Vocations
Who We Are
The Brothers of the Christian Schools began making a difference in people's lives over 320 years ago. They were founded by St. John Baptist de La Salle, a French priest, who saw the need for a group of lay men who would dedicate their lives to the ministry of Christian education, especially for the poor. The Brothers continue to change lives and make a difference. Today, over 6,000 Brothers conduct schools in 84 countries. In the Baltimore District, the Christian Brothers sponsor a middle school for at-risk, primarily Latino boys in Camden, NJ; they conduct La Salle University in Philadelphia; and they educate high school students in Baltimore, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Jersey City, Cumberland, MD and Washington, D.C. In addition, through the St. Gabriel's System in Philadelphia, the Brothers provide educational and social services for delinquent youth, 10 to 18 years of age.
A Consecrated Life
The Christian Brothers dedicate their lives to God through vows of poverty, chastity, obedience, community life and educational service to the poor. The Brothers commit themselves to the ministry of education and do not seek ordination. They affirm their commitment to education through their vows, daily prayers, teaching, counseling, and community life.
Faith and Zeal
St. John Baptist de La Salle recognized that providing education was a means of both spreading the Gospel and improving the lives and opportunities of young people. His spirit of Faith and Zeal is still the spirit of the religious community he founded. The Brothers work to develop new and creative ways of meeting the changing needs of the poor and marginalized in society.
The ministry of the Brothers goes beyond the school day. Brothers develop strong, fraternal connections with their students and colleagues. De La Salle told the Brothers that their "greatest miracle" is to touch hearts. Often that "miracle" happens outside of the classroom, by a few words of support, counsel or encouragement.
A Community
The Brothers live together, enjoying the benefits of working, praying and recreating with one another. Each community is made up of a diverse group of men dedicated to education. Community life is not a substitute for marriage or family, but it is a source of strength and support for each Brother. Family, friends, students, colleagues and those seeking to learn more about their vocation are welcomed into the Brothers community.
Think About It
The Brothers' vocation, like their work with youth, is challenging but rewarding. Through a flexible program, the Brothers help interested young men to discern their own vocation.
Aspirancy
The Aspirancy Program is designed to help the individual know himself better, deepen his relationship with God, and learn more about the Brother' vocation. Participation in the program primarily involves meeting monthly with a Brother and attending two retreats each year with other Aspirants; it does not imply any commitment to becoming a Brother.
Scholastic Residency
After participating in Aspirancy, the candidate may apply to live in the formation community, where he annually promises to observe the Brothers' Rule and prepare himself for community life and the ministry of Christian education. Now called "Brother," he pursues a program of studies determined by his educational background and experience.
Apostolic Residency
Following one or two years of Scholastic Residency, the candidate moves to a Brothers' community associated with a Lasallian school. Called "Brother" and being a Brother to his students, he is fully engaged in the Lasallian educational ministry, usually for two years.
Novitiate
If recommended by this Brothers, the student Brother may apply for the novitiate. This twelve-month program is designed to help the novice grow even closer to God while learning more about the Lasallian vocation, the vows, and other topics related to religious life. Toward the end of the Novitiate, the Brother may request permission to make First Vows, which are renewed annually until Final Vows.
For more information on The Brothers vocation program contact:
Director of Vocation Ministry
6633 Ardleigh Street
Philadelphia, PA 19119-3824
215-844-5333
Email: hofmann@FSCbaltimore.org