The Piarist School

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On August 25, we celebrate the memory of Saint Joseph Calasanz, an Italian priest who founded a teaching order that is now known as the Piarists. St. Joseph believed that education was a basic human right and he was one of the first to insist that education should be free and available to everyone, especially the poor. Today, Saint Joseph Calasanz is honored as one of the patron saints of teachers.

Today, the Piarist Fathers and Brothers minister around the world, including here in the United States. One of their missions is the Piarist School in Floyd County (Southeast Kentucky). This school serves as a tuition-free high school that makes a college-prep education available to youth from one of the poorest parts of the United States, regardless of their faith tradition.

The Piarist Fathers and their associates are trying to buy and renovate new property for the growing school. To learn about the school, the mission of the Piarists, and the Piarist School Outreach, click here. I especially encourage you to view the video from Bishop Gainer of the Diocese of Lexington, which can be found in the "Video" section.

We certainly celebrate the Piarist community during this Year of Consecrated Life. So, on this feast of St. Joseph Calasanz, please remember the Piarists and their students in your prayers and consider making a donation to continue their work in SE Kentucky. I had the privilege of visiting the school several years ago and truly hope you'll consider offering them a gift.

 

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