ISSUE 18

MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 Lasallians Without Limits,working for a hopeful future.

Of course, the eight richest men in the It is gratifying to report that our Lasallian world own as much wealth as the poorest schools and works are making genuine half of humanity, as Oxfam has reported. differences in the lives of the children, But consider the following. men and women entrusted to our care, and with whom we share the journey. According to World Bank figures, on any Irrespective of whether it’s the Remote given day, the number of people living Schools’ Project in some of the poorest in extreme poverty drops by 250,000. parts of PNG, or Br Bill Firman’s continuing Or since 1990, “… more than 100 million great work in South Sudan, or Br Peter children’s lives have been saved through Bray and his team providing educational vaccinations, breast-feeding promotion, opportunities at Bethlehem University, or Dear Lasallians, diarrhoea treatment and more”, wrote Tracy Adams’ yourtown teams working Nicholas Kristof in The New York Times. with our own marginalised people, it is The incredible sadness surrounding the Kristof noted that when he began pleasing to say that as Lasallians, we are Manchester attack has again raised the reporting on global poverty in the 1980s, making a difference. As Pope Francis has ugly spectre of the insecurity of the “… more than 40% of all humans were written: “We are called to live not as one world in which we live. The tragic loss of living in extreme poverty. Now fewer than without others, above or against others, innocent lives is heartbreaking. The recent 10% are. By 2030 it looks as if just 3 or 4% but with and for others”. ABC Four Corners’ program on the Lindt will be”. siege in reminded us that we This Journal records any number of also share in that pain. The ongoing and Similarly, empowering and educating activities which evidence Lasallians awful saga around ’s treatment girls and women and reducing illiteracy living with and for others throughout our of refugees also contains its own continues apace. Kristof again: “Until the District. I encourage you to continue to be sadness, while around the globe, there 1960s, a majority of humans had always that change in the world. are continuing and countless stories of been illiterate; now, 85% of adults are mankind’s inhumanity. literate. And almost nothing makes more Live Jesus in our hearts. difference in a society than being able to A recurring issue is that of leadership, or read and write”. Merv McCormack rather, the lack thereof. Whether one looks Executive Director of locally or internationally, the examples Along with a number of Australian Lasallian Mission Council (LMC) of poor guidance and governance colleagues, I recently went to PNG at the abound. Leading this miserable parade end of May. is the master self-serving huckster, the narcissistic manipulator of invincible ignorance who currently lives at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, Washington, or as The Washington Post described him: “... the liar in chief… who targets the darkness, anger and insecurity that hide in each of us.”

By comparison is Pope Francis, the most credible and respected world leader of our times, (although some in the Curia rather disagree). This is the Pope for whom the Church has called for years, a man who possesses “…abundant virtue and wisdom, and who is clearly a man of the people”, as Andrew Harrer wrote this week in Vanity Fair. The same Pope about whom some of my non-Catholic friends respectfully spoke while sharing a few beers at a recent BBQ! (Now, that was a new experience… non- Catholic friends wanting to talk about the Pope!).

And yet, while there’s some sense that things are falling apart, maybe not. Of course, the bloodshed in the Middle East, Africa and beyond is appalling. Of course, the number of trafficked women, and Students from Jubilee Catholic Secondary School pictured with indentured slaves (including children) is Operations Manager of Lasallian Mission Council, Julie Alibrandi on a recent trip to PNG. counted in the tens of millions. 1 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 Committed Lasallian: Principal Joyce Smith

Number of years as a teacher and Career highlights? Principal? There are so many, it’s difficult to choose. I have been a teacher in Catholic schools I think the best highlights are the days for over 25 years. This is my first year as when you see the look of joy on a Principal at La Salle Academy, Lithgow. student’s face when they realise they have finally mastered a complex skill or problem What inspired and motivated or are standing on stage, bowing to applause after weeks of rehearsal. Another you to become involved in highlight was the day I first met the education? students and staff of La Salle Academy. The school felt like home, straight away. My motivation to be a teacher came from other teachers, who inspired me Hopes and aspirations for and supported my love of learning. I really started my career in my late teens, La Salle Academy, Lithgow? by teaching piano to children. Those beautiful experiences really confirmed I hope that the school continues to thrive that education was the direction I should and grow as a community, both spiritually follow. Teaching in Catholic schools is and academically. I also hope that every an extra bonus, as I am able to teach La Salle student can look back on their and share my faith with students and high school years with fond and happy colleagues every day. The best thing about memories and with an appreciation of the teaching is that students energise me excellent education they received when and I actually learn something from them, they were a student at our school. every day. Young people have amazing vision and an interesting way of looking at the world. They challenge me to keep myself open to all possibilities.

