in the field also observed that using a child’s name when speaking to them helps encourage positive behavior.
Seeing Every Child – Many years ago, at the request of a Catholic school teacher, I wrote a story that included every student in her elementary classroom by name. I designed the story into a small booklet and printed enough so every student in the classroom would have one. The class had students of many different nationalities, so many of their names were unique and, for some, challenging to read and pronounce. This short story made sure that each of them felt a part of the classroom community. How might you make sure every name counts?
Nurturing respect – Respect is an important Christian value, not only the respect of others but, as importantly, self-respect. A child’s name is crucial to their identity as a person and member of a family. By remembering their names and using them as often as possible, especially if we can look at them eye-to-eye at their level, we reinforce to students that they are worthy of our love and respect.
Growing student rapport – For each student, learning other students' names is important to building respect, rapport, trust, and accountability between students. Part of the process is learning how to say names correctly. It becomes easier the more often names are said aloud in class. All teachers have their own ways of memorizing student names, which might include desk name tags. These are not only valuable for teachers, but for younger students, it helps them develop a sense that their desk is their own personal space.
About the AuthorMary Clifford Morrell, mother of six and grandmother to ten, is a Catholic journalist, editor, and author who has served the Dioceses of Metuchen and Trenton, New Jersey; Burlington, Vermont, and RENEW International in the areas of religious education and communication.
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