August 27: Saint Joseph Calasanctius, Patron of Schools
Joseph Calasanctius ... from his earliest years gave signs of his future love for children and their education. For, when still a little child, he would gather other children around him and would teach them the mysteries of the faith and holy prayer. He was deeply learned in sacred and profane (i.e. secular) letters, What better way to grow up than by not only learning about the faith and prayer but teaching others. Indeed here is a man, whose life should be imitated by all. Further on the Breviary recounts: Although he was the superior of the whole Order, he devoted himself with all his might to the salvation of souls, but he never ceased teaching children, especially the poorer classes, and would sweep out their school-rooms, and was accustomed to escort them from their homes.
As we prepare to enter another school year, let us pray to this patron of schools to guide us in this most important task of educating children. Fathers, especially should pray, because it is their job to teach their children, especially through good example.
PRAYER: Saint Joseph, bless us as we enter another school year, that we may learn and increase in virtue. Amen.
