Growth of the Lasallian Mission

The Lasallian Brothers, also known as the Brothers of the Christian Schools, officially began on June 24, 1680, when Saint John Baptist de La Salle founded the first community of teachers dedicated to the education of poor children in Reims, France. This date marks the establishment of a significant educational movement that emphasized the importance of accessible education and the holistic development of students, laying the groundwork for the modern Lasallian educational philosophy and practices that continue to thrive globally today.

During the severe famine in France from 1683 to 1684, De La Salle demonstrated his commitment to social justice and compassion by resigning his canonry, a position of privilege, and dedicating his wealth to help those suffering from poverty and hunger. This act not only reflected his deep faith and dedication to the welfare of the less fortunate but also set a powerful example for his followers and the broader community, emphasizing the importance of service and sacrifice in times of crisis.

De La Salle and his brothers took the Heroic Vow as a commitment to serve God and dedicate their lives to the education of young people, particularly the poor. This vow represented their resolve to live a life of exceptional dedication and sacrifice for their mission, embodying the spirit of selflessness and commitment that characterized the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. It emphasized their determination to pursue holiness and inspire others through their educational efforts.

The Rule on Language aimed to promote accessibility in education by prohibiting the use of Latin, which was not widely understood by the general population. Instead, vernacular languages, which are the native languages spoken by the people in a particular region, were encouraged for teaching and studying. This shift allowed a broader audience to engage with educational materials, fostering literacy and learning in a more inclusive manner. By using vernacular languages, knowledge became more accessible and relevant to everyday life.

Bishop Jeremiah Harty was instrumental in the establishment of the Lasallian educational system in the Philippines. Recognizing the need for quality education and the growth of Catholic schools, he reached out to the De La Salle Brothers to bring their expertise to the region. His vision and commitment to improving education for Filipino youth led to the successful arrival of the Lasallian Brothers, who played a significant role in shaping the educational landscape in the country.

De La Salle College likely experienced an increase in enrollment shortly after its opening due to growing interest in education and the school's reputation. By July 10, 1911, the college may have attracted additional students, reaching a total of 175. This figure reflects a reasonable growth rate for a newly established institution as it began to establish itself in the community and attract more families seeking quality education for their children.

De La Salle Brothers are not priests; they are members of a religious institute focused on education, specifically dedicated to teaching and serving in schools. Founded by St. John Baptist de La Salle, their mission emphasizes providing quality education to the poor and marginalized. While they are religious men, their role is primarily as educators rather than as priests who perform sacraments or lead liturgical functions. Thus, the statement inaccurately categorizes them as priests.