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Sixth Week of Lent - Year A
About St. Jean de Brebeuf
About St. Jean de Brebeuf
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St. Jean de Brebeuf, the patron of our school, was a Jesuit priest born in France in 1593 who devoted his life to missionary work in Canada. He traveled to the region near present-day Midland, Ontario, where he lived and worked among the Wendat people. Because of his strong physical presence and tireless service, they called him Echon, meaning “the one who carries burdens.”
More than his physical strength, Brebeuf was known for his deep faith and spiritual courage. Living in a culture very different from his own, he remained firmly committed to God and to the people he served. His life reflected perseverance, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to his mission.
In 1649, St. Jean de Brebeuf was martyred for his faith. His courage and steadfast belief left a lasting impression on those who witnessed his life and death. Today, his legacy continues to inspire the Brebeuf community to live with faith, strength, and a commitment to serving others.
History of Brebeuf College School
History of Brebeuf College School
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Brebeuf College School opened in Toronto in 1963 and was named in honour of St. Jean de Brebeuf, whose life and values were chosen as a model for the school community. From its founding, Brebeuf has emphasized faith, courage, dedication, and service as central to its identity.
Established by the Jesuits of Upper Canada, the school’s first principal was Father Robert Meagher, S.J., and its early staff included Jesuit priests, a Jesuit brother, and lay educators. Brebeuf welcomed its first 100 students in Grades 9 and 10, received its official blessing in 1964, and celebrated its first graduating class in 1967.
In 1984, responsibility for the school was transferred to the Presentation Brothers, a religious congregation dedicated to the Christian education and formation of youth. Under their leadership, Brebeuf continued its mission of Catholic education for nearly four decades.
In 2002, plans were approved for a new state-of-the-art facility on the original campus, with staff and students returning in 2004. In 2022, following the withdrawal of the Presentation Brothers, Brebeuf entered into an endorsement agreement with the Jesuits of Canada, reaffirming its identity as a Jesuit school.
Our Crest and Motto
Our Crest and Motto
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The Brebeuf Crest was designed by Father Robert Meagher, S.J., the school’s founding principal, and represents the rich history and heritage of Brebeuf College School.
The black bull is taken from the family coat of arms of St. Jean de Brebeuf.
The upper left section features the Cross of St. George and maple leaves, drawn from the coat of arms of the Province of Ontario.
At the top centre is the blazing sun, the emblem of the Society of Jesus, which founded the school and to which St. Jean de Brebeuf belonged. The flames symbolize the infinite love of Christ, while the small cross represents the height of that love. The Greek letters IHS are the first three letters of Jesus’ name.
The upper right section shows angel wings behind a large cross, representing St. Michael, the patron saint of the Archdiocese of Toronto. The five smaller crosses symbolize the five Canadian Jesuit Martyrs: Jean de Brebeuf, Gabriel Lalemant, Antoine Daniel, Charles Garnier, and Noël Chabanel.
The Latin motto Studio Gradum Faciant, meaning “To win merit through study,” highlights the school’s strong commitment to academic excellence.
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