3 Pr es en ta 9 ti on L B en P r U . M di a ng G n a N ue 1 n I l 1 E N Es In ar E tra te P d I B rv O a nt 2 r. ie , C er 0 Té w O ar v fi T pi ie o A M n w Ra S a te o S C n r u E S y o l A F V T K P , o ra O i o A o T c r H d h es e E e , 2 L F la L O L l a n 7 O a sa e A F ll C 4 S S ia a H o n ll A T c C L a e A P n P . tre r o 2 B f Eg 9 y a B pt r. g Ca in rlo In e s t 3 B G er 1 - . vi l Gó ew g a m in g e r u z a t T h r H s o E P LA s IN S u n A i TH L io E L c n IA e a H N 3 li EA r l R CO 1 p a T M 2 s O 3 A a F M L Be P IT th AL M le B E EN h r. ST T em Pe IN U te E 7 n r B iv ra P er y al si O es ty NE tin TW C e O H O I AR NE N IS M ST M Br I IT , . SS U x 1 Pa IO TE 5 tr N S, 5 ick R Yo B e E u ra k o n d D c f g le N a th L y e as , F U m C a S r o ll C d N i o 1 m an W C 7 m s c u a O In n t D M t it th v e y e r M rv n N H e a ie O ri w ea I M a r S no t S W I a M le nt en I

Intercom 149 - May 2017. De La Salle Brothers – Lasallian Family Magazine. Editor: Br. Alexánder González FSC [email protected] | Editorial coordinator: Ilaria Iadeluca [email protected] | Graphic design: Luigi Cerchi [email protected] | To send articles: [email protected] | Brothers of the Christian Schools – Rome – Communications and Technology Service | www.lasalle.org | Facebook: www.fb.com/lasalleorg - Twitter: @lasalleorg - Instagram: lasalleorg