The Young Lasallian team from Lasallian Youth Ministry Coordinator Jordan Reaching Beyond our Mission Services, delivered yet another Bottalico, Youth Minister’s Sebastian successful Confirmation Retreat program Duhau, Jake Wedesweiler and Holly at Our Lady of Fatima Primary School in Johnston. Lasallian Caringbah, for an enthusiastic group of Year 6 students. Also on hand were a number of Year 11 and 12 students from De La Salle College Schools Launched in 2016, Receive the Power Cronulla, who helped to facilitate the day, has fast become an innovative program adding to the overall success of the retreat aimed at preparing students for their and relevance for the younger students. Confirmation Day while helping to strengthen ties between Lasallian youth Local parishes and primary schools have ministry, local schools and parishes. praised the team for the tailored program that is widely accessible and delivered at “It’s a great opportunity to reach beyond the student level, creating total immersion our Lasallian schools and offer a positive in the content and activities. experience for students as they prepare for their first Confirmation,” explained Ministry Coordinator Jordan Bottalico. For more information please contact our Young Lasallian team to learn more With a keen flair for role play and about the tailored retreats on offer teamwork, the group of 94 Year 6 (02) 9795 6464 or email students happily engaged in the activities [email protected] and discussions led by Youth Ministry Coordinator Philippe Dulawan, Assistant

2 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 Committed Lasallian: Principal Joyce Smith Young Lasallians evening with Br David Hawke

On Tuesday May 9th, over 80 attendees from across all eight Lasallian Sydney schools packed the function room at the Australian Catholic University’s Strathfield Campus. This was the third successful Young Lasallians evening held with Br Visitor David Hawke after the inaugural Q & A style format held in March at St James College, Melbourne.

In attendance were a number of senior students, teachers, Principals, Lasallian facilitators and Youth Ministers from across all eight schools. The evening Br David Hawke pictured with students from De La Salle Cronulla and Youth Ministry hosted by the Young Lasallian Team from Coordinator from Lasallian Mission Council, Philippe Dulawan. Lasallian Mission Council, kicked off with pizza and carrot sticks and cucumbers for the health conscious.

The diversity of teachers and students from all Lasallian schools created quite the atmospheric buzz.

Br David told the group; “There really is a wonderful energy and enthusiasm in the room and to see the manner in which you all represent your schools and how you present yourselves, is really great to see.”

Students happily mingled and engaged in animated discussions and confidently explored a variety of current day issues, not shying away from asking the introspective questions about community, service and the life commitment to vocation.

In attendance were a number of senior students and Youth Ministers from across all When asked what led him into the life of eight Lasallian schools. a De La Salle Bother, Br David answered the question openly and honestly. “That’s a good question. I was taught in New Zealand by the and their work and what they did had a tremendous impact on me.

The Young Lasallian Team are super excited (as they always are) to continue bringing the Lasallian community together and spread the good word about Youth Formation opportunities.

“The format of the evening is based on the success of the initial evening gathering event held in 2016 with the Superior General Br. Robert Schieler and Br. David Hawke at Casimir Catholic College in Marrickville.”

That program was so well received that we felt it was important to continue bringing the Lasallian community together. These events also empower students by giving them the opportunity to hear more about the mission and consider how they Lasallian Facilitator, Bryce Forrest and senior students from De La Salle Caringbah can play an active role in their school with Br David Hawke. communities,” explained Assistant Director of Formation, Amanda Proulx.

3 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 Pictured top left: Richie Leilua, Youth Minister from Oakhill College, Br Pat McCarthy, Philippe Dulawan, Jordan Bottalico and Sebastian Duhau. Front row: Damian Khoury, Southern Cross Catholic College, Scarborough QLD, Stefanie Breda, La Salle College Bankstown and Elias Bounader Holy Spirit Catholic College, Lakemba.

