Maria Montessori: An education system that passes the test of time

The Montessori method has methodically swept across the educational landscape, fostering young minds to think independently and shepherding parents to give their fawns a fair shot at a ripened yet revolutionary form of learning. With thousands of private and public schools across North America carrying on this legacy, why are Maria Montessori’s early 20th century revelations still so relevant?

The answer to this question is something John Chattin-McNichols, an associate professor of education at Seattle University, stumbled upon after he embarked on a serendipitous trip to Bergamo, Italy in 1970 — exactly 100 years after Montessori was born in a small town just a few hours away. At the time, the-then 20 year old was working as a summer helper at a Montessori school in the U.S., teaching preschoolers archery, ice-skating and other activities when he was approached to attend a training course abroad. “Because none of the Read more

Have Faith: Canada’s St. André Bessette

The Catholic Church has become a punchline. People hear ‘priest’ and they interpret ‘pedophile.’ Through scandals of corruption and an estimated worth of somewhere between one and two billion dollars, the Vatican is despised by many, including a lot of Catholics.

It is time to get creative and dig a little deeper for the truth that can supposedly set us free. Jesus said in John 8:31 and 32 that, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Is the Vatican really holding God’s teachings? Are the priests acting like true disciples? Maybe not, but there are still role models scattered throughout Catholicism that can teach us universal maxims that can help us discover true happiness. Read more

A Hopeful Wish

Make-A-Wish Canada brings happiness to children across the country living with life-threatening medical conditions. On May 26th, 2010, Madeline’s extraordinary wish came true. After embarking on a journey to magnificent Rome, Madeline and her family had the unforgettable experience of meeting the Pope. “I told him who I was, why I was there and asked him to pray for me, my health and my family,” says wish child Madeline. “He answered me by saying ‘Have faith in God.’” The family thanks everyone at Make-A-Wish, as well as TORO Aluminum and Flight Centre for sponsoring Madeline’s wish. Read more