LTahe sallian Great Britain and Malta Issue 1, Summer / Autumn 2009 for people inspired by St John Baptist De La Salle

Pupil Listening Out ....? Service see page 20 page 29

Br Benet RIP Kintbury Volunteers LDWP Volunteers Education at RTU page 6 page 12 page 22 page 26 Contents Front Cover

3. A Word from Brother Aidan

4. News page

6 Brother Benet Conroy, 1943 - 2009 by Br Owen Smith

8. John Baptist De La Salle - inspires many educators today by Br Nick Hutchinson

10. Being a Lasallian Educator De La Salle School, St. Helens What it means to Gery Short, San Francisco - see page 29

12. The Kintbury Volunteers 2008 / 2009 The nine volunteers reflect on their time at Kintbury Poster

14 Signum Fidei Association, Malta

16. “Teachers called to be visible angels” says De La Salle Br Nick Hutchinson reflects on these words “Take even more care of the young people entrusted to you 18. Getting to Know .... Interviews with two headteachers than if they were Frank Micallef (Stella Maris) and Brendan Wall (St. Augustine’s) the children of a king.” Photograph by Claire Arni 20. De La Salle Humanities College, Liverpool - see article on Education at RTU, India, page 26. 22. Lasallian Developing World Projects by Br John Deeney Each issue of Lasallians will contain a poster . 25. Brother Austin raises £30,000

26. Lessons in Love - Education at RTU in India by Oriole Henry Next Issue 28. Coatbridge, Our Most Northerly Community Please send all contributions for by Br Livinus the Winter / Spring issue to

29. The Pupil Listening Service - De La Salle School, St. Helens Br Michael Curran by Anna Back, Head of Modern Languages St. John’s House 7 Wokefield Way 30. De La Salle, Zapallal, Lima, Peru St. Helens by Br Mark O’Rourke WA10 4QP tel: 01744 22275 32. Bethlehem University by Br David Scarpa email: [email protected]

34. ASSEDIL Congress - St. Joseph’s College, Ipswich by Br Terry Collins Mailing List If you wish to be on the maga - 36 Being a Lasallian Today - A report on the Lent Lasallian Day zine’s mailing list, please send by Br Ben Foy your details to the above address. 37. Brother Rafael-Louis to be Beatified in Madagascar Web Edition 38. Ideas for an End of Term Service www.delasalle.org.uk

39. Publications: John Baptist De La Salle - a new CTS booklet © Lasallian Publications Lasallian Charism - Lasallian Studies No. 13 140 Banbury Road Restorative Justice Oxford, OX2 7BP A Word from Brother Aidan

The publication of this first edition of “ The Lasallian ” opens a new window on the reality of the Lasallian Network in the District of GB and Malta. As many of you are aware, for many years the District publicised its activities through a Newsletter which went through a number of “makeovers” since the formation of the single GB District in 1988. However, in the main, that Newsletter was essentially an “in-house” publication by the Brothers for the Brothers. This new publication breaks new ground in attempting to respond to the changed Lasallian reality in our District.

Today, the mission confided to the Institute by the Church in Great Britain, as in many other parts of the world, is almost completely in the hands of dedicated Lasallian partners. As the late Superior General, Bro. John Johnston, never tired of affirming, a crucial consequence of this profound change was the transition from ‘Brothers’ Schools’ to ‘Lasallian Schools’ . This new publication therefore reflects a complementary movement from a specifically Brothers’ publication to one that addresses the whole Lasallian Network in Britain and Malta.

Hopefully, the commitment, creativity and dynamism clearly evident in the many Lasallian centres throughout the District will be reflected in the new publication as it gradually takes shape over the coming months. It offers an opportunity both to celebrate good practice and support those actively involved in the wonderful, if challenging, ministry of “touching hearts” which, as our Founder tells the Lasallian educator in his meditation for the feast of St. Peter, is “... the greatest miracle you could perform and the one God asks of you, for this is the purpose of your work” .

I am very grateful to Brother Michael and his team for taking on the publi - cation of the magazine but all of us are aware that the long-term success of a venture such as this is dependent on the collaboration of many in the network. Accordingly, I hope that all our centres will respond positively to the invitation to contribute to future editions so as to ensure that we have a publication which worthily reflects the Lasallian reality in Britain & Malta.

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 3 News page

T he Dist rence rict Confe Sec Cou nual tor ncil ers’ An Cou me teach y 2009 nci etin Head anuar in M g wi sallian ury - J alta th th La t Kintb , Ma e M a rch alta 2009

De La Salle School, Liverpool, celebrate Founder’s Day. The final hymn of the Mass was signed by a group of students

Lasallian Leadership Course

The Lasallian Leadership Course, based on the Aus - tralian on-line programme, began this year. The two year course is a multi-media programme of four units, tutored by Brothers Ben Foy and John Deeney. During the course, which is only for experienced teachers and Lasallian leaders, students reflect upon different aspects of Lasallian ethos and pedagogy. Much of the work in - volves collaboration with pupils and staff in the students’ own schools and a sharing of their insights with the other students on the course.

People wishing to folow this course should contact Brother Ben: [email protected]

4 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 Potential

Take my little twig and grow a tree through me; my single snowdrop can become a grove, my sentence blossom to a book. Transform my single string into a cello. Brother Se an being pre That tiny note I try to sing: a leav sented with ing gift by t may it become a 4-part choir. Joh he staff of S n’s House, t. My scrape of bow you make a symphony. St. Helens. now beco He has That single dot of paint: me a memb LAMB er of the transform into a masterpiece. Communit y in Bristol. The blob of clay: mould to a stately pot.

Take my candle, start a lighthouse, take my torch and light a city, take my e-mail: start a network, take my smile and give a million hugs.

But in my heart I know unless it's You I am condemned to finger paint, to pat cold clay, and plink upon the keys. Give me a chord or two for in that chord the heart will show: not mine, but Yours.

St. Josep h’s Colle Spring T ge, Beula Br Benet Conroy erm ski t h Hill rip to Ton ale, Italy 1943 - 2009

The above poem, written by Benet, was read at his funeral on 29 April 2009.

See obituary on page 6

Signum F idei Asso meeting ciation, with Bro Malta, ther Aida n, Visitor

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 5 Brother Benet Conroy 1943 - 2009

A tribute given at Brother Benet’s funeral by Brother Owen (abridged)

What Benet remembered most about his 3-classroom Northum - brian primary school was that there was a vegetable garden where stu - dents were encouraged to grow all kinds of things. In years to come Benet would spend many happy hours gardening and, in his latter days, he still tended an impressive collection of bonsai trees.

Benet began his teaching ministry development, for his own sanity in Ipswich in September 1965, and in the interests of students teaching English and RE and from 11 to 18. He loved working in Games. Before the end of that first the garden, particularly in the year he was responsible for 50 flower beds where, invariably, there Junior Boarders, and he would be would be some sunflowers. He there for 12 years. Benet was a loved birds and would spend much wonderful teacher. For him and his time on his aviary in Ipswich, students, learning was an adven - speaking with students and imitat - ture. There was an excitement in ing the calls of the various breeds. his manner which was contagious, He became a member of the St and his students were made to feel John Ambulance Brigade and significant. Benet’s dedication to helped run first-aid classes. He helped set up a Diocesan Retreat House, near Norwich, and even had a slot on a local radio station. In Southsea he joined a dramatic In 1954 Brother Dennis Robert vis - society and took the leading role in ited Benet’s school and then his ‘A Man for all Seasons ’. home. Benet would move to St. Joseph’s, Ipswich, as a boarder, to In Oxford he became involved in begin his education for joining the the parish of the Sacred Heart, Brothers. After a year there, he Blackbird Leys, in much the same moved to the Juniorate in way as he had in London. In both Bournemouth, and he spoke of his places he was involved with Cate - wonderful teachers there. Benet chetics, Confirmation Programmes, developed impressive skills in soc - Baptism Preparation Programmes, cer, cricket and rugby and also his students was unquestionable. Children’s Liturgy and Reconcilia - took up boxing, basketball and ath - Yet he always found time to en - tion Services. He wrote that: “ The letics. He was a competent fast gage in further interests and activi - people and children of the parish bowler and he made many friends ties. I think these activities were responded with wonderful generos - in playing for local leagues in Ip - important for Benet’s own personal ity and warmth. It was a sad day swich, Southsea and London.

