April 7th - ST. JOHN BAPTIST DE LA SALLE By: Rona Roy

Today’s Saint of the Day is Saint John Baptist de la Salle. He was born on April 30, 1651, in Reims, France and was the eldest of ten children. In 1678, John was ordained a priest and devoted himself to the education of the poor. In those days, only wealthy children could afford an education. However, a friend convinced John that he should establish schools for poor children in the area. He established many charity schools in Reims, including the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. In these schools, John devoted himself to teaching children about Christ and how to live their Christian faith in their daily lives. Additionally, he contributed significantly to the education field through his writings and new teaching methodology. Saint John Baptist de la Salle was canonized by Pope Pius XII in 1950 and is the patron of teachers.

INTERCESSORY PRAYER
God, help us through the intercession of St. John Baptist de la Salle to live our Christian faith in our daily life. Help guide all the teachers to devote themselves to helping your children grow in their faith and devotion.  Amen.