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Saintly Step in the Big Debate: The Tale of Saint John Baptist De La Salle

Once upon a time in the bustling town of Reims, young John played with dreams. He wore robes fit for a pope, but in his hand—a telescope! With a twinkle in his eye, he gazed at stars that lit up the sky. 'Oh, what wonders I can spy!' he'd sing, dreaming of a future with a heartfelt ring.

A young boy in a priestly robe holding a telescope, gazing at the starry night sky with excitement.

John's family was big and jolly, filling their home with warmth and folly. But one day the house grew sad, for loss took away what they once had. John held strong, with heart so brave, finding solace in faith's soft wave.

A large family gathered in a cozy home, gradually casting solemn expressions, consoled by their faith.

Off he went, into the world, where schools were unfurl'd. With books and verses, he sought knowledge, like a squirrel seeking precious forage!

An enthusiastic young A young boy wearing priestly robes, with bright eyes and holding a telescope walking through a bustling town, holding books, and learning from various places.

In the grand city of Paris, the air was abuzz with a daring chorus. 'Schools for the poor and a bold new path!' Adrien Nyel proclaimed with a laugh.

A lively Parisian street scene with A lively man with a jovial expression discussing plans in a vibrant city animatedly speaking to A young boy wearing priestly robes, with bright eyes and holding a telescope amidst a crowd.

Together they plotted with plans precise, to build schools with a fresh, sweet slice! Free for the young and keen, with ideas bright and gleam.

A young boy wearing priestly robes, with bright eyes and holding a telescope and Adrien huddled over a table filled with blueprints, surrounded by children eagerly listening.

But oh, the challenges did grow like weeds! The other schools grumbled with stubborn creeds. John faced the storm with a heart of grace, meeting each test with a smiling face.

A determined A young boy wearing priestly robes, with bright eyes and holding a telescope standing strong amidst a chaotic scene of opposition from traditional school representatives.

As the rumble grew louder — Boom, Bang, Slam! — unity twisted like a sturdy ram. With a vow most heroic, the Brothers stood firm, like an unmoving oak.

A young boy wearing priestly robes, with bright eyes and holding a telescope and his A group of determined men with humble clothes, united with a strong stance standing united, forming a barrier against swirling chaos depicted through onomatopoeic sounds.

One step, one school, then another! Across France, they'd cheer ‘Thank you, dear brother!’ Like bubbles rising in a fizzy delight, their mission spread like a kite in flight.

A map of France with popping icons of schools appearing, each joined by a ribbon trailing from a kite.

Through Rome the echoes began to tremor, ‘Education for all!’ shouted with tremor. The world was a stage, and their journey, a play, each act brighter than the prior day.

Images of educational reforms catching on across Rome, symbolized by floating theater masks and scripts.

Saint John's story, bright as gold, sang of courage bold. With every challenge met with delight, he taught that learning is a wondrous light.

A young boy wearing priestly robes, with bright eyes and holding a telescope depicted as a saintly figure illuminated by a golden light, with happy children learning around him.

And so, dear child, as you read and play, remember the light of this special day. For Saint John’s lesson, near and far, shines radiant as a star.

A child reading the story with sparkles and light transforming into a bright star overhead.

The end or start, it's all up to you. With stories, both old and new, make your dreams come true.

A symbolic scene showing a child imagining their dreams, represented as glowing paths branching out.

Reflection Questions

  • How did John cope with the loss of his family, and what can we learn from his resilience?
  • Why was working together with Adrien Nyel important for John’s dream to establish schools?
  • What strategies did John use to overcome the challenges he faced from traditional schools?

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