#SomosLaSalle | #WeAreLaSalle | #NousSommesLaSalle • Our formation programs, both locally and internationally, are an excellent meeting point between the different members of our Lasallian Family in which Brothers, Sisters, Lay Associates and Colleagues share, in diversity, educational itineraries that resentation undoubtedly favor and generate P unity and communion. Br. Rafa Matas, fsc • The presence of Brothers and General Counselor Lasallians who collaborate and [email protected] actively participate in different institutions or organizations Pope Francis affirms that “there is a We have a long tradition - a path working for catholic schools and/or communion of life among all those travelled without having reached a Consecrated Life at local, national who belong to Christ” (October 30, definitive destination. We are still on and international levels. 2013), and he affirms moreover that our way in communion with the • There is also collaboration in many the Holy Spirit “apparently creates Church and with many other of our educational works - at the disorder in the Church because the Charismatic Families. moment hundreds of religious and Spirit produces a diversity of charisms, There are many ways to express our priests are engaged in our works. of gifts, but under His action, all this is “unity in diversity” - the following serve Examples are the joint work with a great richness, because the Holy as an example without pretending to the Daughters of Charity in our two Spirit is the Spirit of unity, which does cover all: educational works in San Francisco not mean uniformity, but bringing at Sacred Heart Cathedral and De everything into harmony. Moreover he • Historically and in many parts of the Marillac Academy; in Thailand with insists,” in the Church, harmony is the world we share formation with the Lasallian Sisters (La Salle College work of the Holy Spirit” because “only other religious institutions. of Bangkok); the Guadalupana He can arouse diversity, plurality, Argentina, ARLEP ... Sisters of La Salle (Casa Hogar de multiplicity and, at the same time, were pioneers in this. Saltillo in Mexico or in the Akassato unity “(19.05.2013). Currently CELAF in school in Benin) as well as the Côte d'Ivoire is The expression “unity in diversity” may different educational works another good seem a contradiction to us, but within of Signum Fidei in Peru example the context of our Institute and the today. whole Lasallian Family, we attempt to live it because we are committed to the “communion” that is the source and fruit of the mission we carry out and which extends to all who are committed to it (cf.R. 18) It is clear that diversity is a reality. Our geographical presence in more than 79 countries involves different cultures, outlooks and sensibilities. This is also reflected in the way of living our charism within the Lasallian Family for more than 50 years. Many Christians, including other religions, who are in contact with the Lasallian charism, make their spiritual itinerary, testify to their faith and share the one educational commitment in communion. are in Turin with the Union of between religious and laity causes of poverty. These plans which Catechists. belonging to the different families include cooperation between born of the new ideas of “( Caminar congregations , develop the • Even at the level of our Residences desde Cristo No. 31) and which has community dimension of educational for Senior Brothers we find this its headquarters in our own works, and encourage the shared practice. For example, in the Generalate. mission to open up more to the service Residence of Laval in Canada in of the poor“ (R 29.1): which, in addition to our Brothers, It was after the 44 th General Chapter there are Religious of other that we made a qualitative change • Solidarity with South Sudan (SSS) congregations like the Brothers of from “what we do together” to “who we is one of the first intense Saint Gabriel or the Benedictine are and what we build together”. In endeavours - an inter- Fathers. addition, our last 45 th General Chapter congregational project in which challenges us to continue walking and more than 260 congregations are, in • The new Formation Guide, which is building “beyond the borders” one way or another, involved. in the process of being developed conscious that “the communion that Among them, 23 live and work based on Proposition 31 of the 45 th consecrated men and women are together in this devastated country GC, seems to proceed in the same called to live goes beyond the religious in 5 mixed communities committed direction: a unique Guide that family or the Institute itself. By opening to forming teachers, health workers, contemplates our diversity and themselves to communion with other pastoral workers and agricultural generates communion. Institutes and other forms of programs, training people enabling The Institute is also involved in two consecration, they can broaden them to advance their own country. projects that express this “unity in communion, discover common It was for our Institute a diversity”: evangelical roots, and together more commitment from the 44 th General • “Tutti Fratelli” which since 2010 clearly welcome the beauty of one's Chapter and from there we are brings together more than 17 own identity in charismatic variety, as going ahead. Our three Brothers are congregations - fundamentally of branches of the one vine. ( Caminar there. desde Cristo no 30). Brothers - to exchange experiences • The Fratelli Project in Lebanon, * and promote common initiatives, In this sense I share here some of our opened another important door. formation, searching ... and who undertakings that are no longer The Marist Brothers and the meet together systematically so as utopias but prophetic realities that Brothers of the Christian Schools are to continue walking as brothers. represent a way of living out what we beginning a new community of • “Charismatic Families” which is express in our own Rule: “Regions and shared life for a mission on the being consolidated as a common Districts draw up plans which enable border with refugee children and space of encounter and impulse all their works to be really committed young people from Syria and Iraq. to helping the poor and combating the At the moment the community is

2 composed of 3 Brothers and • There is a previous personal work in the other as our own. There is no doubt another is preparing to join the members of these communities that joys and sufferings, worries and immediately. We committed of reconciliation with oneself, a events can be shared and become ourselves to this from the “beyond certain maturity, a sufficient those of everyone from the borders” promoted by our 45 th emotional stability and a healthy intercongregational experience and, General Chapter. clarification of personal motivations especially, the way of living ... communion within our own Lasallian • The Community of Loja in Granada Family. (Spain) in which Brothers share • We have our own charism mission and life in a new mixed internalized, identity consolidated United in diversity involves a challenge community formed by 2 Sisters of and the willingness to share it that enriches us and for which we need the Congregation of the Purity of humbly, without arrogance. to continue placing all the Brothers Mary, 2 La Salle Brothers and 2 Lay together with the Associates and the Living in unity from charismatic Lasallians and who live for the entire Lasallian Family. If we follow this diversity helps us to live the Good purpose of welcoming children and way we will find the enthusiasm, the News of Jesus more freely, enriching us, young people having high risk of internal resources and work methods challenging us, making us more social exclusion, the majority being to make it grow in its identity based on humble. We cannot face our future immigrants. respect for diversity, but in communion from a basis of dispersion. We need to with all and between all. From there Undoubtedly the commitment of our be Church, to live together the our Family will enjoy a vitality that will 45 th General Chapter expressed by its adventure of the Spirit and the attract new vocations. Proposal 19 in response to emerging following of Christ, to learn to love the new needs will foster new community and the religious family of opportunities that will allow us to live unity in diversity. Some new projects are already being developed in ARLEP in Cadiz and in RELAL in Brazil. - This same issue of Intercom helps us to know but also to reflect how this Regions diversity living in unity is a fact in our Lasallian reality. Challenges? difficulties? No doubt PARC there are. We do not forget that to live PACIFIC-ASIA REGIONAL CONFERENCE diversity leads us to have to cross “to the other shore” of ourselves and therefore, to overcome “storms”. The RELAF meditative reading of Mark 4: 35-41 RÉGION LASALLIENNE AFRIQUE-MADAGASCAR reminds us of this. However, experience tells us that all kinds of storms are overcome when: RELEM • There is dialogue, openness of mind RÉGION LASALLIENNE EUROPE-MÉDITERRANÉE and heart towards the other. • We “waste” time on knowing RELAL ourselves, on sharing, on praying TA together ... REGIÓN LATINOAMERICANA LASALLIS • We obtain a good formation so as to integrate the difference that RELAN enriches us. LASALLIAN REGION OF NORTH AMERICA

