Piarists in action

What do we do?

In most countries of the world it is considered normal for education to be the responsibility of the public sector.
St Joseph Calasanzio and the early Piarists (generally known as the Scolopi) began something new for the world. They believed that society could only improve if all its members, without any distinction or discrimination, and especially children, received an education. This is why they started what many consider to be the first systematic provision of public education. They dedicated themselves to the education of children and needy young people and to teaching them in such a way that they should become responsible Christian members of society.


This dream of giving a Christian education to all children is as vital today as it was then The Scolopi fathers and brothers follow Jesus Christ by teaching young people in America, Europe, Africa and Asia.
They have championed education for more than four centuries and they are still deeply concerned for the dreams and aspirations of young people.

Their religious life in their communities is a witness to the Gospel in many ways: through general educational policy; in day-to-day classroom teaching; organising youth groups; helping young people towards their experience of God. The Scolopi discovered Jesus in children and fulfil their vocation by serving them.

With their religious vow to dedicate themselves to the Christian education of youth, the Scolopi serve God and the Church. This is why, for the Scolopi, this pledge to educate young people is a sacred vocation.