The initiative encourages reflection on the educational legacy of the Sacred Heart and its relevance in higher education.
By: Integrated Communications
As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional identity and integrate Sagrado’s educational mission across all areas of university life, the University of the Sacred Heart held the first session of the experiential workshop “The Spirituality and Educational Philosophy of the Society of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.”
Through guided activities, moments of introspection, and historical overviews, participants explored the educational legacy of the Sacred Heart and its application in today’s university context.
Workshop participants shared their reflections during group exercises.
The opening session, titled “Connecting with Our Essence for Group Integration and Personal Connection,” was led by Sr. Madeline Ortiz Rivera, RSCJ. Participants were invited to reflect on their inner fire, personal direction, and the presence of God in their journey—culminating in an invitation to “choose life.”
Later, Prof. José E. Hernández Carrasquillo, Ed.D., guided the group through a historical timeline reviewing the roots and evolution of the institution. This session explored belonging and identity through the historical lens of the Society of the Sacred Heart and, specifically, of Sagrado.
Next, the document “The Philosophy of Sacred Heart Education… A Gift of Sophia, A Call to the Future,” prepared by the International Education Committee of the Society of the Sacred Heart, was presented. This text served as a prelude to the third session, “Living the Educational Mission,” again facilitated by Sr. Ortiz Rivera, which included an engaging group dynamic fostering a deeper understanding of the educational philosophy.
Cover of the document “Filosofía Educativa del Sagrado Corazón.”
To conclude the workshop, Rev. Fr. Yamil Samalot Rivera, OP, introduced the online course “Educating Spirituality of the Sacred Heart of Jesus,” offering participants an opportunity to continue deepening their understanding of the workshop’s themes.
The session marked the beginning of a series of experiences designed to encourage Sagrado’s faculty and staff to further explore their identity as educators and collaborators within a mission that unites history, spirituality, and service.