3 a Salle Akassato, Lopening up paths of hope

Br. Paco Fallado, fsc General Director De La Salle Akassato (Bénin) [email protected]

As the Spanish poet Antonio Machado Currently, we have a total of 1,158 generate a feeling of trust among the would say, “As you start to walk, there is pupils, 589 boys 569 girls, of whom 458 families. no path, the path is made as you go benefit from school meals. Our pupils include Catholics, Muslims forward”. La Salle Akassato, is an We are making good progress and the and followers of the traditional religion. educational work which is walking successes in the official exams are In a society which tends to radicalise forward step by step, day by day. proof of the quality of our educational attitudes, we are inclusive and live in We are situated about 15 kilometres work: secondary exams 97% in June harmony. We receive the children of from Cotonú, the economic capital of 2015 and 85% in June 2016; end of labourers, artisans, teachers, doctors Benín. Our village is in the province of primary exams 95%, in June 2016. Our and officials, all side by side, and we Abomey-Calavi. It is a zone in full college has the highest numbers on persist in promoting respect for expansion, and the density of the roll in the area. diversity. There are some cases among population is rapidly increasing. The our pupils which deserve special However, good academic results are original inhabitants are currently mention as examples of educational not the only thing that attracts people becoming the minority in view of the inclusion. Two girls with Down's to our college. Our Lasallian numbers arriving in from the syndrome are given greater individual educational project, involving the surrounding areas. Most people find attention and are educationally whole educational community, creates employment in Cotonú, the capital, or included without any problem. Our a synergy that drives the educational in the town of Calavi. The result is that educational action plan includes work of each and every one. It means our neighbourhood is a “dormitory”, tutorial work for children with learning that the diversity which exists becomes with all that that implies. difficulties and efforts to promote a richness in our work, starting with the inclusion in sporting activities. Our C olegio Católico de La Salle opened leadership team which comprises a its doors on October 1 st , 2011, when Lasallian Guadalupana Sister as head of We continue to progress and to move fifty seven children, boys and girls, the infants section, a lay head of the forward, maintaining our goal to be came to us as we began our work. primary section, a lay head of studies in united in diversity, men and women of From the beginning we have been the secondary section and a De La Salle consensus, building a world that is ready to accept all who ask for a place Brother as Director General. Everybody more human for everybody. Our hopes without distinction. We provide a forges Lasallian links so as to achieve a are being fulfilled and we shall quality education that is accessible to remarkable educational harmony. continue to work to ensure that the all. Similarly, our lay staff of 39 men and 28 Lasallian star of “signum fidei” will women manifest a singular richness continue to shine where diversity is a In succession, the primary section against the background of the African richness. Let us be builders of bridges opened in October 2013, and the mentality which is reluctant to for the pupils whom God has entrusted infants section in October 2014. We promote the value of women outside to us. began using the new Lycee building in the family home. This all serves to November 2016.

