His life was marked by a profound commitment to serving the underprivileged through education, a vision that encountered both immense support and significant opposition throughout his 92 years.

Joseph Calasanz was born into a noble family and received a comprehensive education, including university training in canon law and theology. He earned a Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Lleida. Despite his family’s initial desire for him to marry and continue the family line, he felt a strong calling to the priesthood—a path he pursued after a serious illness in 1582 led his father to relent. He was ordained a priest on December 17, 1583. For nine years, he served in various ecclesiastical roles in Spain, including theologian, confessor, and vicar general.

In 1592, at the age of 35, Calasanz moved to Rome, initially seeking to advance his ecclesiastical career. However, he was deeply moved by the plight of the many neglected and homeless children in the city, particularly their lack of education.

He joined the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine and attempted to enroll these children in existing schools, but faced resistance from teachers unwilling to take on additional students without pay. This experience solidified his resolve to provide education for the poor.