Reflecting on his career in education, Deacon Joseph Rafferty recalls an Ernest Hemingway quote that guided him throughout his professional life: “Today is only one day in all the days that will ever be. But what will happen in all the other days that ever come can depend on what you do today.”
“This idea guided me throughout my years as an educator,” Deacon Rafferty said. “Each day brought a new opportunity to uplift a child’s spirit, guide them and bring them closer to God.”
Deacon Rafferty most recently served as principal of Saint Rose of Lima School, Haddon Heights, before retiring in December. His retirement brought to a close his 41-year career in education, which included teaching at Gloucester Catholic High School in Gloucester City, and serving as a teacher and administrator in both Catholic and public schools.
“It has truly been a wonderful and exciting career,” he said. “Education gave me the chance each day to make a difference in the lives of students –spiritually, academically and personally.”
Deacon Rafferty shared happy memories of his time at Saint Rose of Lima School, including getting to know and work alongside faculty, students and parents. He said he misses those daily interactions and the camaraderie that filled the school halls.
“It’s a tremendous school filled with wonderful students and families,” he said. “The teachers and staff are some of the hardest-working and most dedicated educators I’ve had the privilege to work with. The parish community has always supported the school – spiritually and financially – which made a real difference.”
Among the highlights of his time there: instituting Wednesday morning prayer gatherings in the gym, during which members of the school community would reflect, recognize student achievements and sing together.
“One of my proudest accomplishments was helping each student understand that they are loved, respected and belong to a faith-filled Catholic community,” he said.
Deacon Rafferty also oversaw a number of improvements to the school’s infrastructure and learning environment during his time as principal, including electrical system upgrades, air conditioning improvements and a full professional painting of the school’s gym. Phones were installed in all classrooms, and a modern security system with alarms and cameras helped to bolster safety across the campus.
The school also expanded professional development for teachers to help meet the learning needs of students.
“Above all, I’m most proud of using my role as a principal – and as a deacon – to help students encounter the grace and mercy of God through the traditions and teachings of the Catholic Church,” he said.
Terry Durkin, who now serves as the school’s interim principal, retired in 2022 after a 40-year career as a physical education teacher at Saint Rose. She recalls Deacon Rafferty’s sense of humor and the stories he would share about growing up in Gloucester City as some of the most enjoyable times when they worked together.
“I believe his legacy would be the religious aspect of not only an educator, but religious practices he implemented at St. Rose,” she said, adding that Deacon Rafferty was truly dedicated to the students’ faith development.
Today, the retired principal continues to serve as a deacon at Saint Rose of Lima Parish and Saint Mary Parish, Gloucester City. He works several days a week between the two parish communities. He has also been enjoying more time for prayer, Mass, reading and spending time with his grandchildren.
“My goal remains the same,” Deacon Rafferty said: “to help people experience the beauty and truth of the Roman Catholic faith in their everyday lives.”
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