Addressing Needs

It takes boldness, daring and courage to step into the unknown. St. Angela Merici who began the Companions of St. Ursula, in the 15th century known better as simply "the Ursulines" wanted to meet the needs of her city, Brescia, Italy, and times by having her sisters educate students in their homes, for she saw that unless the whole family be engaged in education, what the students would receive would only be superficial. To make this happen naturally, the sisters would not wear habits nor would they be restricted to the cloister. All of this was very radical and, naturally, met with opposition. Eventually Canon Law requiring some restrictions and a habit was imposed, but the spirit of including the entire family in the educational process remained.
Our Marist schools, though not directly including the family, do attempt to keep the lines of communication between school and parents open and with electronic communication so available, this is becoming easier and easier. The world of techonology is opening doors perhaps never imagined and is allowing education to reach students more effectively and efficiently. What lies ahead could match the radical approach of St. Angela. May we not fear to do what's needed to meet the needs of the times.
Bro. Rene