6 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 when I moved on from Oxford and take on the leadership role in Kint - themselves available to all in an at - the people of Blackbird Leys .” bury. Benet wrote about his life titude of brotherly companionship, there: “ It is the most stimulating, helping them to discover, appreci - challenging and exciting place I ate and assimilate both human and have ever been in: not always Gospel values. The Brothers help easy, sometimes frustrating, but young people to grow as persons steeped in hope. I have met so who are called to realise more and many magnificent young people more that they are children of God .’ that I am stunned into admiration. Our aim is to give people reasons for living and hoping; they in turn give us plenty. Living in a mixed community is also challenging; life is broader and deeper than the Brothers’ Rule! Then there are the demands of the retreat pro - gramme: welcome 40 young peo - Benet was always interested in ple on Monday, get to know them photography and in later years he surprisingly well, and say goodbye pursued that interest, with remark - on Thursday, only to welcome an - able results. He produced a photo - other 40 on Thursday evening .” graphic project on the launderette in Clevedon, involving him in long Benet completed six years in Kint - For me, Benet was the selfless ser - conversations with the locals. He bury and was ready for a change. vant – whether freeing a blocked had pictures of the many aspects For a long time he had dreamt of drain or doing something more sig - of the Kintbury ministry and loca - going back to Africa – to Ghana, to nificant - responding to whatever tion. In LAMB ( Lasallian Associa - found a Lasallian school there. kind of need there was. Even dur - tion for Mission in Bristol ) he About the same time there was an ing these last two years, when he assisted in the photography depart - invitation from the already estab - was ill, he found many ways of ment at St. Brendan’s 6th Form lished LAMB Community to open a being of service. Every week he College and chose to follow the A Brothers’ Community whose role was providing us, in LAMB, with level programme one year, and would be to provide spiritual and powerpoints, prayer services, achieved 100% on his first paper. pastoral support in the four workshop plans and all kinds of ad - Catholic secondary schools in Bris - vice. To visit him in serious illness In January 1984 Benet became tol. Opportunities and requests was a tonic. He didn’t want to focus Visitor (Provincial). One of his life- were many and varied : from class - on himself but was full of interest in changing experiences was to be room input to Staff INSET to one- what was happening in our lives. one of the representatives at our to-one ministry. Benet was able to Institute International Chapter in get close to young people and Benet’s was a very public life. He Rome, and another was to be a staff, and he loved that. carried many responsibilities. He member of the first two Lasallian was handed a lot of authority and Developing World Projects in Togo, he handled it remarkably well, with West Africa. great sensitivity and respect for people. I don’t think he found it It was with great sadness that easy, but he had remarkable gifts Benet heard of the death of Brother of wisdom, understanding and of Damian Lundy in 1996. He said justice. At base he was a private that it had been a privilege to have person, I think, and he valued been able to work with Damian on times of quiet and personal reflec - the Brothers’ Leadership Team and tion. in the parish. He was especially pleased to have been able to offer support during Damian’s dialysis The full version of this tribute to times, and they had spent time to - Benet can be read at: gether just four months earlier in Throughout his lifetime Benet fol - www.delasalle.org.uk/news.htm North Wales on a very relaxing and lowed these words from the Broth - enjoyable holiday. Damian’s death ers’ Rule, and so many people are One of Benet’s poems, that was left a huge gap in Benet’s life. the better for his having done so: read at his funeral, can be found ‘The Brothers are attentive to each on page 5. Benet had followed in Damian’s of their students and especially to footsteps and became the oldest to those most in need. They make

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 7 John Baptist De La Salle inspires many educators today

Br Nick Hutchinson

John’s choices would lead to a life of dral, and he became fully one with poverty, but he was born into a the Brothers when he decided to wealthy family in Rheims, northern give away his share of the family in - France, in 1651. Whilst studying to heritance, using it to relieve famine be a priest he had to return home on among the local people. Many the death of both his parents, so as thought he would have used the to take care of his younger brothers money to place the schools on a and sisters. He was ordained a priest firmer financial footing. John knew, at the age of 26. though, that people would perceive trust being placed, not in God, but in By coincidence - or by God’s Provi - his own money and abilities. John dence, as he would come to see it - made it evident that “this Community he met a teacher who had started is founded only on God’s Provi - schools for poor boys in Rouen, who dence”. also wanted to open schools in Rheims. It became clear that, whilst this teacher (Adrian Nyel) was busy opening schools, those engaged to teach were themselves poorly edu - cated, and lacked direction in their own lives and in the ways of teach - ing. The teachers experienced little encouragement or support, and felt abandoned to their own very limited resources. John was asked to help direct them and, as time went on, he became more and more involved.

John moved into a rented house with the teachers, sharing a life of poverty with them. After many had left and others joined, some of the teachers realised that stronger bonds between themselves were needed. In 1682 they proposed to John that they form themselves into a religious commu - nity. They called themselves ‘ Broth - ers’ , reflecting their commitment to ‘The Conduct of Schools’ was written God, to each other, and to the young and revised in the light of feedback people entrusted to their care. They from those whom John observed would be Brothers of the Christian teaching in class, and it became a Schools (‘F.S.C.’ forms the abbrevia - collective book of ‘good practices’ for tion in Latin) – and they are now teachers, going through many edi - generally known as De La Salle tions in various languages over 200 Brothers. years. The aim to “try and see that the children always leave school John resigned from his influential po - pleased” reflected an invitational ap - sition as a canon of Rheims Cathe - proach to teaching that promoted

8 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 students’ personal responsibility. At a inspirational books for teachers, and time when respect shown to individu - advocated that a library should be at als was otherwise dependent on the disposal of students. He aban - wealth and status, these schools doned the long-standing practice of were characterised by mutual re - teaching members of a class one-by- spect – acknowledging, too, that “ for one, developing the process of some young people their burdens teaching students simultaneously. In come close to crushing them ”. other schools, students were taught first to read in Latin, but John revolu - “Touching the hearts of your students tionised education by teaching is the greatest miracle you can per - through the language of the people - form,” John wrote, adding that the Latin being useless to the children of Greece teachers were to “get to know their the poor. He founded the first students individually” . “Do you build schools to care for delinquents, as on their affection for you to lead well as the first secondary schools them to God?” (for modern languages, arts and sci - ences) and technical schools (offer - John built up communities of ing agricultural courses and practical Brother-teachers who would be well- workshops). motivated, fully committed, of sup - port to each other, and consecrated This ‘revolutionary’ approach to qual - by vows. This was a new develop - ity and balanced education is taken ment in the Church, differing from so much for granted today. It led to USA clerical and monastic traditions of the the well-off wanting to be taught time, and his community would be alongside the poor, and that gave composed entirely of Brothers. rise to lawsuits against John from those who had been employed as Essentially he showed teachers that ‘Writing Masters’ by those able to theirs was a ministry, a vocation in it - pay them. John insisted that no stu - self. Teachers inspired by John Bap - dents would be charged for their ed - tist De La Salle would demonstrate ucation. Instead, before any school the credibility of people living and was opened, formal agreements working together and in association, were reached with the parish or with ministering to others, bearing wit - benefactors for the upkeep of the Philippines ness to the Gospel, helping people teachers and the school. to discover the Presence of God in their lives. Some 70 years after John’s death, amidst the turmoil of the French Rev - olution, all the Brothers’ communities were closed. Nevertheless the revo - lutionary National Assembly ac - knowledged the contribution to society that had been made, and de - Malta clared that the Brothers had “de - served well of their country” - but they were not to be spared.

John died in 1719 and, in 1950, was LINKS declared the patron saint of teach - ers. It is a source of great pride to For books on De La Salle many throughout the world who find inspiration in John Baptist De La www.delasalle.org.uk/books.htm Salle, that (as of 2009) 89 Brothers (83 of them martyrs) now join him in Lasallian Heritage & being called “ Blessed” or “ Saint”. * Video Presentation www.lasalle.org/English/ Heritage/he.php

John is credited as having started a workable teacher-training system some 200 years before it was taken * The next seven articles of the series will reflect on the lives and inspiration of these up elsewhere. He composed several eighty-nine brothers.

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 9 Being a Lasallian Educator

What it means to Gery Short

I see now that what I was search - ing for 25 years ago was - in a word - my vocation as a Catholic Christian. This was a time when “vocation” was still narrowly de - fined to refer to consecrated men and women. But I was fortunate to have the guidance of a spiritual di - The vocation of a rector who told me something that I Lasallian educator Gery Short has been still hold to be deeply true. He said, “A vocation must ultimately be a Director of the Office of freeing experience. If it is not free - to our students”; a high-quality and Education for the District of professional educational pro - San Francisco since 1995. gramme; a spirit of association and He served as the Chair for If it is not freeing, community; fraternal and support - the International Assembly a vocation is ive relationships among teachers and administrators; and an ap - on Mission in 2006. He has not for you proach to religious education and been associated with spirituality that I found meaningful Lasallian education as a ing, it is not for you.” Perhaps Latin and practical for myself and for stu - teacher, coordinator for for - American theologians might call a dents. My feeling of having come home is one that many colleagues mation, and director for vocation of this sort a “liberation”. And I don’t think it is far-fetched to share. over 30 years. Gery has suggest that for John Baptist De La been married to Rosanne Salle (whom as yet I did not know) Alexander for 26 years. this would also be a fair definition Creating relationships They have three children, of the "salvation" he had in mind of being for his students. aged 24, 21, and 17. brothers and sisters In the autumn of 1978 I was hired to teach religious studies at a Lasallian high school. Meeting the Over the past 25 years I have met Brothers and the Lasallian mission with and worked with Brothers and for the first time, I quickly felt at other Lasallian educators in many home. Coming into this educational different areas, in schools and ministry after my experience other apostolates, and at district, among the marginalised in Colom - regional, and international levels. It bia and after my studies in theol - has long been clear to me that the ogy, I felt that the Brothers non-clerical character of the Broth - promoted values that were very ers' charism has been a tremen - dear to me: service of the poor; ed - dous asset in forming the bond of ucation as a liberating force; teach - association with lay men and ers as “older brothers and sisters women. The lack of barriers that

