St Paula Frassinetti : an outstanding educator

Abstract

The Oxford English Dictionary meaning of 'Education' is: "bringing up of the young; systematic instruction; development of character or mental powers". This is agreed upon by perhaps the majority of people interested in the subject; but there are variations of the actual meaning of the concept of Education as applied to the Educator and the Educated in general. It is hoped that this will be seen clearly as we go along, thus giving clarity to Education as such and Sister Paula's position as an outstanding educator. Paula Frassinetti (1809-1882) lived during the turbulent upheaval of political changes in Italy during the nineteenth century. She was born in a fervent Catholic family in Genoa, the only girl among four brothers, who were later called by God to the priesthood. Paula' s mother, Angela, died when she was only nine years of age. The widowed father invited his sister to look after the bereaved family, but only three years later she also died. It was then that the timid, unassuming girl, with maturity beyond her age, offered to become the housewife of the family. Selfless dedication to her father and brothers was the best preparation for her future mission. [...]