Jean-Baptiste de La Salle

Saint Jean-Baptiste de La Salle was born on April 30, 1651, into a wealthy family in Reims, France. From an early age he was set apart for God’s service, becoming a canon of Reims Cathedral while still young and pursuing advanced studies in Paris. Orphaned in his early twenties, he shouldered responsibility for his siblings, and in time was ordained a priest in 1678. Providence drew him toward the poor through his work with the Sisters of the Child Jesus, where he met the schoolmaster Adrian Nyel. What began as simple assistance in opening schools soon became La Salle’s life offering: the Christian education of children who had little hope for learning or advancement. He crossed social boundaries to live with and form teachers, resigned his canonry, gave away his inheritance during famine, and founded the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools—an innovative community of consecrated lay educators. He helped pioneer teacher training and practical methods of instruction, enduring opposition with steadfast faith. He is venerated as the patron saint of teachers of youth and of many schools. His feast day is April 7.