The Jesuit schools in Portugal: their Ignatian commitment
By António Valério, SJ
The Portuguese Province of the Society of Jesus currently has two schools. One in Lisbon, Colégio S. João de Brito, and the other in Areias, Colégio das Caldinhas. These two schools are a source of significant mobilization and apostolic creativity. The Jesuits, laymen, and women, through collaboration and teamwork, carry out various educational projects that deserve the trust many families place in us.
Beyond academic excellence, these schools promote moral values considering each student's richness and diversity. We accompany them in their abilities, dreams, family and social context, and their expectations for the future. This mission is carried out with a human and spiritual environment that allows each student to feel capable of opening oneself to the future.
The Jesuits here help in understanding the Spiritual Exercises and how to practice discernment so that we can better serve our students. Recently, we have been working on spiritual formation for educators to help them succeed in their leadership roles or acquire skills related to Ignatian pedagogy. This will help ensure that our schools continue to fulfil their mission over the long term.
The visit of Father General to the province of Portugal will help the staff and management better understand the Society’s mission. The Universal Apostolic Preferencesplay a vital role in articulating Ignatian pedagogy into the academic curriculum. This practice involves caring for nature, sustainable development, and accompanying the youth to find meaning and zest through spiritual guidance and counselling.
Education for transformation is seen through creating a strong association with the alums, who feel committed to eradicating poverty, discrimination and injustice in society. We feel challenged at the same time, supported by the grace of God to carry forward this mission of the Gospel, bringing it to life through education.
We
believe our meeting with Father General will be an occasion to confirm our path
and the encouragement we need to succeed in our mission.
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