Education of the Heart Training
On March 22, Sr. Joseane Cabral, MSC, extended a heartfelt invitation to reflect on the profound concept of the Education of the Heart with the dedicated teachers at the Holy Family Nursery School in Pagirinya Settlement. This gathering was not just a meeting; it was a special moment of enlightenment and growth, deeply rooted in the teachings of Mother Cabrini.
Sr. Albertina Ghislieri and Sr. Suany De Oliveira engaging in an outside activity with the teachers
The teachers, with their open hearts and minds, embraced this formation, creating a nurturing space for shared insights and collective growth. Below are some key points that were highlighted to deepen our understanding and appreciation of this transformative approach to education.
Involving the Whole Person: Education of the Heart is not a superficial method; it involves engaging the whole person’s mind, body, and spirit.
Central to Mother Cabrini’s Method: At the core of Mother Cabrini’s educational philosophy is the belief in educating the heart. She envisioned education as a journey “from the Heart of Christ to the heart of humanity,” with a focus on nurturing the hearts of children and young people to foster strong personalities.
Active Participation in Growth: The education of the heart encourages young people to actively participate in their growth. This approach helps them transform their hearts, strengthen their faith, and contribute positively to the world around them.
Forming Good Christians and Citizens: Mother Cabrini’s criteria for education focus on forming individuals who are both good Christians and responsible citizens, embodying the values of a "New Person in Jesus."
Beyond teaching : Education in this broader sense goes beyond traditional teaching methods. It is an evangelizing education encompassing education, formation, and instruction, ultimately preparing individuals for life.
Recognizing Gifts and Talents: Mother Cabrini understood that the true motivations driving behavior lie in the heart. Recognizing each person’s unique gifts, talents, and capacities is essential for educating the heart.
Fostering Relationships: Education of the Heart is also about helping individuals grow in their capacity for relationships, nurturing connections with others and the world.
The time dedicated to the training of the teachers was all important. It was a period of mutual learning and inspiration, fostering a deeper commitment to the principles of the Education of the Heart. As these teachers continue their journey, may they uphold and promote a genuine and impactful sense of this educational philosophy at the Holy Family School.
By Sr. Suany Angela, MSC
