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Introduction
The Institute
The Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, commonly known as the De La Salle Brothers (FSC), is a Catholic lay religious congregation of pontifical right for men. Founded in France by Saint Jean-Baptiste de La Salle, the Institute is now headquartered in Rome, Italy. Its primary mission is to provide a human and Christian education, particularly to the poor and marginalized.
Global Reach
As of December 2023, the Institute comprises 2,883 Brothers operating in 1,154 educational centers across 78 countries. These institutions serve over 1.16 million students, supported by approximately 107,827 teachers and lay associates, demonstrating a profound and enduring global impact on education.
Lasallian Identity
The Brothers are often referred to as "Lasallians" in recognition of their founder. They are distinct from the Congregation of Christian Brothers (Irish Christian Brothers). The Institute's motto, Signum Fidei (Sign of Faith), encapsulates their commitment to living and sharing their faith through their educational apostolate.
Founder: Saint Jean-Baptiste de La Salle
Visionary Educator
Saint Jean-Baptiste de La Salle (1651–1719) was a French canon, theologian, and religious reformer. He dedicated his life to establishing schools for the poor and marginalized, revolutionizing educational methods by introducing class divisions based on attainment and emphasizing vernacular language instruction. His foundational work laid the groundwork for the Institute.
The Encounter with Adrian Nyel
In March 1679, La Salle met Adrian Nyel, who sought his assistance in opening free schools for impoverished boys in Reims. This pivotal encounter marked the beginning of La Salle's commitment to this apostolate, leading to the establishment of a novitiate and normal school in Paris in 1694. This collaboration fostered the "vow of association" that continues to define the Brothers' community life.
Patron of Youth
Canonized in 1900 and declared the Special Patron of All Teachers of Youth in the Catholic Church by Pope Pius XII in 1950, Saint Jean-Baptiste de La Salle's legacy is recognized globally. His innovative pedagogical approaches and profound dedication to education continue to inspire educators worldwide.
Historical Trajectory
From Foundation to Global Expansion
Founded in Reims, France, the Institute was formally recognized by the Pope in 1725, six years after La Salle's death. Despite a dissolution during the French Revolution, it was reinstated by Napoleon and subsequently spread across Europe, Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Australia, establishing a vast network of educational institutions.
Formal Recognition and Patronage
The Institute received papal approval in 1725. La Salle's canonization in 1900 and his designation as the patron of educators by Pope Pius XII further solidified the Institute's standing and mission within the Catholic Church.
The Order's Structure
Vows and Governance
As religious, members take the traditional vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. The Institute's central administration is based in Rome, Italy, and is led by the Superior General and his councillors. The order is organized into five global regions: North America (RELAN), Asia/Oceania (PARC), Europe/Mediterranean (RELEM), Africa (RELAF), and Latin America (RELAL).
Recognition and Awards
The De La Salle Brothers have been recognized for their contributions to literacy and education. In 1990, UNESCO awarded the Noma Literacy Prize to Lasallian Institutions, acknowledging their significant impact on global literacy efforts.
Core Mission and Principles
Educational Apostolate
The Institute's guiding principle is "to provide a human and Christian education... especially [to] the poor." This commitment drives their educational activities worldwide, focusing on holistic development and accessibility for all students.
Guiding Principles
The key principles underpinning the Lasallian mission are: faith in the presence of God, concern for the poor and social justice, inclusive community, respect for all people, and a commitment to quality education. These values shape the ethos of Lasallian institutions globally.
Educational Network
Worldwide Presence
The De La Salle Brothers operate an extensive network of educational institutions across the globe. As of December 2023, this network includes 1,154 centers in 78 countries, serving over 1.16 million students. This vast reach underscores their dedication to educational access.
Diverse Institutions
Lasallian educational institutions span various levels, from primary schools to universities. Examples include Bethlehem University in Palestine, Manhattan University and La Salle University in the US, and numerous others worldwide, reflecting the diversity and breadth of their educational commitment.
Key Figures
Leadership Succession
The Institute has been guided by a succession of Superiors General since its inception. The list below details these leaders, reflecting the continuity and evolution of the Institute's governance.
Canonized and Venerated
The Church recognizes the sanctity of several individuals associated with the Lasallian mission:
Challenges and Other Activities
Child Sexual Abuse Allegations
Regrettably, the Institute has faced serious allegations and admissions concerning child sexual abuse within some of its institutions across various countries. Inquiries have been conducted, and the order has issued apologies for the pain caused by members who acted contrary to their vocation. The Institute acknowledges these painful incidents and continues to address the ongoing impact.
Investment and Enterprise
The Institute has engaged in financial and commercial activities to support its mission. Christian Brothers Investment Services (CBIS), established in 1981, provides socially responsible investing services for Catholic organizations. Historically, the Brothers also operated Mont La Salle Vineyards in California, producing wine and brandy, with proceeds supporting their educational programs.
Environmental Advocacy
Brother Paul McAuley, an English Lasallian Brother, was recognized for his advocacy for indigenous tribes and the Amazon rainforest. His work highlighted the intersection of faith, social justice, and environmental protection, though it also led to conflict with governmental and corporate interests in Peru.
Programmatic Changes
The Lasallian Volunteers program, which provided lay people with opportunities for teaching and engagement in Lasallian activities, concluded its operations on June 30, 2022, after 32 years of service.
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References
References
- Lasalians, De La Salle Brothers
- C. Moe, "Hardly a soft landing: the first Australian foundation of the De La Salle Brothers â Armidale 1906", Journal of the Australian Catholic Historical Society vol 28 (2007), pp. 67â73.
- TimesUnion.com: La Salle alumnus alleges sex abuse, 22 September 2014 Troy, New York
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding religious orders, education, or historical matters. Always refer to official documentation and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.