Br Pat McCarthy, a man passionate about The Melbourne-born Brother worked education and psychology, is well known in senior roles at De La Salle College at Committed for his knowledge and experience as a Malvern, O’Connor Catholic College in counsellor in Australia and abroad. Armidale and Oakhill College in Castle Lasallian: Hill. However, he never gained the same The Young Lasallian Team from Lasallian satisfaction from administration roles Mission Council, invited Br Pat to share as he did from working directly with A chat with Br Pat his wealth of knowledge and expertise students in the classroom, especially those through a series of Professional experiencing psychological problems. Development resources, focused on assisting Youth Ministers (YMs) working in “For Youth Ministers it’s about being able schools. to be a good listener. In their line of work they do come across students who want A chat with Br Pat, is an initiative to talk about their personal struggles or developed by Youth Ministers Jordan often encounter students who come from Bottalico and Damian Khoury after hearing troubled backgrounds,” explained Br Pat. an unforgettable presentation by Br Pat himself at a Youth Ministry Formation The diversity of topics presented offer event last January. some insights into: how to determine the potential warning signs of abuse; The interactive one-hour sessions are advice on working with victims and held once a month at the De La Salle offenders of bullying; when to refer Provincial Office, covering a range of a student for external help; gender issues YMs encounter on a daily basis. discussions and ways on how to deal Known as the first-ever appointed Director with varying emotional states; what to of Counselling for Kids Helpline in 1991, Br do when you can’t empathise and how to Pat not only shares his clinical expertise practice empathy; and suicide prevention but also offers pastoral care and spiritual techniques and ways to handle a personal advice YMs can tap into as a practical and disclosure. valuable resource. Sessions with Br Pat run the last “I developed a great interest in Wednesday of every month from now psychology early on in my teaching until November 2017. All YMs are welcome career. We started up something called a to attend or connect through Skype. ‘Youth Retreat’ program back in the days Information is sent out by the Young when coeducational Catholic schools Lasallian Team prior to the session. didn’t exist. Observing group dynamics was what peaked my interest on how to For more information about these use groups to facilitate learning in an sessions, please contact Amanda Proulx, education context,” said Br Pat. Assistant Director of Formation [email protected]

4 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 Lasallian Heritage program, Lithgow Aotearoa New Zealand By Anna Zsigovits-Mace, welcome the Director of Religious Studies, HoD RST.

Young Lasallian On Thursday 27th April a group of participants and presenters gathered It was wonderful having our Brother Team together in the Chapel at Francis Visitor, Brother David with us as he Douglas Memorial College to begin their spoke about our District and all that is adventure into the life of John Baptist happening in the Lasallian World.. Lithgow may have greeted Youth De La Salle with prayer. There were Brother David and Brother Lewis Ministry Coordinators Philippe Dulawan participants from De La Salle, Mangere, willingly and openly answered the many and Sebastian Duhau with a frosty John Paul College in Rotorua and seven questions we asked of them. autumn welcome, but it was the warmth from Francis Douglas Memorial College of an animated group of Young Lasallian New Plymouth. Finally, Brother Lewis introduced us to students from La Salle Academy in the Twelve Virtues for teachers and we Lithgow, which proved to be quite Presenters were Brother David Hawke, looked at our own practice within our uplifting. Brother Lewis Harwood and three Lasallian Schools from the perspective Buttimer graduates from FDMC, Martin of our own mission. It was lovely to The Lasallian zeal was infectious over Chamberlain, Tim Stuck and Anna have amongst our group those with the course of the two-day Year 11 and Zsigovits-Mace. responsibilities in our schools other than 12 Retreat, so much so that the Young teaching. Lasallian Team from Lasallian Mission The purpose of the program was to Council, came away inspired by the introduce new teachers to our Lasallian We had a Teacher’s Aide, a Property group of Lithgow students who showed schools in New Zealand, the founding Manager and a Youth Minister. A excellent engagement with the program story and core values of the Lasallian wonderful gathering together and by content. charism. Over the two days, we covered association. We are all partners in the the life of De La Salle, including those holistic development of the students The group’s enthusiasm and approach key moments that were pivotal to the who walk through our doors each day to participating in the activities were development of the Lasallian Mission of the school year. evident during the year 11 Retreat when today. We investigated how we can witnessing some of the most impressive bring the Conduct of the Schools Our aim moving into the future is to displays of teamwork and leadership alive in the Twenty-First Century and provide a quality formation programme skills. Students constructed newspaper we marvelled at the relationships we that continues to support our Lasallian towers that would have made the could see between De La Salle and his educators in New Zealand and that engineers of the Eiffel tower proud Brothers through the Letters he wrote so promotes the vocation of teaching (or jealous) and with only the aid of prolifically. associates and partners. newspaper and sticky tape.

The year 12 Retreat program provided students the opportunity to immerse in the program and impressing Youth In early May, the NZ Prime Minister, Minister’s Philippe and Sebastian with New Zealand PM visits Bill English, visited De La Salle College their thoughtful engagement on the Mangere East in New Zealand and spoke reflective activities of the day. De La Salle College, at the College assembly. It was a very warm and inspirational gathering. Commenting on what made the Lithgow Mangere East Retreats so enjoyable, Philippe said: The PM clearly resonated at a deep level with the students, since he was able “Seeing a genuine display of to relate some of the setbacks he has authenticity and care for one another, had in his life being the 10th child in the going out of their way to include family of 12. students who might have needed some extra help and support was really quite He was very upfront about his religious remarkable. This is why we do what we upbringing and the fact that life does do.” not always come served and it’s only when one is able to pick one self-up “All students displayed a true sense of after setbacks that success ultimately inclusion and respect for themselves emerges. The ceremony was formal, yet and their peers,” concluded Sebastian. very touching for all concerned.

