The Saint John Kanty Association of Theological Schools in Poland

Abstract

Religious life in Poland functioned according to the possibilities that life under the partitions created. The invaders created many difficulties in the functioning of the Church and in the education of the clergy. That left a trace in the form of a diverse formation in theological colleges for the clergy. After Poland regained its independence in 1918, the Polish Episcopate wanted to unify the seminary formation. And that is why the Saint John Kanty Association of Theological Schools was established. Its task was to consider educational and didactic actions at high seminaries/theological schools. The Association worked in accordance with the charter approved by the religious and civil authorities. They met in general meetings every two years. The meetings were a place of reflection and exchange of ideas and inspiration to undertake activities improving didactic and educational work. There were eight general meetings before the Second World War started. There were also eight memoirs published, which were a record of events at subsequent general meetings.