St. Joseph Calasanz: Founder of the Clerics Regular of the Religious Schools

•Priest 
•Feast day: August 25 
•1557-1648 

St. Joseph Calasanz, also known as José de Calasanz, was a Spanish priest and educator who dedicated his life to the education of poor children. Born on September 11, 1557, in Peralta de la Sal, Aragon, Spain, he grew up in a devout Christian family. From an early age, he felt a strong calling to serve God and committed himself to a life of holiness. His life’s work and legacy have left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and education worldwide.

Early Life and Education

Joseph Calasanz was the youngest of eight children in a noble family. He received an excellent education, studying at the University of Lérida, where he earned a doctorate in both civil and canon law. His father intended for him to pursue a career in law or politics, but Joseph felt drawn to the priesthood. After studying theology in Valencia and Alcalá de Henares, he was ordained in 1583.

Priesthood and the Call to Educate

After his ordination, Joseph held various positions in the Church in Spain, including vicar general of the Diocese of Urgel. However, in 1592, he felt called to go to Rome, where he witnessed the dire situation of poor children living in ignorance and deprivation. Moved by their plight, he resolved to dedicate his life to their education.

In 1597, Joseph Calasanz opened the first free public school in Europe, providing education to poor children in the Trastevere district of Rome. His mission was clear: to offer quality education to those who could not afford it, believing that education was the key to lifting people out of poverty and ignorance.

Founding of the Clerics Regular of the Religious Schools (Piarists)

As the demand for his schools grew, Joseph founded the Clerics Regular of the Religious Schools, also known as the Piarists, in 1617. The order was the first religious congregation dedicated to the education of youth, and its mission was to provide free education to children, especially the poor. The Piarists quickly expanded throughout Europe, establishing schools in Italy, Spain, Poland, and other countries.

The Piarists emphasized not only academic education but also moral and religious instruction. Joseph Calasanz believed that forming good Christians was just as important as forming good citizens. His schools were open to all children, regardless of social class, and focused on developing both intellectual and spiritual virtues.

Trials and Persecutions

Despite his success, Joseph Calasanz faced significant challenges and opposition throughout his life. His progressive approach to education and his commitment to the poor drew the ire of some in the Church and society. He faced jealousy, false accusations, and even internal conflicts within his order.

In 1642, due to a conspiracy by some of his own brethren, Joseph was removed from his position as head of the Piarists. He was humiliated and carried through the streets like a criminal. Additionally, the Piarist Order faced suppression when Pope Innocent X ordered its dissolution in 1646 due to accusations and misunderstandings.

However, Joseph Calasanz remained steadfast in his faith, accepting these trials with humility and trust in God. He famously said, “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.” Despite these setbacks, he continued to serve and inspire others until his death on August 25, 1648, at the age of 92.

Legacy and Canonization

In 1669, 21 years after his death, the Piarist Order was fully restored by Pope Clement IX, and it continued to grow and flourish around the world. Today, the Piarists are present in over 30 countries, continuing the mission of their founder to educate and uplift the youth.

St. Joseph Calasanz was beatified in 1748 by Pope Benedict XIV and canonized on July 16, 1767, by Pope Clement XIII. In 1948, Pope Pius XII declared him the “Patron Saint of Christian Schools,” recognizing his pioneering contributions to education.

St. Joseph Calasanz’s life is a testament to the power of education and the importance of serving the poor. His vision of providing free education to all, regardless of their social standing, laid the foundation for modern public education. His perseverance in the face of trials and his unwavering faith continue to inspire educators and Catholics worldwide. As we remember his life and legacy, we are reminded of the profound impact that one person’s dedication to a cause can have on the world.