4 Mission Down Under

Merv McCormack Executive Director of the Lasallian Mission Council – ANZPPNG [email protected]

The District of Australia, New Zealand, following year. Membership was that the needs of the young, especially Pakistan and Papua New Guinea mandated to include at least 50% lay the marginalised in our society, can (ANZPPNG) is nothing if not rich in its partners, but lay involvement has continue to be met. complexity and diversity. comprised a higher proportion than LMC, in common with all Lasallian that since inception. From the wide open spaces of deserts, works, entities and operations, takes as beaches, rainforests, and snow-capped The establishment of the LMC has been its inspiration a vision of education and mountain ranges; from large city- intended to strengthen the association welfare within the Lasallian tradition located schools to tiny single-room between the Brothers and those characterised especially by schools set on sandy-shored islands; engaged with them in their mission, demonstrated fidelity to the story, from freezing cold winters to blazing ensuring that there is genuine co- philosophy and spirituality of St John hot summers; from drought to flood; responsibility in decision-making as we Baptist de La Salle. To this end, LMC is from schools comprising exclusively work towards the integration of the charged with the Christian and Catholic populations to various Lsallian works. An ultimate schools which are predominantly goal has been to ensure the Muslim in composition; from countries sustainability of the where English is the universal language Lasallian mission so to PNG with its more than 840 languages and dialects. And as diverse as we are, as dissimilar as we are, there is the unifying and dynamic reality of being Lasallians, people who act as big brothers and big sisters to each other. Welcome to our world-here is a little bit about us. The Brothers’ 2012 District of ANZPPNG Chapter unanimously approved the creation of the Lasallian Mission Council (LMC) as the lead entity responsible for conducting and sustaining the District-wide Lasallian mission into the future. The development of the LMC was a recognition of the importance of Lasallian partners in assisting the Brother Visitor and his District Council in matters concerning the mission. LMC informally commenced operations in 2013, and was incorporated the responsibility for assisting in the coordination of the delivery of mission in all parts of the District, and for providing formation and youth ministry services. LMC has as its operational arm, the Lasallian Mission Services’ (LMS) team. This small professional team comprises colleagues who oversee operations, communications, Formation, youth ministry, and assistance with Lasallian vocations. The talent, energy and commitment to Lasallian ideals of the LMS team has been a notable feature of the ANZPPNG District in recent years. The ANZPPNG District comprises approximately forty-five works, including schools, two Teachers’ Colleges, the Lasallian Foundation both Yourtown and LFA operate as The ANZPPNG’s District Formation Australia (LFA), and Yourtown (formerly independent incorporated entities. In Committee, in existence since 2014, known as Boystown ). The schools range time, it is intended that both entities was inaugurated with the goal of from Institute-owned and operated will come under the ownership of LMC. assisting the Lasallian Mission Council ones, through to those which operate Board in exercising its leadership Additionally, New Zealand, Pakistan as part of a systemic Catholic network, responsibilities with respect to and Paua New Guinea each have a through to a small number of schools formation, youth ministry and the Mission Action Committee (MAC), which function somewhat promotion of the Lasallian vocation. which is charged with the independently within various Dioceses responsibility of providing leadership On February 27, 2017, the Formation across the four countries. Currently, and direction for the Lasallian mission Committee was officially renamed as in their respective the Gerard Rummery Institute in countries. honour of the outstanding leadership of Br Gerard Rummery, the renowned An Australian MAC Australian Lasallian Brother, leader, will shortly be scholar and teacher. inaugurated. Examples of The challenges throughout the breadth specific MAC of ANZPPNG are considerable, but so duties include are the dedicated Lasallians, Brothers working with the and Partners, together and in LMS team in association, who continue to developing enthusiastically answer the call, just as effective programs John Baptist de la Salle and his in youth ministry; companions did all those years ago. strengthening the Feel free to check out the District of Lasallian networks Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan and around the Papua New Guinea at delasalle.org.au. country; and identifying and Live Jesus in our hearts! responding to local needs.

