I begin by greeting you in the name of the De La Salle community: students, parents, staff, alumni and benefactors. The history of this school, which finds its origins with the arrival of the Brothers of the Christian Schools in 1851, is part of a world-wide movement inspired by the life and work of St. John Baptist de La Salle. He responded to the needs of his time in 17th Century France by founding a religious community of teaching Brothers and providing a Christian education mostly for the sons of artisans and the poor. What he accomplished, however, was more than just open schools, he created a vision.

Throughout its long history Brothers and dedicated lay persons have worked tirelessly to continue this vision at De La Salle. A Lasallian school is centred on a life of faith. In such a school God's presence is a living and appreciated reality. It is a Christian school in the Roman Catholic tradition. St. John Baptist de La Salle was unambiguous in his teaching that the Lasallian school must remain loyal to the teaching authority of the Church.

The Christian action and community service programmes are an essential part of the education of young people attending De La Salle and assist in the fostering of charity, tolerance and a concern for the poor. In the prevailing mediocrity of our age, De La Salle like all Lasallian schools, stands boldly in pursuit of academic excellence and high expectations for its students.

Education in the Lasallian tradition is about how to make a life and not simply how to make a living. Such a view is not always easy to pursue since our culture is generally indifferent to this vision. A sound, Christian education based on good example, charity, and excellence is arguably the greatest gift that can be bestowed on the young. I invite you to become part of this vision in whatever way possible. May the Patron of All Christian Teachers, St. John Baptist de La Salle bless you and those dear to you. Live, Jesus in our hearts. Forever