Lasallian Traditions

Our History

When we speak today of St. John Baptist de La Salle and Lasallian Traditions, we begin with the history of our Lasallian schools. Since 1680 educational institutions in more than 80 countries have been influenced by the vision and innovative spirit of Saint John Baptist de La Salle, the Founder of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools (known today as the De La Salle Christian Brothers) and the patron saint of teachers. De La Salle transformed education by forming a community of educators with whom he developed a spirituality of teaching and learning, to give a human and Christian education to young people, especially the poor.

Lasallian Traditions and Education center on Catholic values and personal relationships, emphasizing academic excellence, faith formation, inclusion, respect for the individual, service and social justice. A Lasallian Education strives to enrich each student’s cultural, intellectual, physical, social and spiritual development.

Today, the Lasallian Community, the ongoing home of De La Salle’s Lasallian Traditions and spirit, is alive and functioning in more than 1,000 educational institutions around the world. The De La Salle Christian Brothers, along with 100,000 Lasallian lay colleagues, serve more than 1,000,000 students and their families worldwide. Here in the United States, there are more than 100 Lasallian educational institutions. Christian Brothers University is one of the six Lasallian colleges and universities in the United States.

The De La Salle Christian Brothers and their Lasallian Partners continue to respond to students through advancements in teaching, technology and scholarship. In Lasallian communities, faculty and staff educate minds, touch hearts and cultivate leadership to prepare students for life, work, and service to society and the Church.

The Lasallian Core Principles

Concern for the Poor and Social Justice

We are in solidarity with the poor and advocate for those suffering from injustices.

Faith in the Presence of God

We believe in the living presence of God in our students, our community and our world.

Quality Education

We engage in quality education together as students, staff and faculty by thinking critically and examining our world in light of faith.

Respect for all Persons

We honor and respect the dignity of all individuals.

Inclusive Community

We celebrate diversity and welcome all members of our community.

Tradition

Through your association with CBU, you become part of the global mission of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, the largest Roman Catholic order dedicated to teaching. The Lasallian Traditions and the educational mission provide transformative experiences that are innovative and holistic.