10 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 might arise in a clerical structure is have been married for 26 years, of effective structures, conducive to one part of it; another is the posi - and we have three children, now a rich spiritual life, that are authen - tive and vigorous fraternal relation - 24, 21, and 17 years of age. My tic and meaningful and are reflec - ships that the Lasallian charism vocation as husband and father tive of the real needs of family and teaches us to create. The Brothers must be balanced with my work, of one's ministerial responsibilities. interact with their Partners and As - which sometimes requires long sociates in a powerfully effective hours, travel, and absences that I am grateful to the De La Salle way that I think is unique in the can extend over weekends or sev - Brothers for their perseverance in Church today. And I know that the eral days. The need for balance is living lives as the animators and opportunities I have been given - to true in any job - but I think it may guarantors of the mission. I am take part in leadership and gover - be more challenging in a job like thankful for their friendship, and for nance in the district, the region, mine, in which the opportunities the many remarkable opportunities and the Institute - are an important and the needs my work addresses consequence of this non-clerical are so compelling. I am reminded character. by my wife, however, that one fact that helps in finding this balance is My Challenges that she and our children respect and admire the work that I do and The more aware we become of the the mission of which that work is a Lasallian mission and its spirit - part. Nevertheless, one of the com - through study, through networking mitments I do present to the Visitor and mutual encouragement, (Provincial) is the expectation that I through taking on greater responsi - put family first; and this has not al - bilities, through immersion pro - ways been easy. I know that my Many are embracing grammes in which we meet the family may suffer at times, and I their vocation as poor in various parts of the world - have also come to know that my Lasallian educators the better educators we can be. It soul suffers when I do not keep a has been through such experi - balance. ences that my vocation has been they have given me to take part in deepened, and I am convinced that this mission. I cherish my relation - it is through such experiences that My soul suffers ships with the many Lasallian edu - others’ vocations are deepened as when I do not cators who, like me, are well. discovering and embracing their keep a balance vocations as educators. Together we are working to carry on a mis - sion and a spirit that we have Another challenge is not losing found to be incredibly valuable for touch with prayer. The challenge of the Church and for the world, so finding - among family obligations that young people, especially the and work obligations - a proper poor and marginalised, may find My vocation structure or routine for a consistent what they most deeply need: salva - as husband prayer life is ongoing. Among the tion, liberation, a vocation, and and father Brothers in their communities, the their rightful place in this world. internal and external supports for means putting prayer life are established. But with family first my rather erratic and demanding schedule, and without built-in com - munity structures, I have had to try to create my own routines over the This article first appeared in The years, and not always successfully. Lasallian Charism - Lasallian Stud - Of course, one of the challenges of As we develop “association” more ies No.13. A review of this book a vocation that is both demanding formally in the international Insti - can be found on page 39. and fulfilling is the need to fulfil the tute, I see that one of the biggest commitments of work and the com - challenges for me and other Lasal - mitments of family. Rosanne and I lian educators is the development

The Lasallian - Summer/ Autumn 2009 | 11 The Kintbury Volunteers 2008/2009

The nine volunteers at St. Cassian’s Retreat Centre, Kintbury, reflect upon their year helping to run retreats for young people

St. Cassian’s Centre, just outside carried out by the Centre by spend - After spending time in Africa, Liam the village of Kintbury in Berkshire, ing a year working on the Team wanted to do something that really has been a retreat centre for young serving young people and living in made a difference. Annie, having people since its foundation in 1975 community. “Kintbury helped me so completed Sixth Form, deferred by Brother Damian Lundy, a De La much in my life, and being part of her university place to accept her Salle Brother known also for his the Team lets me support and help place on the Team. Matt joined the hymns. Since 1978 Team following a the Brothers and year spent in an - other senior staff other Catholic re - have been joined treat centre, Alton each year by young Castle in Stafford - people who spend a shire, and he rel - year of their lives as ished the part of the retreat opportunity to work Team, either when with older age they leave school or groups in another college at the age of community environ - 18 or after further ment. “Alton Castle education or other takes young people experience. from Year 5 to Year 8 on residential re - The 2008/2009 treats and from Year Team of nine volun - 3 on day retreats. At teers arrived in Sep - The Kintbury Volunteers St Cassian’s, the tember from all young people are walks of life. They have chosen to others,” says Holly W. “It is an from Years 9 to 13, which means “Walk in the Light” (as in the hymn amazing place to be”. by the end of this year I will have written by Brother Damian Lundy) worked with nearly all school and have committed one year of Ged and Bernard both joined the ages.” Ben, who had been to St their lives to a gap year of peer Team after completing University Cassian’s three times before as a ministry and community living. degrees. “After University, I knew I retreatant, completed the Team in Seven of the nine had visited St wanted to take a gap year to spend October when he filled a vacancy Cassian’s with their school and, in - some time doing something com - four weeks into the term. “A more spired by the “Kintbury experi - pletely different. After visiting Kint - than welcoming Team settled any ence”, felt encouraged to give bury on retreat, I applied for the nerves straight away,” says Ben. something back to the youth work Team straightaway,” says Ged.

12 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 The Team of nine volunteers with ogy and Art Therapy. “I aim to be - the help of a Team of lay staff and come a teacher and my time here De La Salle Brothers conducts the so far has furthered this desire,” retreats as youth leaders. “I never says Bernard. Annie is pleased to realised what a difference I could have gained valuable experience in make until I started working here,” living away from home and gaining says Liam. The Team in a support - skills useful for further studies: “I’m ive community environment feels working within a Team and doing happy with the responsibility given group work, including meditative to them to give presentations, or - art workshops, which is exactly ganise group sessions, workshops, what my University course is all services and lead music, all of which have had a positive effect on their public speaking and commu - nication skills. “The courage and confidence I have in myself have grown dramatically, and I’m learn - ing a lot of things about myself through living and working with the Team, who have also turned out to be some of the closest friends I’ve ever had,” says Annie.

As well as peer ministry, sharing in the life of a community of De La Salle Brothers and lay staff, the St. Cassian’s Retreat Centre, Kintbury volunteer Team are committed to growing in faith and living in the about! No doubt all aspects of this community spirit of faith, fun and year will affect my whole life some - friendship. “Since being here I’ve how.” grown in strength as a person, grown in faith and my relationship Sometimes the pressures of com - with God, and I have become part munity life, the long hours and the of a loving, extended family,” says work can be hard but the Team feel Ben. Three months into their gap blessed to have had this opportu - year, most of the Team speak of a nity. Holly H says, “My decision to deepening of their faith during their join the Team has paid off ... it has time at St Cassian’s through the had a massive impact on my life.” work they do. “The work is very ful - The Team will continue to live and filling, it is enabling me to grow in work at St Cassian’s until July but faith, as well as developing my their experience is something that confidence,” says Polly. Their ex - will stay with them for a long time perience so far is already impact - afterwards. Ged says; “It is often ing their lives for the future. said to the young people who come here that Kintbury begins LINKS A number of the Team want to con - when you drive out of the gates. www.delasalle.org/kintbury.htm tinue working with young people as When the volunteer Team leave in a result of the positive experience July, I’d like to think that, as part of Also search You Tube using of youth work they have had at St. the De La Salle family, we can all either ‘Kintbury’ or ‘Cassians’ Cassian’s. Others will go on to Uni - take the Lasallian spirit with us versity degrees in Teaching, Theol - wherever we go and whatever we decide to do with our lives.”

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 13 Italy

Sicily

Malta

Signum Fidei Association Malta

The Background

The Signum Fidei Association emerged in the 1970s when, in several places in the world, Lasal - lian lay people, hoping to find a special way to be committed in Brother Louis Camilleri leading a study session their Christian lives, asked the In - for new Signum Fidei members stitute if it would be possible to cre - ate closer links with the Brothers and with their spirit. From these beginnings, the Signum Fidei Signum Fidei (‘Sign of Faith’) - Malta Movement spread so that today it is in 29 countries. In 2000, the Brother Louis Camilleri co-ordinates the Signum Fidei Associa - 43rd General Chapter recognized tion in Malta. New members follow a two-year formation pro - the members of the Association as gramme that aims to deepen their spiritual life and to bring them Associates for the Lasallian Mis - to a greater understanding of the life of John Baptist De La sion. Salle, of Lasallian Spirituality and Lasallian Pedagogy. At the The members of the Association end of the formation period the new Signum Fidei members are spiritual people who are com - make a commitment for one year to live a specific ‘Style of Life’, mitted to making a difference in as outlined in a booklet of the same title. Their consecration for - education, formally and informally. mula allows each member to specify what apostolic activity they They strive to be Lasallian models are going to do. This may involve becoming a catechist to the young, but equally it could involve offering some of their profes - for those with whom they associ - sional time to help needy children. ate, demonstrating in their lives Lasallian values and principles of Malta has a thriving and enthusiastic Signum Fidei Association educational service to the young, that is made up of teachers, parents and other men and women especially the poor. They make who wish to deepen their spirituality and commit themselves to an annual commitment and belong be a Sign of Faith to the young. The Association also recognises to a local Signum Fidei community. that the members’ first community is their family, and it is there that they are first a Sign of Faith.

14 |The Lasallian - Summer/ Autumn 2009 On Retreat at Mellieha, the Brothers’ Retreat House

Apostolic work with young people

Signum Fidei members making their annual act of consecration As we take on this commitment, we humbly promise to live the lifestyle re - flected in the teaching of Saint John Baptist de La Salle. What we have ex - pressed this afternoon is a great com - mitment that will not always be easy for us to fulfil, but we place our trust in God, knowing that his Spirit will help us to live what the Spirit of Faith means. Our group is made up of pro - fessors, educators, parents, and ad - ministrators. Together we are now part of the Lasallian Family as members of Signum Fidei .

Charmaine Agius Ferrante March 2008

Charmaine spoke these words on Louise and Suzanne read out behalf of the new members joining their act of consecration the Signum Fidei Association

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 15 Teachers called to be ...