5 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 “A religious vocation is a mystery in so many ways and I am sure that I speak JUBILARIANS 2017 for all the Jubilarians when I say that our reason for joining the Brothers has changed over the years. Our early * GOLDEN * DIAMOND * PLATINUM intentions were perhaps a tad idealistic, but a life well-lived changes everything DLS BROTHERS and I am sure that none of us would want A special mention was made of the late Br it any other way. CELEBRATE Michael Fitzgerald who passed away on THE GIFT OF VOCATION May 4. He was acknowledged for his 62 We joined a group of men whose focus years of dedicated service as a De La Salle was God and whose aspiration was to Brother, as well as for his preparation of serve young people in the best way they Sunday 14th May, and there wasn’t an the Mass handbook. could, and that became our mission in empty pew as Brothers, family, friends life,” concluded Br Paul. and colleagues gathered in the Chapel Golden Jubilarian, Br Paul Rogers said: of St John Baptist De La Salle at Oakhill “The Golden Jubilarians have served “The gift of vocation was not given to us College, Castle Hill before a congregation under nine Visitors and all of them have all because we were better than others or of 153 people, thirteen DLS Brothers a place in our memory bank. All have because we deserved it. It was a gift that commemorated their lives of commitment played a role in helping us develop, grow God made so that, with the same gratuity to the mission, as they celebrated Golden, and contribute to our capacities. Special and the same love, we can put it to the Diamond or Platinum Jubilees. mention should be made of our current service of the whole community, and Visitor, Br David, whose idea it was to especially young people.” Between them, the Jubilarians have given celebrate the Jubilees all together as a Pope Francis (quoted at a General 730 years of Lasallian service, spanning true celebration of our District.” Assembly, October 2014). from South Africa, United States, Vietnam, Singapore, Sri Lanka, PNG, New Zealand Brothers, family, friends and colleagues Celebrating 70, 60 & 50 years and Australia. The Eucharistic celebration travelled far and wide to attend the of extraordinary commitment was led by Principal Celebrant, Father Brian celebration. Br Christian Moe, who is in Vale SSC, with the opening address given his 96th year, travelled from Melbourne to by Br Visitor, David Hawke. be with the Jubilarians. Br Chris was the Platinum (70 Years) Jubilarians’ first teacher in Scripture when Br Br Celestine Gavin fsc The Homily was followed by a renewal of they commenced their vocation 50 years Br Br Michael Lynch fsc vows for the Brothers, continuing their ago. Br Br Peter McIntosh fsc promise of service and education for the Br Br Thomas Normoyle fsc poor. Br Br Gerard Rummery fsc Br Br Hilary Walsh fsc

Diamond (60 Years) Br Malachy Yates fsc

Golden (50 Years) Br Br Garry Coyte fsc Br Br Kenneth Ormerod fsc Br Br Paul Rogers fsc Br Br Adrian Watson fsc Br Br Benilde Tin fsc

Br Lewis Harwood presenting the Golden Jubilarians at the renewal of vows ceremony. Pictured from L-R: Brothers Benilde Tin, Paul Rogers, Br Kenneth Ormerod, Adrian Watson and Garry Coyte.

Golden Jubilarian Br Paul Rogers Jubilarians were honoured at Oakhill College Chapel followed by a reception at Castle Hill. and Br Visitor, David Hawke.

6 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 From left – right: Golden Jubilarians Br Adrian Watson Br Benilde Tin Br David Hawke and Br Michael Lynch

Brothers Normandy Dujunco, Benildus Larkin , David Zande and Philip Elwin.

Br Peter McIntosh and Br David Hawke.

Jubilarian, Br Hilary and Br David Br Kenneth Ormerod Hawke. Br Malachy Yates and Br David Hawke.

Rev Brain Vale and Br Ramond Khan. Jubilarian Br Garry Coyte. Br Gerard Rummery and Br David Hawke.

7 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 Committed Lasallian: Tribute to Brother Michael Fitzgerald By Br Peter McIntosh F.S.C on 12 May 2017

