It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing into eternal glory of our beloved Brother Ghebretinsae Ghebrecristos, FSC. Brother Ghebretinsae was called to his eternal rest at approximately 7:00 PM on Friday, October 16, 2026. Brother Ghebretinsae was born on April 17, 1933, in Wesbensirekhu, Eritrea. He began his postulancy in 1955 in Naples, Italy, and pronounced his Perpetual Vows in 1963 in Turin, Italy.
A Wholehearted Lasallian and Spiritual Pillar
A wholehearted, dedicated, and deeply spiritual Lasallian, Brother Ghebretinsae embodied the essence of his vocation. He proudly proclaimed his love for his calling, often remarking:
"If I were to be born again, I would be born as a De La Salle Brother."
Brother Ghebretinsae was a model Brother who anchored his life in deep, quiet prayer, often spending hours in communion with God long before others joined him. Echoing the words of the Founder, Saint John Baptist de La Salle, he frequently reminded his community that a Brother who does not pray should consider himself a dead member. A constant advocate for spiritual integrity, he firmly believed in complete dedication to religious life, teaching that one should either be fully committed or step aside, rather than live a half-hearted lifestyle. While he never kept grudges, he never shied away from lovingly challenging his Brothers if he felt they were drifting from their spiritual path.
Distinguished Leadership, Educational Vision, and Lifelong Mentorship
Brother Ghebretinsae served the Institute with remarkable distinction across many leadership capacities, including as President of the Delegation of Eritrea/Ethiopia and as Community Director of various communities throughout the region.
As a master formator, his guiding hand touched every stage of religious formation—from the juniorate, postulancy, and novitiate through to the scholasticate—across communities in Keren, Dekemhare, and Dire Dawa. He was a humorous, creative preacher and a revered mentor of religious life, inspiring both his fellow Brothers and many outside the Institute.
As Director and Mentor at St. Joseph’s School in Keren, Eritrea, he played an instrumental role in shaping the education, faith, and character of local youth. In addition, Brother Ghebretinsae was one of the key pioneers in establishing the Hagaz Agro-Technical School, leaving a lasting impact on practical and vocational education in the region. Jovial, loving, and deeply cherished by young people, he approached every duty with boundless zeal.
Extending his mission globally, he served as a vital link for the Eritrean diaspora by helping launch the La Salle Saint Joseph School Association during his visits across Europe and the USA—a key initiative that channeled critical resources back home to sustain the Brothers' mission.
A Legacy of Faith and Independence
Brother Ghebretinsae remained remarkably self-dependent until the very last minutes of his earthly life, leaving behind a profound legacy of executive leadership, deep faith, and joyful commitment.
Brother Ghebretinsae was laid to rest on October 18, 2026, in Keren, Eritrea.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
Live Jesus in our Hearts-Forever
