The Christian Brothers of the Midwest
With 175+ years of commitment to Youth and Education the Mission is as important today as it was when it all begin in Reims, France.
About the Christian Brothers of the Midwest
What is the Midwest District?
The Christian Brothers of the Midwest District form a vital part of the Lasallian Region of North America, also known as RELAN. This region encompasses Lasallian ministries across the United States and Canada, with the Midwest District covering seven states. This district includes a diverse array of educational and retreat centers: 3 universities, 12 high schools, 3 middle schools, 5 retreat and educational centers, one publishing house, and the Provincialate office. The mission is carried out by 92 Brothers and hundreds of their lay partners, all dedicated to furthering the Christian Brothers' mission.
Historical Background and Unification
The history of what is now the Midwest District traces back to its origins as the St. Louis District. This expansive district originally spanned from Minnesota to Texas and from Ohio to Nebraska, encompassing nearly 1,000 Brothers. Given the vast geographic area and the increasing complexity of managing such a large district, it became necessary to divide the St. Louis District into three smaller districts: Chicago, St. Louis, and Winona.
As time passed, the number of Brothers decreased while the number of dedicated Lasallian Partners grew. This shift indicated a need for a new organizational structure to better manage the ministries and support the mission. Following a lengthy and thoughtful discernment process, the three districts united in 1995, forming the Midwest District. This unification aimed to streamline operations, foster collaboration, and enhance the impact of their educational and service endeavors.
Midwest District at a Glance
Impact and Outreach
Today, the Christian Brothers of the Midwest District are deeply committed to the Lasallian values of faith, service, and community. Their educational institutions and retreat centers serve as beacons of learning and spiritual growth, especially for the young and the poor. By fostering inclusive and supportive environments, students and participants thrive both academically and personally. The Midwest District's impact extends beyond the classroom through a publishing house and research institute. The publishing house contributes to the wider dissemination of Lasallian educational materials, ensuring that the values and teachings of the Christian Brothers reach a broader audience. Our Lasallian Educational Research is dedicated to furthering knowledge and praxis to better serve those entrusted to our care.Finally, the collaboration between Brothers and lay partners showcases the resilience and versatility of the Lasallian mission in today's society. Through diverse partnerships, the Brothers leverage a broad network to advance their ongoing mission of creating a positive impact in the world.
Meet a Brother
We call Brother Charles, Chuck. In Chuck we have a Nebraska boy from small town Elgin who has become a world traveler. Brother Charles Gregor spent years teaching in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Kansas City, Miss
Brother Larry has served many of our schools with great energy, creativity and has always been a source of joy. He is totally attentive to the needs of his faculty and staff.
Frank served the Midwest District when it was first formed in 1995 as Auxiliary Visitor and later as the Brothers' Visitor. Brother Francis Carr, Visitor, served the District during difficult times...
Brother’s Vocation
De La Salle Christian Brothers dedicate their lives to living out the Gospel and their order's charism. Our young men work to deepen their commitment to community life and a calling in education. Discover the joy, purpose, and opportunities of following a Brother's vocation.
Affiliated Fratres Scholarum Christianarum (AFSC)
The Christian Brothers foster deep, long-term relationships with individuals including students, parents, staff, clergy, religious members, and others who support their mission. Over time, some of these relationships grow so strong that the Brothers wish to officially recognize the commitment and connection through a special honor called Affiliation. This recognition is reserved for individuals or couples who have significantly contributed to the Lasallian mission through their work, support, and shared lives with the Brothers.
The Affiliation Process
When a person or couple becomes closely tied to the Brothers, the local community may petition the District Council to grant them the honor of Affiliation. If approved, the petition is sent to the Superior General and his Council for final consideration. Once affirmed, a ceremony is held within the local community, where the newly affiliated individual or couple receives a diploma of Affiliation, a crucifix, a six-decade rosary, a copy of the Rule, and a New Testament. They may now append the letters AFSC (Affiliated Fratres Scholarum Christianarum) to their name, symbolizing their formal connection to the Christian Brothers.
Continuing the Lasallian Legacy
Affiliates remain spiritually connected to the Brothers and are included in daily community prayers. The honor of Affiliation not only solidifies a special relationship, but also serves as a testament to the person’s dedication to the values of the Lasallian mission of education, service, and faith. Affiliates become vital partners in advancing the mission, ensuring its impact endures for future generations.
AFSC Book of Remembrance
Our AFSC community is comprised of individuals known for their exceptional service to the Lasallian mission. Reflect on their lasting contributions in the AFSC Book of Remembrance.
