Saint John Baptist de La Salle

​Saint John Baptist de La Salle​

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Saint John Baptist de La Salle, the visionary founder of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, was born in Reims, France, in 1651. He dedicated his life to educating the poor and revolutionizing the educational system. His innovative teaching methods and deep faith laid the foundation for modern education.

 

Early Life and Calling

John Baptist de La Salle was born into a wealthy family but felt a calling to serve the underprivileged. He was ordained as a priest in 1678, and soon after, he began working with a group of teachers, sharing his vision of providing free, quality education to children from poor families.

 

Innovations in Education

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De La Salle introduced several pioneering educational practices, including teaching in the vernacular instead of Latin, establishing teacher training programs, and emphasizing a structured, disciplined learning environment. He believed in educating the whole person, addressing both academic and moral development.

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Founding the Brothers of the Christian Schools

 

In 1680, De La Salle founded the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, commonly known as the De La Salle Brothers. This religious community of laymen dedicated themselves to teaching and living together in a spirit of brotherhood. The order rapidly grew and spread across Europe and eventually the world.

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Legacy and Impact

 

Saint John Baptist de La Salle's educational philosophy has had a lasting impact, shaping the foundations of modern pedagogy. Today, La Salle schools in over 80 countries continue his mission, providing holistic education rooted in faith, service, and community. De La Salle was canonized as a saint in 1900 and declared the Patron Saint of Teachers in 1950.

 

Quotes from De La Salle

• "To touch the hearts of your students is the greatest miracle you can perform."

• "Example makes a much greater impression than words."

 

Join us in celebrating the enduring legacy of Saint John Baptist de La Salle, whose vision continues to inspire and guide our educational mission at La Salle Jerusalem.