Identity and Mission
De La Salle College is a Catholic School for boys, in the Lasallian Tradition.
As a College community, we stand firmly within a Christian interpretation of life and faith. We respect the religious affiliation of all members of the community and provide every opportunity for students to explore and develop their Christian faith.
To touch the hearts of the young and to inspire them with the Christian spirit is the greatest miracle you can perform, and it is the one God asks of you; it is the purpose of your work with the young
St John Baptist de La Salle
So spoke the Founder and patron saint of all educators, St John Baptist de La Salle, to his Brothers on the vital importance that the College places on encouraging its students to seek a relationship with Christ. It is a central element of our students’ maturing towards manhood.
At De La Salle College, students are challenged to think about what it means to be ‘Lasallian’ by attending to the Five Core Lasallian Principles and explore their Christian understanding and commitment through:
- Overseas Immersion Opportunities
- Social Justice Initiatives
- College Prayer Life
- Charitable Donations/drives
- Ministry and Service
- College Liturgies
- College Masses
- House Morning Prayer Liturgies
- Parish Community Masses
- Overnight Retreats
- Reflection Days
- Seminar Days
- Meditation
- Curriculum
The Deputy Principal – Identity and Mission is responsible for all aspects of faith life within the College.
The Changing Landscape for Catholic Colleges
Recent statements by Australian Catholic Bishops remind us of the importance of the Catholic ethos of a College such as De La Salle. In recent years, fewer of our students come from families in close contact with their local parish. Whereas once it could be assumed that education in the Christian tradition grew out of a strong partnership of parents with the parish, the reality now is often quite different.
As a result, attending De La Salle College is, for many students, their prime exposure to the Catholic faith. It will be their principal time of formal contact with Christian teaching, and it is hoped that many may then make a stronger parish connection and are inspired to nurture their faith.
Modern students are also more exposed than ever to the world around them. This can be a challenge at times, but it motivates our educators to seek creative ways of securing our students’ interest in matters of Christian faith and Lasallian spirituality.