Br Michael Fitzgerald was affectionately Michael was the second son in a family successful football coach and had success known as “Mick Fitz” by his confreres in the of six children, four boys and two girls every year with his teams in the Rugby De La Salle community which was his family born to Michael and Ella Fitzgerald of League school competitions. for more than sixty years. Dubbo. He had his early education with After eight years his proficiency in working the Brothers in Dubbo before coming with junior students was recognised and As the Brothers of Foley Place gathered to the De La Salle Training College and he was appointed to De La Salle College on the evening following his death to pay gaining his Leaving Certificate in 1954. Armidale where he was given responsibility tribute to a departed brother, the words He completed his religious and teacher for the junior boarders. Michael was able to that constantly recurred highlighted his training at Castle Hill before commencing relate to the many young men who came generosity and the many talents which he his teaching career. from farming properties in the Northwest, generously shared with his brothers, his as he had grown up on the family property many friends and above all his students. Michael was first and foremost a De La outside Dubbo. He took the opportunity His religious fidelity was obvious to all and Salle Brother and an excellent teacher to visit the students and their parents his great love for his De La Salle family was who began his teaching career in 1959 on their properties and hence gain an paramount in his life. He was particularly when he was assigned to the community understanding of the problems of young happy in his later years to share with the at Bankstown. students living away from home and family. community the skills and expertise he had gained in the area of Technology and He worked with the primary students and After four years at Armidale he was Design and especially so if the material one of his students in those years was the asked to return to the city and once furthered the Lasallian apostolate. TV presenter, Michael Bailey. He was also a again work with junior boarders at Oakhill College where he was to spend the next Michael was a Brother, teacher, catechist, twenty-five years of his apostolate in the artist, craftsman, cook, designer, classroom with some breaks for further photographer, IT specialist, gardener, study and spiritual renewal. mechanic and overall your typical Mr Fixit. We have lived in the same house for more His teaching had taken a turn that enabled than seven years and he saw to it that I did him to focus on an artistic career and he not go without a meal if the cook was on was able to develop his artistic talents and holidays. I am sure you can see that I have in a larger College specialise in his chosen been really well fed. I wonder now who will area of Art, Technics and Pottery. He was fix my computer or see that the lights work fortunate in being able to join Brother and the TV will be available, that the taps Tom Normoyle and Br Amedy Molloy who do not leak and that there are flowers in the were working in this area in the adjacent garden. Teachers’ College. Many free hours were spent in the Pottery department of the He was only happy when he had a task College. Michael became a proficient to complete and especially so if it was Potter and this group of Brothers became for someone else. I really believe that in known for their expertise in this area, and the last few months when his sickness each year displayed their work which was deprived him of his ability to serve others, offered for sale to the general public. he was completely lost and felt that he had nothing more to contribute and hence Br Michael became quite proficient in it was time to move on. He did confide to his chosen area of Art/Technics and the one of the communities that he was ready Pottery department expanded in the to go. I felt that although he was still on his junior secondary school. It was about feet and was able to attend Mass with us this time that I asked him to assume at Marymount on his last two days in the responsibility as Head of the Junior community he was getting ready to go. Secondary department of the College and

8 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 he accepted this role while continuing of Special Religious Education in the his teaching in his specialist area. When parishes of Narooma, North Richmond it was decided to expand the Technics and Castle Hill. In recent years at Castle area to include Woodwork, Metal Work Hill, his advice was frequently sought and Design, Michael was given time to and he was often requested to help complete University studies in Design and beginning teachers or to take extra classes Technology in Adelaide in 1982. if teachers were not available. Michael Michael returned to Oakhill College the continued this work up until a few weeks following year where new facilities allowed ago when classes finished for the Term for further expansion of the curriculum in holidays. his chosen area of Design and Technology. He was responsible for helping to develop He was a true Lasallian and touched many this new Department where he worked hearts including the students to whom successfully with Senior students who he taught Religious Education in the local were now able to continue studies for the State schools. There is a large group of Higher School Certificate. students now attending Oakhill College to whom he had taught Special Religious This was probably the most satisfying Education in the State schools. It was so and fulfilling period of his teaching career good to see them in their numbers at the where he was fully taken up with the Service for Michael in the College Chapel work he loved in Technical and Applied In his retirement, he was happy to share last Wednesday. Studies and where he also developed his his talents in the area of Design and he skills in Computer Design. The period was completed work for the PNG mission in Michael enjoyed the simple things in life interrupted when he was given sabbatical the production of Award certificates and and won many friends through his simple leave and travelled oversea to undertake Diplomas. interests and through his loyalty and the Renewal program at Sangre de Cristo, generosity to others - his helping hand New Mexico. He travelled in the USA and He worked with Br Gerard Rummery in was always available to those in need. It also in Europe where he was able to visit designing the Poster on the Founder’s was this noble and generous heart that the places of significance in the life of St “Twelve Virtues of the Good Teacher” finally gave up. John Baptist de la Salle and the Mother which is being used in Lasallian schools House in Rome. both here and overseas. The logos he The prophet tells us, designed were used in a number of our “Those who are wise will shine brightly Michael returned to his work at Oakhill Lasallian publications, and on his own as the expanse of the heavens, and those until the end of 1997 when he could boast business cards where he operated as who instruct others unto justice will shine of having completed twenty- five years “MICKFITZDESIGNS”. He designed his as stars for all eternity.” at Oakhill College. He was now asked to own Christmas cards and cards for special leave his classes and accept responsibility occasions. I am sure that Mick’s star will always shine as Director of the community at the brightly. Farewell, my friend, it has been a Lasallian Centre in Narooma. He continued As a devoted educator he saw an privilege to have walked with you. in this role until the community closed opportunity to continue his work of and he moved to the San Miguel Centre teaching young people in the State May you now rest in peace with the Lord, at North Richmond where he could Schools, and he joined the parish whom you served so well. contemplate retirement. Catechists involved in the teaching

CELEBRATIONS FOR THE FOUNDER Message from the Brother Superior General Br Robert Schieler Signs of life are everywhere!