“visible angels” says John Baptist De La Salle by Br Nick Hutchinson

Some statues are symbolic, such as the Statue of Lib - recorded, and we can reflect that most of us will not be erty in New York’s harbour. Others are magnificent and remembered for doing anything ‘big’ in life. We are in - beautiful, like Michelangelo’s David or his Pieta , show - vited, though, to do many small things which, together, ing the body of the dead Jesus cradled in the arms of are very significant. Each small act of “ touching his mother. Contemporary sculpture can be ‘iconic’, hearts ” (to use a popular phrase of John Baptist De La and Anthony Gormley’s Angel of the North, shown Salle) – even simply smiling at an individual – can help above, (at 20 metres tall, with wings that are 54 me - change the kind of day that another person is having. tres across) speaks about the culture and renewal of If we look up the word ‘ angel ’ in a dictionary, we appre - England’s North East. ciate that it comes from a Greek word meaning ‘ messenger ’. We One of my favourite statues is that can reflect on the kind of mes - of another angel, called The Smil - sages – including those of body ing Angel , and it is on the North language - that we convey on a Front of Rheims Cathedral. It has particular day: messages from been weathered over the cen - ourselves and those which God turies and bears witness to the expects us to pass on. near destruction of the cathedral in the First World War. The statue Half of the lifetime of John Baptist is just above eye-level and bears De La Salle was spent in Rheims a most enchanting – if not and, surely, he passed this Smil - ‘cheeky’ – smile. This work of art ing Angel often – not least during draws the best out of us: the smile the years he served as a canon of invites us to respond. I can’t imag - the cathedral, attending church ine not smiling or chuckling on services there every day. I like to seeing this statue! L’Ange au think that this statue was some - Sourire is a good piece of art be - thing special for him, as it has be - cause it engages and even capti - The Smiling Angel come so for others. John was vates the viewer: inviting the Rheims Cathedral described by his first biographer individual to be part of the scene. as “ a cheerful person ”, and I think For that reason The Smiling Angel is now a recognis - it is a fair conclusion to draw that when John invited able ‘icon’ for that region of the Champagne country - the first teachers to consider themselves as “ visible side of northern France, and is often depicted on angels ”, he at least had in mind this Statue of the Smil - tourist leaflets. ing Angel . Realising that the word ‘angel’ also tends to imply ‘guiding’ and ‘protecting’, let us see what John The name of the statue’s sculptor has not been wrote about the teachers as “ visible angels ”:

16 |The Lasallian - Summer/ Autumn 2009 1. “So as to put the Gospel into practice, Are these words from 300 years ago simply fan - young people need good teachers ciful, or do they present a reminder and chal - like visible angels lenge to us today? Do we not join so many to inspire them by their words and witness. parents – the first teachers – who seek to pro - Win over the young tect and guide those who are entrusted to our as to how the Gospel care? Are not the best teachers those who are can make a strong impression role-models because they are good witnesses, on minds and hearts, offering genuine inspiration? Is it because we and take pride in your ministry.” show great respect to each person and seek to understand them, that people relate well with 2. “God has provided young people with teachers, us? Do people perceive us to be taking pride in and you are to have care and vigilance our ministry, and bringing faith and prayer to to keep away from the path of salvation what we do? Will we be remembered for guiding everything that could harm them.” people along their path of salvation?

3. “Young people need the light of watchful guides Let us pray for ourselves and our students of the to lead them on the path of salvation: past, present and future, that we remain commit - guides who have an adequate understanding ted to smile and touch hearts and be messen - of what God expects of young people, gers of Good News. Amen. guides who are aware of shortcomings and pitfalls. Help your disciples develop a strong faith, practising the good that is appropriate to their years.”

4. “Thank God every day for those placed under your guidance. Ask him that you may be good guides through the light that your prayers will obtain for you from God, and through the faithfulness you bring to your work. The commitment and faithfulness that you bring to your ministry contribute to the salvation of the young, and your commitment and enthusiasm must be so great that you are ready to give your very life, so dear to you are those entrusted to you.”

5. “Those teachers – those angels – who have taught young people A wall display in and have formed them in the faith, De La Salle College, will be rewarded. Junior School, Malta Yes, your reward in heaven will be as great as the good that you will achieve in the lives of the young people who are confided to your care. What a consolation when in heaven for those who have helped bring about the salvation of others, References: to see there Meditations for the Time of Retreat (MTR): a great number of those you have helped! 1 – MTR 5.2; 7.3 What a special re-union 2 – MTR 5.3 between teachers and disciples! 3 – MTR 5.3; 16.1; 6.2 There in heaven, in the presence of God, 4 – MTR 15.3; 5.3; 16.3; 6.2 you will shine like stars 5 – MTR 16.1; 16.2 amidst those you have taught!”

Next issue: “Called to be shepherds”

The Lasallian - Summer/ Autumn 2009 | 17 Getting to know....

Frank Micallef Headteacher, Stella Maris Senior School, Gzira, Malta

The best advice my parents passed on to me was: They taught me the principle, ‘Don’t lie’, no matter whatever the consequences. Do the right thing, just face it.

My favourite books: I enjoy reading Sci-fi books.

A good word to describe me is Frank.

What would you like to be remembered for? Being a friend to my wife, kids and staff. For building up relationships and as one who did not forget to love.

As a child I dreamed of being? Did not want to be a teacher or work with computers, and yet I became a teacher specialising in computers.

What Lasallian person inspired you and why? My wife. She helped me understand that what makes us ‘Lasallian’ is actually seeing the face of God in the peo - ple around us. The key moment for me was seeing my wife as a personal gift from God; the realisation of God’s hand in my life. Therefore being a Lasallian is all to do with relationships, in the same way as being married. I am talking about a relationship that is formed by being on a journey together. This does not happen overnight .

Something that really annoys me is going to the bank.

If you could ask God one question what would it be? Help!

If your house was on fire, what object would you save? My laptop.

When I relax I like to carry out DIY in the house.

My guilty pleasure is pasta & wine.

Describe your best Lasallian moment to date. An event from the past that affected me most and made me think was a spina-bifida boy I taught for seven years. In hindsight I now see that because he was in a wheelchair we did not see his full potential; I felt that as educationists we failed him, failed to help him live a full life. That is why today I strive as a Lasallian Head - teacher to make sure that all children in my school explore and strive to achieve their individual maximum poten - tial.

18 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 Brendan Wall Headteacher, St. Augustine’s Catholic College Trowbridge, Wiltshire

Which Lasallian Person inspired you, and why? Damian Lundy. He taught me R.E. at Kintbury and inspired me to see faith as integral to life. Damian inspired me to become an R.E. teacher and his classroom showed the Spirit of God alive. Of current Brothers, Anthony Rothwell showed faith as integral to life in a different way to Damian. We played in the De La Salle Sheffield rugby team together when I was a 6 th former. I still use his words with my staff, ‘ We’re here for the kids ’.

The last thing I cooked was A meal of rump steak, chips and peas with red wine, followed by Tarte au Citron with cream as a celebration.

If your house was on fire, what object would you save first? First the people inside and then photographs of my family.

Describe your best Lasallian moment to date. Watching my daughter, Maria, lead a session as a Kintbury Team Member at a Family Weekend, and going as a Lasallian Chaplain in Bankstown, Australia, for six months.

My guilty indulgence is champagne.

My favourite pastime is reading.

My favourite show on TV is ‘Dirty Sexy Money’.

How I became involved in the Lasallian Mission I attended De La Salle College, Sheffield, and Dominic Green (Vocations Director) recruited me at 13 years old to go to Kintbury as a Junior Novice …. The rest is history.

If I could change something about myself it would be not to rush into decisions until I got all of the neces - sary information.

My best Lasallian feeling is when I listen to staff who have taken on board the Lasallian axioms as part of their working life and who appreciate our weekly Lasallian reflections with the LAMB Community/Chaplaincy Team who join us from Bristol.

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 19 De La Salle Humanities College, Liverpool

“Students are proud of their school” A recent inspection by HM In - ple who show respect for each other spectors and Ofsted of De La and their teachers. Students make Salle Humanities College in Liver - exceptional levels of progress due to pool has awarded the North Liv - the very high standard of teaching, erpool school “outstanding”, the good curriculum and the high making all the staff, students and quality of support, care and guid - parents rightly proud of their ance. “ school. Only 4% of the schools in England and Wales have been so highly rated for their quality of ed - ucation and management.

“De La Salle provides an outstanding education”

The Inspection report says: “De La Salle provides an outstanding edu - cation with the headteacher’s clear, strategic direction for the school The Inspectors also commented: leading to rapid, sustained improve - “Personal development and well- ment in achievement, standards and being in both the main school and in “Personal development students’ personal development.” the sixth form are outstanding. Stu - .....is outstanding” dents report that they feel safe and It went on to say: “Students are secure with the school adopting a proud of their school and are confi - zero tolerance to bullying and racist dent, polite and friendly young peo - remarks.”

20 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 De La Salle Humanities College, Liverpool

The report added: “Students’ spiritual, moral, so - cial and cultural development is excellent: their behaviour around the school site and in lessons “Students’ spiritual, moral, is outstanding.” social and cultural development is excellent .... The school received marks classed as “outstand - ing” in the Overall Effectiveness of the School cat - their behaviour is outstanding” egory, Effectiveness of sixth form, Achievement and standards, Personal development and well- being, Teaching and learning, Care, guidance and support, and Leadership and management.

Everyone associated with De La Salle Humanities College is very pleased that all the hard work over recent years has been recognised. They feel cer - tain that the school can only get better and better.

“the hard work has been recognised”

The outstanding education that is provided by De La Salle will not only change the lives of our cur - rent students but will change lives for generations to come.

