April 7: Saint John Baptist de la Salle / San Juan Bautista de la Salle

Saint John Baptist de la Salle live in the late 17^th and early 18^th centuries. At one point in his priestly life, he was moved by the plight of the poor who seemed so “far from salvation,” either in this world or the next. He became determined to put his own talents and education at the service of the children who otherwise had no access to a good education. He abandoned his family home, renounced his Church position and his wealth, and formed the community that became known as the Brothers of the Christian Schools.

The educational “establishment” in his day resented his innovative methods and insistence on opening the doors to all students, whether they could afford to pay or not. Nevertheless de La Salle and his Brothers succeeded in creating a network of high-quality schools throughout France that featured instruction in the vernacular, students grouped according to ability and achievement, integration of religious instruction with secular subjects, well-prepared teachers with a sense of vocation and mission, and the involvement of parents. Their work quickly spread throughout France and, after his death, continued to spread around the globe.

In 1900, de La Salle was declared a saint. In 1950, he was made patron Saint of all those who work in the field of education.

For more: https://www.cbu.edu/about/lasallian-tradition/st-john-baptist-de-la-salle/

Para leer más: https://www.lasalle.org.mx/san-juan-bautista-de-la-salle-2/