On this feast of Saint John Baptist of a variety of vocational expressions: fish and gave them to his disciples de La Salle, I recall the decision by Lasallian Partners and Associates, Lasallian to set before the crowd. They all ate the capitulants to the 45th General Volunteers, lay women, men and Brothers and were satisfied (Lk 9. 10-17). Jesus Chapter to designate 2019 as the Year of sharing community life, and young men challenged the disciples to move beyond Lasallian Vocations. That decision was continuing to respond to the Spirit’s a preoccupation with what they were the culmination of a journey begun four invitation to live as Brothers of the Christian lacking in the awareness of what they decades ago when 11 women and men Schools. had. consecrated themselves as Signum Fidei members before the relics of the Founder When Jesus’s disciples were unable We are called to read the signs of our and in the presence of the Superior to imagine how to provide for the five times with the eyes that Jesus urges the General. thousand, Jesus said, “Give them some disciples to use and to see abundance food yourselves.” They replied, “Five rather than scarcity. Rather than focus A new way of living the Lasallian vocation loaves and two fish are all that we have on signs of diminishment, let us rejoice was born. In the decades since then, unless we ourselves go and buy food for in the signs of re-birth. Let us allow our we have witnessed the appearance all these people.” Seeing what they could imagination to envision a vibrant future! not see, Jesus blessed five loaves and two

9 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 He not only shared the facts and figures Celebrating about the District but made the session Founder’s Week entertaining for all present. He also shared how zealous Lasallians are about their De La Salle work in PNG. Whilst he shared a brief history of the Lasallian mission in PNG, he Bomana,PNG also recalled his first interaction with DLS Bomana in 1980 as a retreat master for By Br Shashi Abrar fsc students. Pakistan give thanks on 18 May 2017 After his talk, there was a Q & A session. on Labour Day The students asked him a couple of questions based on his life as a Brother. By Br Rehman Javed fsc Br. David encouraged students to offer themselves to service and to help others, La Salle Higher Secondary School especially the poor. in Multan Pakistan celebrated International Workers’ Day on May He also encouraged the year 12 students 1st, in appreciation and gratitude for to think of being Lasallian volunteers their lay partners. Brothers gathered where they may give a year of their life for in front of the statue of St. La Salle the Lasallian mission serving in the District to give thanks during a meaningful of ANZPPNG. prayer service. The festivities were enjoyed by all and highly appreciated Br. David also got the opportunity to by all the staff and partners. visit the newly renovated classrooms, By Br Shashi Abrar fsc refurbished by the students and staff Thank you to Brother Waseem of De La Salle Malvern last year. He Shamoun for coordinating such a It is a great tradition in the Sector of was accompanied by Mr. James B. Ume beautiful prayer service and program Papua New Guinea to dedicate a whole (Principal of DLS Bomana), teaching staff of activities. week to Lasallian activities known as and members of the School Infrastructure Founder’s Week. The week starts on May Planning Committee. He was pleased to About: Br Rehman is the Lasallian 15 with the Feast of St. John Baptist de La see how professionally the work had been Youth Minister for Pakistan and Salle. done by the group of students coming teaches at La Salle High School and from Australia every year. College in Faisalabad. De La Salle Secondary School Bomana is one of the first Lasallian schools in PNG to On behalf of the staff and students of be established. On May 16, the staff and DLS Bomana, I wish to thank Br. David for students of DLS Bomana were privileged accepting the invitation to be with us on to have Br. David Hawke, Visitor of Tuesday. They all appreciated his presence ANZPPNG amongst them. Br David spoke and were inspired by his sharing. to them about the Lasallian mission and its importance in the District.

St La Salle, Founders Day Mass

Oakhill College celebrated Founders Day on Friday 12 May. In 1900 St John Baptist de La Salle was canonized as a saint in the Catholic Church and on the 15 May 1950 St La Salle was named Patron Saint of Teachers.

It was wonderful to have a great number of Brothers as part of the celebration for Founders Day. Thank you to our Celebrant Father Harry Kennedy from St Agatha’s Parish, Pennant Hills, and to the Principal of De La Salle College, Ashfield, Mr Stephen Kennaugh, for joining us.

