St. Bonaventure has a saying that "the only educators worthy of the name are those who can instil in the hearts of their pupils the vision of beauty, the light of truth and the practice of virtue." It is a saying which has particular resonance for the present times when what is called education cuts quite across the principles of true morality and, having no reference to God or religion, does only serious harm. That is why the Church holds in special esteem and affection all who have the duty of educating children, since the safeguard and spread of the Christian faith so much depends on them.

John Baptist de La Salle, a man of great holiness and natural gifts, not only educated young people himself but continues to do so through the excellent principles and practices he established in the Society he founded. Not only that but, in order to prepare teachers for so important a mission in remote rural districts, he established training colleges. Teacher training colleges are now to be found everywhere, but their origin must be attributed to De La Salle.
This illustrious educational pioneer had such a high regard for the work of teaching that he would not allow his Brothers to become priests lest they be drawn away from their principal mission. At the same time he was convinced that their calling could lead them to authentic holiness.

Hence, in order that teachers and student teachers may have a role model to imitate, the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools has, through its Postulator General, submitted a petition to us. The object of their petition is that the fiftieth anniversary of the canonization, by our revered predecessor, Leo XIII, of St. John Baptist de La Salle be marked by the proclamation of this Saint as heavenly patron of all teachers, men and women alike, clerical as well as lay, actually engaged in, or preparing for, the profession.

We are happy to grant them their wish, convinced, as we are, that the education of the young is a matter of the first importance and wishing that those to whom the mission of teaching has been entrusted, or who are preparing to undertake that mission, should have a further strong incentive to fulfill their noble calling in accordance with the principles of faith.

Accordingly, we have consulted our Venerable Brother, Clemente Micara, Cardinal of the holy Roman Church, Bishop of Velletri and Prefect of the Sacred Congregation of Rites. Having then carefully considered the matter, we now, with sure knowledge and due deliberation, and in the exercise of our full apostolic authority, constitute and proclaim, by this Brief and for all time, St. John Baptist de La Salle, Confessor, principal patron before God, of all teachers of youth, and we accord him all liturgical honours and privileges appropriate to that title, irrespective of all contrary considerations.

Given at Rome, from St. Peter's, and sealed with the Fisherman's ring, this 15th day of May, feast of St. John Baptist de La Salle, in the twelfth year of our pontificate.