6 ne Charism, Two Institutes, OOne Mission Br. Patrick Bradley, fsc [email protected] Br. John Pongpat, fsc [email protected]

In a relationship which can be young children who were abandoned from the Brothers’ center at La San Mai described as “Lasallian Siblings”, the and orphaned as a result of the civil Thon in Saigon. Brothers of the District of Vietnam and war which was being waged at that Since 1975, no religious schools have the La Salle Sisters live out their shared time. The Sisters adopted the Rule and existed in Vietnam. In 2005, taking charism together and by association. spirituality of the Brothers of the advantage of recently- approved Christian Schools. Today, the Sisters In 1966, the La Salle Sisters were government policies, the Brothers conduct several nursery schools and founded by Brother Le Van Tam with opened Vinh Ky School in Yali in the kindergartens. Their mother house is a the expressed mission of caring for highlands of the central part of short walk of less than five minutes

7 Vietnam. As required, this is a private, students with all their heart, and I the local parish which is situated at La non-sectarian school. The Brothers’ never have to worry about the quality San Mai Thon. The aspirants and community is over 100 meters from the of the learning that is happening in postulants for the Brothers attend school. There are no religious symbols their classes.“ weekly classes with their counterparts present in the school buildings or on in the La Salle Sisters. Along with well Although the students, parents, and the property. In the space in each over 100 lay colleagues, the young faculty know they are religious, the classroom where a crucifix is usually Sisters attend classes with the titles “Brother” and “Sister” are never hung, a large framed photograph of Ho scholastic Brothers in the theology used. They are always addressed as Chi Minh is displayed. Grace before center at Mai Thon. Thay or Co , the common forms for meals is replaced by folk songs. In lieu addressing male and female teachers, Collaborating in Lasallian ministry is of formal religion classes there is a respectively. There are six Brothers in not limited to Viet Nam. There are La weekly class in human development the community. Four work at the Salle Sisters in Bangkok who supervise which lasts 15 minutes. school and two supervise a boarding the La Salle Nursery for approximately The school has a current house 100 meters away for 110 high 60 children, aged 2 and 3-years-old. enrollment of 672 boys school boys. The Brothers, La Salle Across the street from the nursery is La and girls in grades 1-5. Salle College where the Sisters are in

Among the many poor In a country overwhelmingly charge of the kindergarten program for students, there are 83 900 children between the ages of 3 children who are Buddhist, the mutual and 6. While the two Institutes members of the Ethnic Minority, very collaboration of these two maintain separate residences on the poor indigenous persons living in the Lasallian congregations as colleg“ e compound, the Brothers and area. 340 of the students live at the companions of Saint La Salle Sisters share in everything which is school from Monday to Friday. On have been a prophetic mission-related as well as quality time three of those evenings they receive a for prayer and meals. 15-minute class in human “ witness of what association In a country overwhelmingly Buddhist, development. for mission is all about the mutual collaboration of these two In 2016, Sister Vo Thien Cu, the despite the many Lasallian congregations as Regional Superior for the Sisters in challenges they face. companions of Saint La Salle Vietnam, accepted the invitation of have been a prophetic Brother Nguyen Van Phat, Visitor, to witness of what association open a community of La Salle Sisters for mission is all about Sisters, as well as the over 20 close to the school in Yali. Last despite the many challenges they face. other staff members including three September, three La Salle Sisters began Sisters from other congregations In San Jose, California the Sisters and teaching at Vinh Ky School. This has gather together for lunch and dinner Brothers minister together at La Salle been a win-win situation for all each day and participate in faculty Community Center. Programs offered concerned. The Brothers wanted the retreat experiences. include childcare, an after-school assistance of the Sisters in taking care program, instruction in the Vietnamese of the very youngest children as well as Although the Sisters just began their language, and a summer program providing the Sisters with an ministry in Yali in September, the incorporating both learning and opportunity to practice their teaching experience of collaboration between recreational activities. The special skills. The Sisters, in turn, wanted to themselves and the Brothers is not a contribution that the Lasallians offer in learn how to run a school as well as new development. Young Brother San Jose is helping the children bridge serve poor children in a school setting. candidates begin to collaborate with the gap between their two cultures- the Sisters on the first day they arrive at The Sisters are all classroom teachers. Vietnamese and American. the aspirancy community at Mai Thon. They help in teaching the human The Sisters are present at daily Mass These ministries give witness to the development classes in the school on and also assist in the care of the elderly reality that the Lasallian charism is truly Monday mornings as well as the Brothers in the Holy Family community. a gift to the Church and by their evening classes for the boarders. On The Brother postulants teach catechism mutual respect and cooperation, the Sundays, they join the Brothers in with the Sisters every Sunday Sisters and the Brothers demonstrate teaching catechism classes in the local afternoon. The Sisters and Brothers that their mission is clearly a shared parish. Brother Le Vinh Nhut, the work together in planning and one … together and by association. principal, is delighted with the executing many religious programs for presence of the Sisters. “They teach the