Ms Miranda Chow, CEO of the Lasallian Foundation, addressed the College. At the conclusion of the mass pre-recordings of congratulations from Lasallian schools from around Asia and the Pacific were shown linking Oakhill College to the global celebration of Founders Day, involving 1 million students worldwide.

Pictured L-R: Br Tony Moore, Br Raymond Khan, Br Pat McCarthy, Board Chair of Oakhill College John Puleo, Br The College also expressed gratitude to all Lawrence King, Br William Shaw, Principal of De La Salle College Ashfield, Stephen Kennaugh, Br Michael Neville. the staff who prepared an amazing liturgy Front row: Chief Executive Officer of the Lasallian Foundation Miranda Chow, Br Hilary Walks, Br Peter McIntosh and music, and to the students for their and Principal of Oakhill College, Br Stephen Hogan. reverence and sense of celebration.

10 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017 Lasalle Technical College Hohola and (she says, but it did not show) following Lasallian Volunteer: the Brothers’ Community were pleased in the footsteps of Ria Greene from Answering the Call… to host volunteer, Chantelle Jeffers, for St Bede’s College Mentone, who had By Br Chris Gorringe the two weeks in April leading up to conducted an in-service earlier in the Easter. Chantelle had been looking for an week. On Miranda’s advice Chantelle opportunity to contribute to mission in had brought with her three large a developing country - and the Hohola suitcases of library books and teaching community was only too happy to materials which were gratefully received provide that opportunity! by staff. To the great culinary and dietary In Chantelle’s own words:” For many satisfaction of the Brothers’ community, years I had felt a wish to contribute to Chantelle also gave a daily cooking the mission of an organisation which lesson to Madeleine, the Brothers’ new worked with the poor in a developing housekeeper, leading to a standard in country. As a 16-year-old I had been cooking cakes which would be the envy a member of a Marist REMAR caravel of Masterchef! which visited Wilcannia in far-western NSW. This trip gave me my desire to be LTCH and the whole community record a teacher which I fulfilled by becoming their appreciation to Chantelle and their a Catholic Primary School teacher in hope that she will return, no longer as Warragul, , where I had attended a “random”, but as a valued member of school myself and the inspiration to our Lasallian community. contribute to the education of those really in need. About: Br Chris Gorringe, Auxiliary Visitor and Chair of Lasallian Mission “Where there’s a wish and Google Council (LMC). there’s a way! And Google led me to the Lasallian Foundation and a series of Lasallian Mission Council encourages conversations with Miranda Chow, CEO teachers, support staff and alumni and ultimately to LTCH and the Hohola involvement in our volunteer programs Brothers’ community. And I have enjoyed to PNG and Pakistan. every aspect of the experience.” Please contact Miranda Chow CEO of In addition to teaching a number of Lasallian Foundation or Merv classes, Chantelle led an in-service for McCormack,Executive Director of LMC. teachers on Lesson Planning nervously

now yourtown; the Lasallian Foundation; Transfer of Membership The transfer of membership is a and the four Colleges. On 21st December, confirmation of the strengthening 2005 the Trustees incorporated St St Michael’s College relationship between LMC and the Michael’s, the first of the Colleges to have District’s incorporated works. In Adelaide on Thursday 25 May, a done so, and a Board of Directors was historic event took place in the District appointed. In 2012, the District Chapter Br David noted that, “The signing of the of Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan and approved the transfer of membership of MOU begins yet another chapter in the Papua New Guinea (ANZPPNG) with the these works from the Trustees to the LMC. governance of Institute-owned schools transfer of Membership of St Michael’s in Australia. In 1991 when Br Paul Rogers College by the Trustees to the Lasallian In recent months, a restructure of the was Principal, an Advisory Board was Mission Council (LMC). LMC Directors has occurred as it prepares established at the College with the late to assume additional responsibilities in Jenny Bourne as Chair. Our opening song St Michael’s is the first of the District’s De the District. Merv McCormack, Executive reminded us that ‘we are standing on La Salle works to be transferred to the Director of LMC said, “The process that the shoulders of those who came before LMC. has led to the transfer of membership has us’. This evening I am very mindful of been a very thorough process Professional, the various former Board Members and Signing the Memorandum of collaborative and transparent in engaging Principals on whose shoulders we stand,” Understanding (MOU) between the all relevant stakeholders and legal explained Br David. Trustees, the LMC, and the St Michael’s advisors,’ concluded Merv. Board, were Marie Dorrington, Chair of St Br David spoke of the 2004 District Michael’s College Board; Br Visitor, David Chapter which approved the incorporation Hawke; and Executive Director of the LMC, of Lasallian works in Australia- BoysTown Merv McCormack.

