M.ª Pilar Gascón Langa gave a lecture entitled ‘Genesis of the Teresian Association in Seville’ to mark the centenary of its presence in the city (1925-2025).
The event took place on 11 November at the Centro Itálica as part of the various celebrations to mark the centenary of the Teresian Association's presence in Seville.
Mª Pilar Gascón Langa, a graduate in Geography and History and former teacher and Director of Centro Itálica, delved into the origins of the Teresian Association during her presentation in order to better understand the present and dream of the future.
Historical overview
She began by describing Pedro Poveda's first steps in Seville in 1897, when he enrolled for his degree at the Faculty of Theology. She then went on to describe the long and difficult process that led to the inauguration of the Academia Inmaculada y San Luis de Sevilla on 29th September 1925.
Despite all the problems he encountered along the way, Poveda proved to be ‘invincible to discouragement,’ always moving forward, and in this case, not only himself, but also his collaborators who did not falter. ‘Thanks to the tenacity of these women, especially Pepa Grosso, and the support of so many people in Seville,’ the foundation of the Academia became a reality.
The speaker went on to discuss its activities and development. It aimed to ‘promote study, Christian education, social awareness, reflection and critical thinking among students through lectures, study groups, associations, excursions and cultural and religious activities, both organised by the Academia itself and in the city.’ All of this was done through personalised education, with a focus on experience, classroom environment, resources and educational spaces.
Another social activity that has been carried out since the beginning is the involvement of a group of students in catechesis at the Parish of La Magdalena, through free classes for working women. A constant feature of Poveda's education is ‘encouraging young women to come into contact with and learn about different social realities in their environment.’
To conclude, Pilar Gascón ended her presentation by recalling several significant milestones in the life of the Academia.
TA - Spain.
Ta Translation Team.
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