8 Lending an Ear Antoine Béland International Coordinator for Young Lasallians – Canada [email protected]

Wonder is a feeling we always like to the beating of that heart. Here are want to win the hearts of the children have because it touches us in the three stories of wonder, one from each of the region, most of whom are very innermost part of our being. We can of the countries I visited. vulnerable. In the course of their wonder at the most ordinary things, commitment and through a My first stop was in the community of like a beautiful sunset or the first buds community life rich in prayer, they Lasallian Volunteers of Cameroun, in that open on the trees after a hard gradually discover or rediscover what a Mbalmayo. These young people are winter. We also wonder at more Lasallian life is all about. They live, pray living in community in a house important things, like the success of and work with a zeal that one is adjacent to the school complex of Saint our children or the goodness of our tempted to compare with that of the Mutien-Marie, for which they are parents. In my own case, I have had the Founder and the first Brothers. After a collectively responsible. The volunteers occasional opportunity to see the year or more in the community, the come from the four quarters of the Lasallian charism at work in countries volunteers leave the house, but several country and when they arrived, not all other than my own, and for me it is an of them have continued to work in the of them were familiar with the Lasallian endless source of wonder to see the Mutien-Marie Centre, while others charism. They are there because they small miracles it performs among the young people entrusted to us. I recently had occasion to travel in three African countries, and I was able to meet some of those young people, former students, who have absorbed the Lasallian charism and are spreading it all around them. These Young Lasallians are living the charism in a way that may at first sight appear different. But when you look more closely, you realise that the heart of their Lasallian life is identical with ours. Maybe we should lend our ears to listen to

9 continue as members of the month in one of the Lasallian There is an immense richness in the Association of Lasallian Volunteers in establishments in Burkina. As a result, I diversity of experiences among the Cameroun and support it in any way had the chance to meet and talk with a adolescents and young adults of Africa they can in their local areas. In every number of them while they were going who are living according to the one of them, it is wonderful to see the through this important phase in their Lasallian charism. An often stated same simple approach to the call that formation. I was particularly impressed desire of theirs is that of getting to took them to Mbalmayo, namely to by the importance that they attached know what is being done in other parts provide children with an identity and a to pastoral work with children. These of the world so that they can draw future. That is the goal of salvation that novices understand the importance of inspiration from the projects of others is shared by all Lasallian educators providing a vocational accompaniment who, like themselves, want to devote throughout the world. to the children entrusted to us, and themselves to the educational service they know that lay teachers and of disadvantaged children. They want When I was in Togo, my attention was Brothers need to work together in to be united with others and to be caught by a group of enthusiatic and order to carry out that mission. Several really part of the big Lasallian Family. committed young people. The of them were given responsibility for a There is no doubt that the African University of Lomé is not a Lasallian pastoral group during their period of continent is facing problems that establishment, but it takes in a number placement. These future Brothers will others can scarcely imagine. A of former students from our colleges be returning to their own countries and reasonable and reliable access to the around the country. Some of these they will share with others the task of means of communication which allow were very much involved in the leading more and more young people young people to share their pastoral activities of their schools, and to decide to follow in the footsteps of experiences with one another presents a few years ago they expressed the Saint Jean-Baptiste de La Salle and to a considerable problem, and it is one desire to continue living a style of life become in turn bearers of the Lasallian that, viewed from outside, seems hard that embodied the Lasallian charism in charism. to overcome. an intentional way. As a result, the Young Lasallians group in Lomé But can we not just stop for a moment University now welcomes all the former and listen? A listening attitude enables students who want to continue their us to accept one another. It allows us to personal development in the values of unite and to take advantage of our faith, fraternity and service. The group diversity. If we could only listen a little is also a real family for the young bit more! people who often have to move Maybe that would enable us to be far from home in order to filled with wonder at the sight attend the university in the of others. capital. The group has been in existence for several years, and they are now beginning to think about new challenges they can meet in order to make a more committed response to their Lasallian vocation. The dynamism of these young people is catching, and their presence gives hope the whole District. Finally in Burkina Faso, it so happened that I arrived at the time when the novices were out on placements. The novitiate in Bobo-Dioulasso includes candidates from the countries of French-speaking Africa, and in their second year the novices spend a

