August 29, 2012. (Romereports.com) This was the small room of St. Joseph Calasanctius, the Spanish priest and educator who was born back in 1556. Eventually he founded the Order of the Pious Schools.
Over 400 years ago, he launched the first free public school for poor children in Europe. It was here, in this room that he spent his last 36 years until he died in 1648 at the age of 91. The room was locked until he was beatified 100 years later. This rope, which is still well kept, was used by him when he was elderly, as a tool to move around.
ADOLFO GARCÍA-DURÁN DE LARA
Escolapius
“And when he died, even those who persecuted him said, 'he will be a saint.' His room was locked and since then, no one else has lived there. It has remained unchanged. They also took an inventory of all his things.”
From the furniture, to the ceilings, the windows and the floors are all original. In fact, several of his personal items were left intact. Like his glasses, his prayer book, the chalice and distinctive hat. Even his silverware and even pens and imprints he used to write thousands of letters.
ADOLFO GARCÍA-DURÁN DE LARA
Escolapius
“Even if it's only to see see his office and see the oil used in his small lamp. The same one he used to write so many letters. We have about five thousand of his letters. He led the entire Order, from this his office.”
Tradition says that the Virgin appeared before him in this room. The Order is also known for being the first to take a fourth vow to educate and teach.
Then there are the relics of St. Jose de Calasanz which of course have a special meaning to members of this Order. His heart which honors his charity, his tongue represents his love for teaching. His head, symbolizes all his studies and his spleen, which represents his humility.
OFL/KLH
AM
GdP
- MGZ
