Between July 22 and August 9, 2025, Colégio São Luiz welcomed, for the first time, a group of ten students and two teachers from Istituto Leone Dehon, in Monza, Italy. The visit was part of the exchange program that began in January, when Brazilian students traveled to Italy, and aimed to experience cultural immersion, family life, and the exchange of teaching and learning practices, strengthening ties between the Dehonian institutions.
During their stay, the visitors took part in classes, cultural activities, and regional tours, and became acquainted with the works and communities of the Congregation in Brazil, experiencing hospitality and Dehonian spirituality.
Testimonies That Reflect the Dehonian Vocation
Teachers Giacomo Barzaghi and Jacopo Castelli highlighted the enriching nature of the experience, the students’ integration into their host families, and the strong sense of community at the school. Among the students, impressions such as warm hospitality, the structure of Colégio São Luiz, natural beauty, and Brazilian cuisine made a lasting impact, leaving emotional memories and enduring bonds.
Many visitors emphasized the opportunity to experience the daily life of a Brazilian school and to visit cities with a strong Italian heritage. Living in close contact with host families allowed them to share stories, learn new customs, and deepen their understanding of the values of fraternity and hospitality.
Making Father Dehon’s Ideals a Reality
For Fabrício Bado, coordinator of Middle School at Colégio São Luiz, the exchange is a tangible expression of Father Dehon’s ideals: “To form citizens who are aware, compassionate, and open to the world. The warm welcome from families and the enthusiasm of everyone involved reaffirm our educational mission.”
The experience confirms the commitment of Colégio São Luiz and the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart of Jesus to providing an education that goes beyond borders – rooted in hospitality, fraternity, and holistic formation – building bridges between cultures and inspiring new exchange initiatives.
