The first International Congress on Carmelite Schools was held in Dublin, Ireland, from April 8th to the 13th. The setting chosen was Terenure Colege, the oldest school in the Order, which is celebrating its 150 years of foundation. The congress was attended by more than 70 friars, religious sisters and lay people who represented almost all our schools. These man and women are in charge of the education and formation of thousands of children and young people. Gathered during these days, the participants had the opportunity to share their work and experiences in Carmelite education. They discussed about the importance of transmitting our values and spirituality through our academic institutions.
This congress is a respond to the proposal approved by the General Chapter of 2007. It was organized by the International Commission of Carmelite Schools and Youth presided by Fr. Raul Maravi, O.Carm. The congress offered four wonderful lectures by Fr. Paul Chandler, O.Carm. (Aus), Fr. Micéal O´Neill, O.Carm. (Hib), Mr. Cesar Santa Maria (TOC Peru), and Sr. Visitacion Bas (HVMMC).
In addition, this international gathering was enriched by the presence and participation of our Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millan Romeral, O.Carm. (who presided the Sunday Eucharist in the presence of the school students and the participants in the congress), and from the four General Councilors of the Order, as a symbol of support of our General Council to our educational endeavor in all five continents.