10 I am Brother Téfio Raoul TRAORE involved in the group of Young charitable activities and care for from Burkina Faso. I am the eighth in Lasallians of the College in Premia de others. a family of nine children. Currently, I Mar and in the pastoral ministry in – The experience of living with am studying for my International the Sector of Catalunya with Brother Associates, sharing prayers, meals, Masters degree in Business Javier Nuñez. I have cut down on my exchanges of ideas on Lasallian Administration (MBA), in the La Salle involvement in these activities so as topics and on the life of the campus of the Ramon Llull University to give more time to my work on the college, and seeing their generous in Barcelona. Masters thesis. I also teach catechism dedication. It all gives me hope in the Parish of Santa Maria in Premia that the Lasallian venture still has de Mar. 1. To whom is the activity you are good days ahead of it. In the university, I am known as a involved in addressed specifically? – The dynamic pastoral ministry in Brother, and I try to carry the Describe briefly the place where the Sector of Catalunya and in the responsibility with dignity. you work and the people with leadership of the college in Premia whom you work (the general I find my presence in Barcelon de Mar. I am always impressed by context of your mission, enriching from several points of the enthusiasm of the teachers in establishment or project). view. the college. I live in the Community of Premia de – The witness of fidelity by the – The Sector leadership favours the Mar, where Saint Miguel Febres elderly Brothers who, in the inclusion of lay Lasallians in Cordero once lived. As a religious evening of their lives, continue to decision-making processes, in and a student, I take part in the life look for ways in which to initiatives which foster autonomy of the Community. During the first participate in and support the and in efforts of solidarity with semester, I helped out in the Lasallian educational mission as far refugees, immigrants and fragile Lasallian NGO of PROYDE. I was as they can through prayer, Districts.

2. In practical rather than theoretical terms, what does the Lasallian charism mean to you in your actual situation? The Lasallian charism consists in rescuing young people from the clutches of ignorance. It means opening their minds to the vasteness of science, the arts and technology, and at the same time guiding them towards transcendence and an appreciation of the invisible. The Lasallian charism is also the catalyst for qualitative transformation in our society, and this is especially clear in developing countries.

11 3. Describe in five words what De La Salle means in the place where you are Vision-Experience- Accompanying- Service-Transformation .

4. What things do you bring to the Lasallian charism? My religious consecration lived with joy in the midst of a secular society; the seriousness with which I do my studies; my dedication to the mission of my District; my whole person with all my qualities and limitations; my contribution to discussions on various topics; the witness of my life we Lasallians should be innovative in waste. our responses to the needs of as a Brother, loving and forgiving Let us learn to plan, not to improvise. and ready to see and listen rather society. Let us learn to serve, not to than to speak. With particular reference to RELAF, dominate. where innovation is extremely necessary, I am inclined to say the Let us learn to analyse, not to 5. In the context of your current following. pontificate. mission, what ideas are suggested Let us learn to include, not to reject. to you by the commemoration of Let us learn to initiate, not to oppose. the 300th anniversary of the death Let us learn to propose, not to Let us learn to build, not to destroy. of our Founder? criticise. Let us learn to cooperate, not to I am very proud to be a disciple of Let us learn to appreciate, not to compete. Saint Jean-Baptiste de La Salle, a moralise. Let us risk making others happy. saint who is an enlightened leader. Let us learn to generate, not to He knew how to read the needs of Let us risk being happy. society and to find an answer which continues to inspire thousands of men and women in their ministry three hundred years later. The commemoration is a due homage to our holy Founder and a call to each one of us to make him contemporary to the men and women of our age. He was an innovator, so why should only talk of him in the past tense?

