St. Joseph Calasanz: A Father to the Poor Through Education and Faith
St. Joseph Calasanz: A Father to the Poor Through Education and Faith Saint Joseph Calasanz is a beautiful example of compassionate service, dedication to education, and unwavering love for poor and neglected children. Born in Spain in 1557, he became a priest and eventually travelled to Rome. There, he encountered many poor children who had little or no opportunity to receive an education. Their situation deeply touched his heart and changed the direction of his life. Joseph realized that education could transform the lives of children and give them hope for the future. He believed that every child, regardless of social or economic background, deserved the opportunity to learn. More importantly, he wanted education to form not only the mind but also the heart, helping young people grow in faith, virtue, and love of God. He therefore established free schools for poor children and founded the Order of the Pious Schools, whose members became known as the Piarists. His mission was s...