Br David Hawke, Peter Cartwright, Company Secretary of LMC, Merv McCormack,Executive Director of LMC, the LMC Board of Directors and St Michael’s College Board Directors.

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Q: 2016/17 PNG highlights?

• Superior General’s visit: Middle Swan celebrate April 24th - 27th 2016 Make a Difference Day • General Councillor, Br. Rafael Matas’s visit: August 7th -13th, 2016 On Friday 12 May, La Salle College in • Big Celebration 70 years of Brothers Swan Valley , spent the Presence in PNG - Celebration of day raising money for Make a Difference first arrival of De La Salle Brothers and Day (MAD) to support Life Link, Catholic continuation of the Lasallian mission in Caring Agencies, Lasallian Foundation and PNG for 70 years. St Vincent De Paul. • Twining program success –Teacher Fun and entertainment were the highlights exchange with Peter Smith and Joe Keane from New Zealand. of the day, as 64 Pastoral Care Groups came together to fundraise and be • Lasallians reaching out to most parts of entertained in order to raise money for PNG those in need. The fundamental objective Committed Lasallian for the day was to serve people in need, • Success in building self-esteem in our in the words of John Baptist de La Salle Q & A with students, visible change in confidence “serving the least, lost and last.” and communication skills. Br Antony Swamy, FSC The first event of its kind commenced Years as a Brother: 16 • Lasallian performance is great. in 1963 and is now well and truly an Current position: Director & Principal institution at La Salle College. The day’s La Salle Technical College, Hohola, • Having a new Resident Sector head. activities included handball competitions, Papua New Guinea. Weetbix challenges, hair colouring, photo • Appointment of the Lasallian family booth, Zorb ball, abseiling, a dunking co-ordinator Q: What inspired you to become a machine, book stalls and many more fun Brother? Q: What are some of the Sector filled activities. challenges? When I was in school I came across these Students had the honour of meeting Wild words from my Religion teacher “the most • Promoting and attracting Brothers’ Cat Basketball players Mason Briggs and satisfying thing in life is to have been able Vocation. Dexter Kernich Drew. They took photos to give a large part of oneself to others.” and had their keepsakes autographed by These words still resonate with me, in my • Overcrowded classrooms these talented sportsmen. heart and mind. As a De La Salle Brother, I always give a larger part my life to others • Lack of trained Maths and Science In the afternoon ‘La Salle’s Got Talent’ was especially students, teachers, parents teachers held, offering students a great opportunity and friends. I always treat people, as I to present their hidden talents on stage. • Lack of financial support from would like them to treat me. (“So always The crowd favourite was the Year 12 boys’ Government treat others as you would like them to band ‘The Believers’ and the Judges’ choice was Luke Paxman from Year 7. treat you” Mt. 7:12). This gospel verse is a • Students withdraw from school due to theme for my personal life this year. End personal and family problems of each day in my personal prayer I ask myself, is anybody happier because I have • Teachers aren’t paid on time touched, inspired or passed by his or her way? Q: Hopes for the future of PNG?

As a child, I dreamed of becoming an • Expanding of Lasallian family army officer. I was selected and joined the Army but life changed when I encountered • Providing resources to rural schools the De La Salle Brothers in my village. The Brothers were a source of inspiration and I • Getting Vocations for both Brothers never had a thought to turn back. and Lasallian Partners.

UPCOMING EVENTS NEW ZEALAND 16-19 July: AUSTRALIA Lasallian Global Women’s Symposium – Auckland 9 – 13 July: 18-22 June: Shared Brothers / Partners Retreat Mission Bay CIAMEL 2 - 4 October: 26 June -7 July: Camp La Salle Buttimer, California 16 September: 8- 9 July: Annual NZ Lasallian Gathering Hamilton YM Mid-Year Formation, YHA Sydney 10-14 July: PAKISTAN DE LA SALLEIn BROTHERS the next PROVINCIALissue OFFICE P O Box 3485, Bankstown Square, Lasallian Youth Gathering, De La Salle Ashfield 8 September: 16 -21 September: Induction program for new Lasallian NSW 2200, Australia Brothers Retreat, Mittagong Teachers (Part 2) E: [email protected] 25 – 27 September: 10 – 13th November: To contribute to the newsletter, please Camp La Salle, Melbourne Lasallian Youth Gathering (LYGP2), contact: Marcela Cuevas

24 Sept – Oct 6: Faisalabad Communication Manager Pilgrimage, Italy, France Email : [email protected] 30 October: PNG LG Principal Meeting, St Bede’s 24 April- Friday 30 June Term 2 Monday 17 July - Friday 22 September Term 3 Monday

12 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MAY/JUNE 2017