 Saint
John Baptist De La Salle was born in Rheims in France in 1651. At that time,
only the wealthy could afford an education. At the age of 29, De La Salle set
about changing this- he did what he thought needed to be done – to help the poor
through education. He gathered around him a group of ordinary men and opened the
first Christian schools. These schools were free. The Parish or rich benefactors
used to pay for the upkeep of the “Brothers” as the teachers came to be named.
John Baptist De La Salle was a very progressive man – he created the first
education system. His schools commenced the “simultaneous” method of education
where students were taught in classes instead of singularly.
From the very beginning, De La Salle came to realise that the schools would
become successful and stable only to the extent that the teachers (and everyone
else) were united in a common vision, a shared dedication and supportive
community. His vision contained three fundamental elements: Faith, Service and
Community. There were many times, De LaSalle felt disillusioned and suffered
many setbacks, but he had faith and commitment.
De La Salle was a very intelligent and practical man –a man who instigated many
firsts. He arranged for lessons to be taught in French, the native language.
Prior to this, lessons had been taught in Latin, a language no one used in their
homes. He opened the first teacher Training College and he began the first ever
trade schools. He even opened the first boarding school.
De La Salle embraced all classes and all conditions of society. As founder of
the Brothers of the Christian Schools, De La Salle’s work continues today.
Saint John Baptist de LaSalle died in Rouen, 7th April 1719. He was canonised by
Pope Leo XIII, 24 May 1900. Pope Pius XII declared him to be the Heavenly Patron
of all Teachers, 15th May 1950.
To find out more about the life of Saint John Baptist De La Salle visit www.lasalle.org.au.
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