Born in France in 1651, his father was a noble and a successful wine merchant. 

Deeply faithful from a young age, John received tonsure when he was eleven and at the age of just sixteen was named Canon of Reims Cathedral. From there he began his journey into the priesthood, was ordained at 27 and then, two years later, received his doctorate in Theology. 

While working with The Sisters of The Child Jesus to teach poor girls, he met Mr. Adrian Nyel who convinced John to work with him on starting a school for poor boys. 

Initially, he did not like the work, but soon The Lord showed him how desperate the poor boys were who, in his words, seemed “so far from salvation in this world and the next.” 

With the help of Mr. Nyel, and an endowment, John founded the Institute of the Brothers of The Christian Schools, dedicated to educating the boys of poor families and leading them to a life of faith and service to others. 

Though he was successful, it was not easy and there was great resentment which caused him much suffering. Plus, Jansenism was a constant impediment as he tried to instill a love of the Eucharist among his students. 

He died on this day in 1719.

St. John Baptiste de la Salle, please pray for us.