Saint of the Day: John Baptist De La Salle, Father of Modern Education, Patron Saint of Teachers


John Baptist De La Salle was born at Rheims in France in 1651. After ordination to the priesthood, he devoted himself to the education of boys and the founding of schools for the poor. He liquidated his personal fortune (about $400,000) and donated it to the poor in the form of bread during the great famine of 1683-1684.

He Instituted the process of dividing students into grades and established the first teacher's school. He started high schools and trade schools. In 1950, Pope Pius XII proclaimed him as the patron of all teachers of all youth.

He brought his companions together as a religious congregation, for the sake of which he endured many sufferings. He died at Rouen in 1719.

Quote:

Be driven by the love of God because Jesus Christ died for all, that those who live may live not for themselves but for him, who died and rose for them. Above all, let your charity and zeal show how you love the Church. Your work is for the Church, which is the body of Christ.
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