Abstract
Born in the 17th century France, a Catholic Priest, Founder of the Institute of the Brothers of Christian Schools and declared Universal Patron of Teachers in 1950, John Baptist de la Salle is a prolific writer. He had written more than 200 manuscripts and today’s Lasallian Family has published several of the Saint’s spiritual writings. Most popular are the Meditations for the Time of Retreat, Meditations on Sundays and Feasts, Conduct of Christian Schools, Memoir of the Beginnings to name a few. Originally written in French, the writings had been translated into different languages that reach the farthest of Lasallian communities across the globe. It could be deduced that such a reservoir of spirituality and depth of faith of St. La Salle transcend nations and generations. This paper presents a reflection on and an analysis of the thoughts of Saint John Baptist de La Salle as revealed in his collection of writings. Through a rigorous survey and careful analysis of the compendium, the researcher identifies references to environmental consciousness, care for the earth, integrity of creation and themes that point to the Saint’s ecological values. Inasmuch as Lasallians today are challenged to continuously mature in faith, zeal for service and communion in mission, it is paramount that they likewise grow in deeper consciousness of what is happening to Mother Earth and embrace an authentic ecological conversion in juxtaposition with an unwavering commitment to action. Following the footsteps of the Founder, every Lasallian must advocate justice, peace and integrity of creation.
Presenters
Myra PatambangProfessor, Religious Education, De La Salle Medical And Health Sciences Institute, Cavite, Philippines
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Ecological Values, Lasallian Spirituality, Justice, Peace, Integrity of Creation