This achievement reflects well upon everyone in our school community and upon all those associ - ated with De La Salle.

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 21 y e n e e D

n h o J © Lasallian Developing World Projects

“Volunteers who have been and seen and helped with their own hands are more likely to be com - mitted to helping the developing GHANA world in the future .” An 18 year old student wrote this on her return We were helping to build three class - from five weeks of work in Africa. rooms and an office. The majority of our I was pleased that she had under - group were school-leaving age or just stood the basic reason why we in - over and had no building experience. vite young people from Britain to However, with the help of the builders take part in work projects in Africa we picked up the basic skills. Of course, or Asia during their summer holi - some of us made the odd mistake, such days. The impact isn’t only per - as leaning on a freshly-built wall and sonal. We help local workers to put nearly demolishing it. The building site up school buildings paid for by did not have running water so this was fetched from the money raised in Britain; we help in nearest source. Everyone will have seen images of large school lessons; we make friends pans being carried on people’s heads and how it looks so with the local community, get a dif - easy to do; so we all decided to give it a go, with the local ferent perspective on the problems woman who could not speak English telling us how to do it. of our world and we share that ex - Out of the 12 of us I was the only one who managed to perience on our return. The words walk 10 steps before wobbling and getting thoroughly of the volunteers themselves give soaked. But the women, sometimes with a child strapped the best impression of what goes to their back, would walk back and forth in the afternoon on. heat, maybe on just one meal a day, and still be able to Br John Deeney greet us with a smile. Awe-inspiring! Matt

22 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 RWANDA

I feel that perhaps I have taken away more from the project than the commu - SOUTH AFRICA nity in Rwanda. Although that may seem strange, I think it is a positive thing that the balance swings this way, for if not we might just as well send the money and let them do the work themselves. This goes for any gap-year style voluntary proj - ect; yes, the community at the receiving end of the project could do more if they had the money from the air-fares, but the eye-opening Almost without realising it we experience and knowledge the young volun - grew closer to the children teers gain is invaluable. Jessica and their teacher and when it came time to leave, it struck us how much we’d bonded with them. When the school had an assembly to say good - bye, Kate and I had a cheer Lasallian Developing World Projects from the class we had taught and I think we both left with a lump in our throats. The whole point of the projects, after all, is to provide an opportunity for UGANDA education. I can’t speak for the children we taught, but I Whilst reflecting on our Ghana know that I’ve never learnt so time in the village, a much in my life. Andy few particular things spring to mind. First,

cooking in our outdoor Uganda ‘kitchen’ – which con - sisted of two charcoal stoves, a Rwanda plank balanced on bricks and a few roaming chickens or the occasional goat. Second, surviving without electricity. We spent hours trying to LINKS boil water on a tiny charcoal stove in www.delasalle.org.uk/ complete darkness. But we could ldwp/about.htm watch the breathtaking African sun - sets, lie under a blanket of stars and email: [email protected] experience the most spectacular thunder and lightning without our view being distorted by light pollu - tion. Perhaps the most moving mo - ment of our final days in Butema South Africa was the sadness of the locals at our y

departure and their difficulty in un - e n e

derstanding why we were sad to be e D

n

returning to our normal luxurious h o lifestyle. Marie J ©

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 23 I Am Your Sister

My home is a whitewashed compound at the top of a hill with a little dirt court - yard right in the middle; a place sur - rounded by noise, laughter, activity and work; a place where love exists in the smiles and songs of all those who live there. It’s a place a long way away from where I am now. Nestled in the Ugandan countryside at the side of a red dust road, it doesn’t have mod cons or running water and electricity is temperamental to say the least, but I can - not imagine a time filled more with happiness than the five weeks I spent there with my Lasallian family and a community more gen - erous in spirit than I ever thought possible. ... As we left our bed - rooms, kitchen and compound for the last time, Victoria, one of the girls from the parish, said to each of us in turn “Tell your par - ents they have a daughter; I am your sister.” We may have helped provide a building, but in Kitoba our project group found a home. Mhairi

www.delasalle.org.uk/ldwp/about.htm Brother Austin raises £30,000

Brother Austin Casson, who is 85 and lives in the Brothers’ Community at Clayton Court, near Petersfield, Hampshire has for the last thirty years been raising money for Brother James Kimpton, the founder of RTU (see page 26). The total he has raised so far has now exceeded £30,000 and he has done this mainly by selling icons.

In 1952 Bro. James Kimpton, aged 27, and teaching in Bournemouth, vol - unteered to go to India to help the very poor. He is now eighty-three years old and still working there. He is in the centre of southern India, about 25 miles from Madurai and has built four villages, where he looks after 550 orphans and about 200 widows. y o r n o

C In the late seventies, Brother Austin, having heard about Brother James’

t e

n wonderful work, decided to help him in some way. Austin was lecturing at e B Hopwood Hall Teacher Training College in Middleton, Manchester, after Brother Austin Casson being Headteacher at nearby Cardinal Langley School. He decided to raise money for Brother James by selling mounted postcards on chip- board and very soon he had made £110.

During the long vacation periods Hopwood Hall College became a centre for conferences and retreats, and Austin sold his pictures to this ready- made audience. He found that the biggest demand, especially amongst nuns, was for his icons, and they became the main items he sold for the next thirty years.

Brother Austin’s method for making a quality icon was very simple. He usually persuaded a Brother visiting or working in Rome to purchase pictures of icons; for some reason they were very much cheaper in Rome than in England. He then cut some MDF board a little larger than the size of the icon, painted it black and then stuck on the icon. With the addition of a small hole in the back, to enable the icon to be placed on a wall, the newly made icon was then sealed in a polythene bag, ready to be sold.

In recent years, Br James has been sending Austin hand-painted leaves from India, which are highly sought-after. Brother James has trained some of the village ladies also to do the painting in order to give them an income. Brother Austin mounts these leaves on black card which fits very neatly into a standard picture frame (6 X 4 inches) or on a folded card, to be sent as a notelet.

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 25 Lessons in Love Education at RTU in India

Oriole Henry

There was something different about the primary and secondary schools in the NGO, Reaching the Unreached (RTU), in Tamil Nadu. I had expected them to be different, as many of the children were or - phans or abandoned, and there were obvious differences with schemes to help empower the dis - enfranchised. There were also similarities with schools I have known like a science lab, dance classes and blackboards but it still

didn’t feel the same. There was i n r

something more, a different atmos - A

e phere, a feeling, which at first I r a l

couldn’t define. C

Manobar, the receptionist who dren themselves in the small Only these similarities, I realised, looks after guests, showed me screen on the back of my camera. were ones to be proud of in a rural around. We started at the day- Both Gauri, the teacher, and Mano - school, funded by charity. This care centre, which (like the other bar restored order, but they were was why the teacher in the science schools on the campus) is for the laughing as they did it. And the lab, which was opened in 2006, children within RTU but also for children quietened but stayed smil - was bursting with pride, as she those from the villages around. It ing. There was, I realised, love in showed me the filtration experi - was like any other pre-school full of the room but this was a day-care- ment the class was doing. Their colours and toys, and the children, centre, and yes: children could be schools were an achievement be - like any under-threes, immediately happy and inspired, but love? cause, as Manobar told me, “The broke from the neat circle they class sizes in RTU are 20 to 22 were standing in to run to see who It was love; no other word could children. In government schools it the visitor was – so that I had ex - describe it. It wasn’t care, or un - is anything from 40 to 90.” I re - cited little bundles pressing up derstanding, or even empathy, alised the similarities I was seeing against my knees. though all of those things were were in fact differences, and differ - there as well. No, the only way to ences that RTU had worked hard There were also the obvious differ - describe the atmosphere was love: to create. ences that Manobar explained. The unconditional, instinctive and un - centre allowed mothers from the forced love. I put this down to the area to work, a necessity when young age of those in the day-care 80% live below the poverty line. centre and dismissed it similarly in Also, and more often, he said, the the nursery school. I was sure it day-care centre meant the elder wouldn’t be there in the primary child could go to school and was and secondary schools, which not kept at home to look after the teach from 1st to 12th standard. younger ones. But there was also In the airy classrooms, designed by something else that was different, Brother James, from England, who i

which I noticed when pandemo - n started RTU, the classes were sim - r A nium broke loose after I took a e

ilar to other schools I have known. r a

photograph and showed the chil - l C

26 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 i n r A

e r a l C

They were easy to overlook be - the same feeling with the children they understand, and stay, with the cause there were more obvious dif - happily drawing, singing, adding, love and affection that is needed ferences. “Sometimes they [the colouring and writing on the black for the job.” Hugging Paparti, he orphans] have problems,” Manobar boards that were imbedded into the introduced me, saying, “I held her explained, “because their father walls at their height. In the primary in my arms when she was a child”. has died, or they have seen their school they were being taught by mother pour kerosene on herself the snake method, initiated by the I realised they helped to bring each and kill herself. Some of these local government. This was activity other up, first Brother James with children find it difficult to be with led, rather than the old form of Manobar, and then Manobar with other students. So we have the telling and reciting. So each child Parpati, and on now to the children Bright Class, where the teachers learnt at their own pace, following in their care, and many of them did are aware, can counsel, give more up the snake, on which were differ - it with love because they under - one-on-one time, and then the chil - ent tasks (where dancing and stood absolutely what they had dren can, when they are ready, re - maths had equal merit), up until at needed as orphans. After meeting join the other classes.” intervals they reached a gold Brother James, I also understood crown. I saw one girl receive her they did it with love because he Another difference was a wider crown as everyone in the class created and ran RTU with the sense of education to help em - smiled and clapped her. And there same instinctive understanding of power the children in an area that it was again, love. What I began to uncon ditional love. has been disenfranchised by rural wonder was, why? poverty. So the school has a bank, for which each child is given a As I sat on the school veranda hav - bankbook and can put in however ing tea with Manobar I got my an - much they want – five paisa or ten swer. “I was one of the first boys (a fraction of a penny). “They can Brother James took in,” Manobar also withdraw it,” Manobar ex - told me. “My father died of TB, my plained, “because we want to show mother of cancer. We were six them not to be afraid of banks, and children with no means to help our - how they work, and how to save selves. Brother James is my fa - LINKS money.” Their parents, their grand - ther, he still tells me off when I parents, aunts and uncles, he told haven’t shaved,” he said, laughing me, will often have never been into and rubbing at the stubble on his www.rtu.org.uk a bank in their lives. chin. Then one of the teachers, Paparti, walked up and Manobar In all of the classes in the primary said, “A lot of the people who work and secondary schools there was here are children of RTU because

