On 21 May 2025, Fr. Emmanuel Suárez, Delegate of the Father General, and the members of the secretariat convened the heads of the European demarcations to share with them their reflections on how the Project of Piarist Presence is developing in some demarcations, such as Emmaus, Bethany and Nazaret.
Guillermo presented a historical summary of the concept of ‘Piarist Presence’ in the Order of the Pious Schools, from its introduction in 2014 to its inclusion in the rules of the Order in 2016. He highlighted the importance of the Project of Piarist Presence in the configuration of Piarist communities and its promotion at the general and local levels. Juan Fernando began by explaining the concept of Piarist presence from the perspective of the Province of Nazareth.
Raúl González discussed the evolution of the Piarist demarcation, highlighting its focus on pastoral care, education and volunteer formation, and its growing commitment to the community. He also emphasised the importance of co-responsibility and collaboration between different groups within the demarcation, and how this has allowed for greater diversity and enrichment of its projects and initiatives.
Raúl González highlighted the Piarist identity as a key element of their mission, and how this identity has developed and strengthened through the participation and collaboration of different groups within the demarcation. The team discussed their experiences and reflections on how presence works in their respective provinces, with a focus on the importance of coordination, connection and the dynamics of shared mission.
The members in the meeting also shared their thoughts on the challenges and opportunities of implementing the Piarist Presence Project in different contexts, with an emphasis on the need for patience and community participation. The meeting concluded with a call to continue reflection and share experiences through a form, with the aim of improving the functioning of the Piarist Presence Project throughout Europe.
Finally, Fr. Carles Gil, Assistant General for Europe, shared his view of the Demarcations in this area. He encouraged all those present to continue consolidating the Pious Schools in the European Demarcations.
