George Van Grieken, FSC, Ph.D.
Abstract
St. John Baptist de La Salle, founder of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, deeply integrated prayer into his life and educational mission. His seminary training in Paris reinforced the role of prayer, which directed his work in educating the poor. De La Salle emphasized the importance of prayer, community life, and personal vocation, forming devout and competent teachers. His writings, including letters and meditations, reflect how prayer infused his identity and pedagogy, intertwining with faith, zeal, and community. De La Salle’s innovative synthesis of French spirituality and teaching led to a unique Lasallian spirituality, characterized by a spirit of faith and zeal for mission. This integration of daily work and prayer was vital for the Brothers, making prayer an intimate part of their ministry. Emphasizing communal life, De La Salle highlighted the importance of mutual support in their educational mission. His insights on prayer in teaching remain relevant today, advocating for a dynamic relationship with God in education.
Full Text
The Role of Prayer in Lasallian Pedagogy
Keywords
Prayer, Lasallian spirituality, Lasallian pedagogy
About the Author
Brother George Van Grieken is a De La Salle Christian Brother who recently served as the Secretary-Coordinator of the Lasallian Research and Resources Service at the Casa Generalizia in Rome and is the Coordinator of the Lasallian Resource Center [www.lasallianresources.org]. A graduate of Saint Mary’s College of California (BA and MA) and of Boston College (Ph.D.), he has worked as a classroom teacher and in Lasallian formation, vocation ministry, and school leadership, including two years as President and CEO of St. Joseph’s Institution International School in Singapore. His writings and workshops focus on Lasallian spirituality and formation, especially their application and integration in today’s society and educational contexts.
ISSN: 2151-2515
© Christian Brothers Conference 2023.