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 27 Coatbridge: Our Most Northerly Community

Th e Cas Br Livinus St t of S . Mun inbad go’s the Mau Appr Sailo chlin oved r, e, Ay Scho rshire ol, , 1948 In Scotland between 1914 and 1992 cations’ promotion and the De La Salle Brothers were in - Caring Church Weeks, as volved in five residential schools well as organising visits which catered for boys and eventu - by young people to St. ally girls, with social, emotional, ed - Cassian’s Pastoral Cen - ucational and behavioural tre at Kintbury. problems. The early Industrial The present community house was Schools became in turn, Approved purchased in 1983. Currently three schools, List D Schools and Care `retired’ Brothers - Livinus, Oliver and Terence – make up what could basis. Our open community offers be termed a Scottish remnant com - general support to local people. Brother Livinus with pupils from St. Joseph’s List D School, Tranent, munity, which is the sole repository Activities of individual members in - enjoying their annual berry picking of past memories of the residential clude attendance at meetings/con - camp: circa 1980 schools, and is a contact for many ferences organised by the grateful past pupils and those who Conference of Religious in Scotland experienced sessions at St. Cass - and membership of the Scottish ian’s in their youth. Missionary Forum. As part of the

A recent pastoral letter from our Su - perior General referred to the per - sonal experience of Cardinal Martini with intercessory prayers for those he had served as Archbishop of Milan. This is an encouragement to us, now retired from apostolic work in schools, to continue the mission The Coatbridge Community: in a similar effective manner. In ad - Brothers Livinus, Oliver and Terry Homes with education on the prem - dition, like our predecessors, no - ises. Although over the years condi - tably Alfred Guilfoyle and Gregory pastoral ministry of vocations there tions and staffing improved, the Gallimore, we are all actively en - is involvement with the Diocesan work was arduous but was seen as gaged in various ministries in our Young Adult Ministry Team, includ - an apostolate dear to the heart of parish – one of nine in Coatbridge. ing visits to schools and the Voca - our Founder, St. John Baptist De La We host prayer group meetings and tions’ Awareness Forum. Salle. evenings of recollection. The monthly meetings of the Motherwell Visitors to our welcoming commu - The Coatbridge Community on the Diocesan Justice and Peace group nity learn that not only are we near outskirts of Glasgow is rather un - are held in the house. We facilitate a section of the Antonine Wall, usual in that it was never attached meetings of the increasing numbers which was at one time the northern to a school. From 1974 until 1983 a of Scottish Lasallian Developing limit of the Roman Empire, but we small group of Brothers ran a Social World Projects’ volunteers. Al Anon, are the most northerly community of Work Department Hostel for Tru - a support group for relatives of alco - the De La Salle Institute which has ants. They were also involved in vo - holics, use our facilities on a weekly a presence in over eighty countries.

28 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 The Pupil Listening Service

In 2003 De La Salle School, St. He - lens, set up a Pupil Listening Serv - ice, under the guidance of Anna Back, Head of Modern Languages. It was set up in response to the re - alisation that in some instances, stu - dents find it easier to confide in a fellow student rather than an adult. It was envisaged to be a service that Each lunch time the Listeners base themselves in the was run by the students for the stu - school chapel, with different students on each day during dents, and would form one part of the week. The message given to the other students is: the school’s initiative to look after Whether you pop in because you have some good news the emotional health and well-being and no one to share it with, because you have fallen out of its students. Confidentiality is an with your friend, or because you feel you are being bul - issue, and this would have to be lied, there is always someone your own age there to very much an upfront part of the chat to. service. Everyone involved will need to know that whilst respect for confi - The Listeners are also trained to be observant as they dentiality is the norm, certain infor - go around the school, and by wearing the distinctive Lis - mation has to be shared with the teners’ tie, other students are aware that they are there appropriate adult. for them. Listeners also visit the feeder primary schools, helping to make the transition from Y6 to Y7 as smooth Six years on and we now have a as possible. team of fifty students across all the year groups. When vacancies arise, There is an obvious need for this service, as it is well we hold interviews and the selected used. The knowledge that in a busy big school there is listeners then join the other students always someone there for you, was echoed by one stu - for the annual two day training pro - dent when they said, “ It is good to know that someone of gramme. The training days cover your own age is there to listen to you. ” listening skills, including body lan - guage, and empathy. As mentioned Students who form part of the Pupil Listening service are above, confidentiality is covered monitored on a monthly basis, and it is good to see how and, over the two days, students’ they, as individuals, benefit from being part of the serv - awareness of themselves and oth - ice, growing in confidence and self esteem. The benefits ers is improved. Students are go beyond the school gate as indicated by one Listener trained primarily to LISTEN: not to who said, “ Being a Listener has not just benefited both solve problems. Although bullying is me and the people who come to the Chapel, it has bene - not the main focus, these issues fited friends and family who feel more confident to come form part of the training programme and talk to me about their problems. ” As a reward for and each year several students are being part of the service, each year the Listeners are nominated for the Diana Anti-Bully - taken on an evening trip to Laserquest, an exciting ing Award. shooting game.

After a suitable probationary period, The Pupil Listening Service has become a valuable part the Listener is awarded a special of our school life and we would recommend any school school tie that alerts other pupils that to set up the service in their school; they will never go they are part of the listening service. back to being without one.

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 29 De La Salle, Zapallal, r e n f e H Lima, Peru e v e t

Br Mark O’Rourke S

There has been a connection bet - over 60). The desert conditions ween the District of Great Britain presented many challenges but and the colegio since the begin - with a lot of hard work, sweat and ning, as one of the founding fathers faith, trees were planted and have and first Head was Brother Paul turned the school grounds into a

r McAuley of our District. The Bro - veritable oasis. e n f

e thers in Peru had wanted a project H

e

v in an area of poverty and so they e t

S contacted the Jesuits who had great experience of this apostolate in many countries of Latin America. Brother Mark, pictured In 1955 a Jesuit in Venezuela had above, was previously started the Fe y Alegría movement to provide schooling for the poor. r e n f

Headteacher of De La (“Fe y Alegria” stands for Faith and e H

e

Salle School (St. Happiness.) From there it spread v e t Anselm’s), Basildon, to many neighbouring countries. S before he ‘retired’ and With the help and know-how of the Jesuit Fathers, a site was chosen The temporary classrooms, made went to Peru. He in the coastal desert north of Lima, from estera, plaited strips of bam - writes about the his - where a shanty town was growing boo, were gradually replaced by tory of the school with up. the standard brick buildings, which he is now in - synonymous with Fe y Alegría. In 1991 the first temporary classro - The numbers of pupils quickly in - volved. oms were erected by the prospec - creased and so more classrooms tive parents. The initial site was were built and also workshops. Readers may have not considered suitable for future The workshops greatly added to seen other articles on development and they moved to a the growing reputation of the larger, flatter area nearby. And so school, especially in the areas of this Lasallian school in started the 43rd foundation of Fe y carpentry, textiles and ceramics. the Sainsbury’s Maga - Alegría in Peru (there are now Another area that brought the zine.

30 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn2009 school into the spotlight was the hydroponía which showed that it was possible and com - mercial to grow vegetables and plants with a well-organised and economic use of water. The wide expanses of healthy lettuces were great proof of the viability. 1991

The careful development of the school site and the wide curriculum in the school led to our winning many national prizes. More na - tional fame came when Harrods in London or - dered products from our ceramics and textile workshops in support of their Peruvian week. The great demand for practical subjects led to more workshops with new disciplines – metal - work, electronics, electricity and more re - 1997 cently, graphic design and programming.

There are 1400 pupils in the school with the age range from kindergarten to 5th year sec - ondary (Year 11 in the UK). In fact there is a nursery on the school site that accepts babies from six months. The secondary pupils are in school from 7.45 to 12.45 pm and then they return in the afternoon and evening for works - hops. The primary pupils come in at 1.00 till 5.50pm. In the evenings we also have adult classes for the workshops which the 5th 2007 years can join. r e n f e H

e v e t S

Many problems still exist – under-nourishment, po - verty, unemployment, r e n which in turn breed gangs, f e H

drug abuse and violence. e v e However the growth of the t S school, the successes in further education, the lo -

yalty of former pupils indi - r e n f

cate a vitality and e H

confidence that were the e v e t hopes of the early days of S

the school. r e n f e H

e v e t S

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 31 Bethlehem University

Founded in 1973 in the Lasallian tradition: open to students of all faiths

Br David Scarpa

Bethlehem University was founded at the request of the Holy See in 1973 and entrusted to the De La Salle Brothers. In March 2000, dur - ing his pilgrimage to the Holy Land, Pope John Paul II paid this tribute: ‘The Catholic Church is particularly happy to serve the noble cause of education through the extremely valuable work of Bethlehem Uni - versity, founded as a sequel to the visit of my predecessor, Pope Paul VI in 1964’.

The Brothers had established a Brother David was born in Novitiate at Bethlehem in 1893 to 1939 at Ruislip, Middlesex, prepare Palestinian Brothers to de - and went to school at the velop the Holy Land mission. In the Salvatorian College, Harrow middle of the 20th century, two Weald, before joining the Palestinian Brothers, trained in the Brothers in 1956. He has Bethlehem Novitiate, came to the taught at Cardinal Langley Inglewood House of Studies at Kintbury as classmates of mine. School, Middleton, and at One of them, Br. Jean Norbert De La Salle College, Manuel, went on to complete a doctorate in Teaching English as a Salford. In 1990 he was Foreign Language at New York appointed to Bethlehem University. He was Headmaster in University and developed a the Brothers’ schools in Jerusalem programme in the Earth & and Bethlehem. Br. Jean played a Environmental Sciences. very significant role in helping to In 2003 he became Dean of found Bethlehem University in the Science Faculty. He has 1973. He was appointed Assistant an MSc in geology from Professor in the English Depart - Liverpool University and a ment, a position he held until his PhD in hydrology from retirement. London University. At present he is the Bethlehem University has about Director of the Provincialate 3,000 full-time students completing Community and a Trustee undergraduate degrees in Arts, Ed - of the De La Salle ucation, Humanities, Tourism and Charitable Trust. Brother David Scarpa, far left, Hotel Management, Social Sci - conducting fieldwork with his ences and Business Administra - students in the Negev Desert tion, and in the Natural Sciences,

32 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 in Nursing and Health Sciences. One of Bethlehem University’s The Cardinal Basil Hume Chair of Chemistry graduates, Daude Religious Studies is endowed by Kassabri, became a De La Salle grants from The Friends of Bethle - Brother, completing his Novitiate in hem University in the United King - Nairobi, where Br. Livinus Lalor, dom. There are a few now in the Coatbridge Community post-graduate courses in selected in Scotland, was one of his teach - research areas. The Institute for ers. He made his First Vows in the Community Partnership at the Uni - B.U. Chapel. Br. Daude obtained versity runs about 100 extra-mural an M.A in Theology at the Jesuit courses each year for business University in Beirut and now people, housewives, and other teaches in the Brothers’ High members of the local community. School in Jerusalem.

As part of their Advent pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 2006, British Cardinal Murphy O’Connor meeting a Church leaders visited Bethlehem student at Bethlehem University University. They held group discus - sions with students and Faculty members and completed their visit with a prayer service in the Univer - sity chapel.

For further information on Bethle - hem University visit their website, LINKS which can be found in the LINKS box: www.bethlehem.edu wseru.bethlehem.edu Over 10,000 students have graduated in the last 35 years . www.ipcri.org

Despite being closed twelve times by Israeli military imposed orders, the longest of which was for three years from October 1987 until Oc - tober 1990, classes have contin - ued on and off campus. The curfews, travel restrictions, military checkpoint harassment, and the negative impact of the Israeli mili - tary occupation of the West Bank have not deterred the students from completing their degrees.

...working together in hope ....

The University’s story is one of people committed to pursuing their higher education – perseverance and courage in the face of adver - sity and injustice – working to - Church Leaders from Britain in the University’s Chapel of the Divine Child from left to right, David Coffey, Moderator of the Free Churches, gether in hope with an ever Nathan Hovhannisian, Primate of the Armenian Apostolic Church, Cardinal Cormac widening international circle of col - Murphy-O’Connor, Dr. Rowan Williams, with Archbishop Fouad Twal, B.U. President leagues to build a better future.

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 33 ASSEDIL Congress

BROTHER AIDAN OPENS THE ASSEDIL CONGRESS IN IPSWICH

This year, the fourteenth annual (the Lasallian Region of Europe) gathering of Lasallian Headteach - and Brother Lorenzo Tebar, our ers of Europe (ASSEDIL) was Regional Secretary. hosted by St Joseph’s College, Ipswich, starting in the early In his welcoming address, Aidan evening of Friday March 27 and stressed the importance we attach ending at midday on the following to the role of ASSEDIL in the life of Monday. There were over 100 Lasallian Europe. “We are aware headteachers from what is now in - that the District of Great Britain and creasingly referred to as Western Malta represents a small part of the Europe (Italy, France, Austria, Hun - Lasallian world in Europe, but it is gary, Spain, Belgium, Ireland, a dynamic one and forward-looking Great Britain and Malta) plus a in the search for those new forms Geert Mortier, Belgium handful from the Near East of the Lasallian Educational Mis - (Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt and sion that accompany the ideals of The theme of the Congress cen - Palestine/Israel). shared mission and association in tred around the question “What response to the orientations and kind of educators does a Lasallian challenges of the International As - school need?” Geert Mortier from sembly of 2006 (Associated for the Flemish Belgium set the tone with Lasallian Educational Mission) and the opening, keynote talk on “Why the 44th General Chapter of 2007. be a Headteacher in a Lasallian Over recent years the nature of our School?” This was followed up by a Lasallian educational presence in presentation on the training of the District has changed signifi - Lasallian Educators given by Bruno cantly. For example, with the ex - Lagniez, the former lay head of our ception of Malta, all the school in Nîmes and currently Headteachers of our Lasallian based in the Rue de Sèvres in schools are lay people and we are charge of Lasallian training ses - very proud of their achievements sions for all the schools of France. and of their attempts to promote an Finally Paolo Tacchi, from Paderno Br Aidan, Visitor updated Lasallian educational phi - de Grappa and the President of losophy. At the same time, in our ASSEDIL, gave a presentation on District Administration, we are con - “Organising exchanges for Aidan as the local Brother Visitor scious of our responsibility to sup - staff/students and sharing experi - (Provincial) welcomed the dele - port the work of our Headteachers ences”. gates and the invited guests who in developing the Lasallian ethos included Brother Jaques d’Huiteau, through the provision of adequate The topic of exchanges of students the General Councillor for RELEM, Lasallian formation.” is a difficult one for us. As Aidan

34 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn2009 As Aidan pointed out, this was the second time that St Joseph’s had played host to ASSEDIL (the last occasion being in 2003). Moreover, our Sector of Malta hosted the 2006 Congress: all of which illus - trates our District’s commitment to, and appreciation of, ASSEDIL. We A ‘ Mexican wave ’ whilst on a visit to Ipswich Town Football Club are proud of the role that Siân Grant, the Principal of St Joseph’s, said in his opening remarks, “We Some delegates found the pro - has played as a member of the value the international dimension gramme heavy going, especially on ASSEDIL Council and as President of our Region and the solidarity the Saturday, and the lack of a that comes with it, along with the scheduled siesta time was specifi - international connections that are cally bemoaned by some. How - open to our schools and colleges ever, the Congress was not ‘all through our Lasallian network. Un - work and no play’. There was a fortunately, given the small number visit to Cambridge, with plenty of of establishments in the District, we sunshine laid on, although of the cannot always respond to all the cold variety. Actually the highlight requests for links and exchanges of the trip for many was the novelty that come to us from the hundreds of a ride in a gigantic double- The ASSEDIL COMMITTEE of Lasallian schools throughout Eu - decker bus of 102 seats. (The Ox - rope.” The question is complicated ford Tube only has 79). The dele- even further for us by the in - gates looked more like pupils than of the Association over the last six creased bureaucracy connected headteachers as they scrambled to years. We particularly appreciated with Safeguarding regulations. secure places on the upper deck. her willingness to make the re - However, the idea of having ex - sources of St Joseph’s available changes of staff, especially senior for the occasion, supported by a staff, within the Lasallian network very dedicated and efficient staff, across Europe is one from which teaching and administrative, and our own schools could benefit the excellent catering provided by greatly. The District LEM Council the new generation of McGinns. placed the topic on the agenda for Br Terry Collins its next meeting on April 19th.

A second theme for the Congress concerned the possibilities of Col - GLOSSARY laboration between ASSEDIL and Another relaxing moment was the RELEM. Brother Jacques Gala Dinner in the Bobby Robson LEM: Lasallian Education Mission d’Huiteau expressed his conviction hospitality suite of Ipswich Town A council within the Great Britain that the future development of Football Club (roast lamb followed Lasallian Network that oversees Lasallian education in Europe will by a superior sort of bread and but - the mission in Great Britain depend very much on the way the ter pudding). Finally the Sunday two structures work together in tan - Mass was a joyous occasion in the RELEM: Ré gion Lasallienne Europe Méditerranée dem. There is an African proverb school chapel, beautifully deco - The Lasallian Region that says ‘ To climb a tree you need rated with work of the students to which our two arms’. To build a dynamic and which had been put in place during District belongs. productive Lasallian Region of Eu - their end of term liturgy. (Well rope-Mediterranean the two arms done, Carmel!) The lusty rendition ASSEDIL: Ass ociation Européene could well be ASSEDIL and of Lead Me O Thou Great Re - des Di rectors Lasallians RELEM. It is for us to take up the deemer by the assembled heads of The Association of challenge and roll up our shirt- Europe was a memorable thing in - European Headteachers sleeves. deed.

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 35 Being Lasallian Today Report on the Lenten Lasallian Days

Br Ben Foy Br Ralph

For the first time the two Lenten Lasallian Days, in St – and for which Ofsted with their focus on targets and Helens and in Clayton Court, were opened up to the like criticised them. He insisted that Lasallian val - Lasallian Associates. Although there were not many ues were needed now in schools as much as they Associates present, their presence had a powerful and ever had been since the days of De La Salle. positive impact on all – Brothers and Associates – who did attend. Those who attended the days greatly enjoyed the celebrations of Mass and of a meal together. They In St Helens, Anne-Marie Harrison, Chaplain of De La also appreciated the time to be able to share in Salle School, St Helens, spoke about the importance smaller groups something of their own joys as Lasal - of the international aspect of being Lasallian. Br Ralph lians today. Friendship, community, cooperation, and Loftus spoke reflectively and wittily about the changes sharing of spirituality were some of the key factors in his life as a Brother and which were identified as the particular joy of com - important and valued in munity and collaboration being a Lasallian today. with others in his present ministry, without having the Both days finished with Br responsibility of having to Aidan giving an inspiring be “in charge”. Br James presentation about the way Connolly stepped in at the we need to be working to - last moment – following the gether in the future. He dreaded “Friday Ofsted was able to respond to call” which prevented our questions and clarifications other speaker, Barry O’Sul - which were sought. His livan, from attending. presentation was much ap - James spoke eloquently preciated by everyone. about the importance of Aidan’s Power Point pres - Anne-Marie Harrison, seated in the middle, community and ministry in entation, ‘ District Vision, ’ is spoke at the St. Helens meeting his life. now available on the web - site,delasalle.org.uk, and At Clayton Court, Br Joseph O’Keefe spoke very per - can be downloaded from the ‘News’ page. sonally about his life story and his journey now in Clayton Court walking with Brothers towards God. A The next Lasallian Days – to which all are invited – whole squad of speakers from LAMB gave an elo - will be:- quent and illustrated presentation about being Lasal - Sunday October 25 th 2009 at St Helens. lians today and being grateful for the acorns and new Sunday November 1 st 2009 at Clayton Court. life which the Brothers were facilitating in the Bristol area. Having recovered from Ofsted, Barry O’Sullivan Both these days will include Mass and it is hoped that spoke from his wide experience as ex-Kintbury, LACE the change to Sunday might make it easier for many participant and Formation Council member. Barry also more Lasallian Associates to be present. Please in - has experience of the Australian Formation set-up form Br Benedict Foy if you intend to be there. and reflected on how much the Lasallian values of re - Email: [email protected] or Tel: 07968 529 559. lationships with students were enshrined in his school

36 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 A BROTHER BEATIFIED IN MADAGASCAR Brother Rafael-Louis Rafiringa: 1856-1919

Dear Lasallians,

It is with great joy that I give you the good news that on Trinity Sunday, 7 June 2009, Brother Rafael-Louis Rafiringa will be beatified in a ceremony in Antananarivo, Madagascar. It is sig - nificant that the beatification will take place on Trinity Sunday because of its importance in the life of the Founder and it being the day of the Brothers’ renewal of vows.

Brother Rafael was exceptionally talented and effective as an educator, a catechist and leader. During a time when French foreign missionaries were expelled from the country, Brother Rafael was chosen as the President of the Catholic Union for all Madagascar, effectively running the Church during the pe - riod of great opposition. He suffered imprisonment on false charges, yet held strongly to his faith and his vocation. Br Rafael-Louis Rafiringa

Most importantly, we celebrate that Brother Rafael was a man of God. He was a convert to Christianity from his native reli - gion, becoming a Brother who worked arduously teaching, working with the poor, writing books and composing poems and music. Blessed Rafael-Louis Rafiringa is a model not only for Madagascar but for the whole Institute and the Church.

It is with joy that we can say: “Blessed Rafael-Louis Rafiringa, pray for us.”

Fraternally in St. La Salle LINKS A pamphlet detailing his life can be found at:

Brother Alvaro Rodriguez Escheverria FSC www.lasalle.org Superior Genera l

This beatification will bring to 77 the number of Brothers who have been beatified, and a further 12 Brothers are canonised saints, standing alongside St John Baptist De La Salle. Articles on these 89 Brothers (individually or in groups) will appear in successive editions of The Lasallian.

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 37 Ideas for an End of Term Service

AT THE END OF THE SCHOOL TERM

Loving Father, as we come to the end of another term we turn to you in confidence and place any difficult relationships into the healing hands of Jesus, your Son.

Enable us to leave behind any pain of the past and any regrets or bitterness, St. John Baptist De La Salle was inspired entrusting the past to your mercy, by Jesus. He also believed that an indi - the present to your love, vidual could do amazing things. He went and the future to your providence. against the culture and attitudes of his own time, believing that all people - not Help us appreciate more just the wealthy - should be given the the need to keep a good balance chance to shape their own future in our lives. through education. They could then go on to change the world for others - not May the holiday be for us an easy task but not impossible. a time of rest and recreation to help restore us Today we thank God for St. John Baptist and re create us De La Salle and his vision for the future in your image and likeness, that includes every person here. as we enjoy more of the love and presence of our families.

We ask your blessing on them From: De La Salle School, Liverpool, and on all who are a part of our lives. Founder’s Day Mass Booklet Amen.

The above prayer is from the supplement to Volume 2 of Praying Each Day of the Year by Nicholas Hutchinson FSC (Matthew James Publish - ing) www.matthew-james.co.uk

38 |The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 Publications

John Baptist De La Salle The Lasallian Charism Restorative Justice by J. B. Midgley Lasallian Studies No. 13 by Fran Wright & R. Humphreys

Barry Midgley, a retired Head - ‘Charism’ is a gift from God that Restorative Justice was developed teacher and keen Lasallian, is the needs discovering, understanding, in Australia as a more satisfactory author of this booklet. He has living and sharing. This book, ori - alternative to the punitive approach managed in the space of sixty ginally published in English in of Western models of justice and short pages to give an excellent 2006, and now available on the in - punishment. It has had demon - potted history of St John Baptist De ternet as a free down-loadable pdf, strable benefits in both less formal La Salle. Not only all the salient helps us to come to a deeper un - and more formal contexts. Many historical facts are covered but he derstanding of this concept. schools are now using this ap - manages to convey the motivating proach. force behind John Baptist De La This book was written by experts Salle’s drive to educate young peo - from around the world. It explores Fran Wright and Rob Humphreys ple. the concept of ‘charism’ first from have used their experiences as the perspective of the semantic youth workers to give a practical For anyone who wants a brief un - field, as well as from the perspec - approach to restorative interven - derstanding of John Baptist De La tive of the Bible and Church. The tions and to illustrate the impact Salle’s spirituality, method of bulk of the book covers, as the title that a restorative justice approach prayer, and practical attitude to suggests, how the understanding has on young people. This afford - teaching, as illustrated in his ‘mas - of ‘charism’ has evolved in the able book is a very good introduc - terpiece’, the Conduct of Schools, minds of Lasallians. Towards the tion to restorative justice and gives then this is an excellent introduc - end of the book eight Lasallians clear and practical examples for tion. give their witness of what it means those working with youth. to them to be a Lasallian today: a Barry’s final chapter in the book wonderful practical example of Fran is known to many Lasallians brings us right up-to-date, looking how ‘the lived Lasallian Charism is as she is a former Kintbury volun - at his legacy and even mentioning achieved’. On page 10 of this ma - teer and is a member of the Dis - the Beatification of Brother gazine we have reproduced and trict’s Vocations’ Commission. Raphael that will happen this year up-dated one of these witness in Madagascar (see page 37). statements .

Price: £1.95 A link to the pdf version of this Price: £3.50 ISBN 978 1 86082 547 7 book can be found on the Lasallian From: Grove Books Ltd., Ridley Published by: CTS Family (GB) Website: Hall Road, Cambridge, CB3 9HU. Website: www.cts-online.org.uk www.delasalle.org.uk/publications.htm Tel: 01223 464 748

The Lasallian - Summer / Autumn 2009 | 39 De La Salle Brothers

An educational heritage of more than 300 years that ranges from schools for street-kids to great universities in over 80 countries

FAITH SERVICE COMMUNITY

“People are hungry, especially the The Brothers have “demonstrated “Union in a community is a young. They are hungry for God permanency by providing for over precious gem, which is why Our and you are here to satisfy that three centuries an astonishing Lord so often recommended it to hunger. Be faithful to the great array of activities from the most his apostles before he died. If we gift that God made you to be basic literacy learning to the most lose this, we lose everything. teachers, educators, light: his complicated technological learn - Preserve it with care, therefore, light in the world among young ing for both young people and if you want your community to people. The future of the world adults ... so that they can be fully survive.” depends on what you do.” integrated into community and society”.

Mother Teresa United Nations St. John Baptist De La Salle speaking to the De La Salle Brothers UNESCO Noma Award Patron of Teachers

Are you a single Catholic man who is looking for something “more” in your life?

Are you interested in teaching, serious about prayer, and open to a life in common?

Consider joining the largest group of lay religious men in the Catholic Church dedicated exclusively to education, in the steps of St. John Baptist De La Salle, the Patron Saint of Teachers.

Director of Vocations in Malta: Brother Saviour: [email protected]

Director of Vocations in Britain: Brother Ben Foy: [email protected]

www.delasalle.org.uk

LIVE SIMPLY - PRAY DEEPLY - TEACH PASSIONATELY