6. What message would you like to give to Lasallians throughout the world? My message to the Lasallian family is one of joy in the commitment to a better world, shown in our daily tasks in our various establishments for people with various expectations. Like Saint Jean-Baptiste de La Salle,

12 precious sharing - BAeing a Lasallian in Portugal Paula Fernandes Lopes Colegio La Salle in Barcelos, Portugal paulacfl[email protected]

I am Paula, 34 years old and single. I am groups and as a teacher, have been sharing of life, not just a sharing of the an Associate, and I work as the person privileged occasions that helped me to mission. in charge of Pastoral Ministry and a discover my vocation as an educator, My participation in international teacher of Biology and Geology in the which has meaning only when it is meetings (assemblies, youth Colegio La Salle de Barcelos in northern lived as a community experience. gatherings, JMJ and CEL), has opened Portugal, in the District of ARLEP. The path by which God led me up for me the reality of the Institute, It is my belonging to a community that through Christian groups has made me which goes far beyond the walls of my enables me to live as a Christian and to grow in the discovery of the value and college and my situation. It has helped be at the service of children and young importance that others hold in my life me to feel part of something much people, especially the poorest. of faith and to see clearly that I am larger and to be in communion with so called to live in community. My many people whom I regard as my The story of my link with De La Salle experiences as a teacher and my ‘brothers and sisters’ even though I began when I was a ten year old pupil, increasing involvement with students have never met them. and it has developed over time as a through organising pastoral activities, story of growth in faith and encounter My decision to ask to become an helped me come gradually closer to with Jesus by way of the Lasallian Associate in the Lasallian charism dates the Community of the Brothers in the charism. from 2012, and my ties to the college. It has always been an open Community of Brothers engendered a The many experiences that I have had, and welcoming space where we can natural response to God’s invitation to as a student, as a member of Christian feel at home. This has made for a become a Lasallian educator. Having of service in education, tracing new We all share the life of Lasallians in made the act of Association, I was open lines of action capable of transforming Portugal, with a simple dynamism that to the grace of living in a Community the world and bringing about the produces a lot of vitality. We share in which the Brothers care for one Kingdom of God. personal projects, make retreats another and which is open to the together, celebrate each individual’s There are two Lasallian establishments children and young people entrusted significant occasions in life such as in Portugal, a college in Barcelos and a to us. birthdays. We are a Community of hostel for boys in Braga. The pastoral people of different ages and states of The great feeling of communion that ministry is very dynamic, and it life, but in our diversity we live out the comes with the community experience involves many children, adolescents same call and the same vocation. leads far beyond relationships, and adults. It is inspired by three Together, we are called to care for languages and frontiers, and it springs Lasallian Communities, one comprising children and young people, helping from the sharing of the same feeling of Brothers only, another for Associates them to get to know Jesus and to be faith and the same awareness of being and a mixed Community comprising touched by Him. children of God, called by Him to a life four Brothers and myself.

14 oung Lasallians at the YHeart of the Community

Félix Jacques Animator Centre Notre-Dame de la Rouge, Canada [email protected]

The Lasallian community was always them in the Lasallian camps to give met up again with Brother Michel part of my life, even before I knew it. them happy memories and to teach Jacques who had helped them during My parents used to organise pastoral them Christian values. However, it was their preparation for marriage. We grew weekends with a group of university only some years later, when my sister up in the camps, becoming junior friends, and those among them who and I started going to Notre-Dame de la leaders and eventually permanent had children started to hire places for Rouge at the age of 8, that my parents members. We experienced marvellous summers surrounded by people who were enthusiatic and devoted. So when I reached the age of 22, it was my turn to give something back to the community that had seen me grow up and had shaped me over the years. For a few years, I took part in the organisation Bouffée d’air [Breath of Air], which operated for the the benefit of the disadvantaged children of Lachute and Rosemont in Montreal. The group aims to give children from difficult backgrounds the chance to get away for a breath of fresh air, away from their daily problems. Obviously, I was not the only one involved in this activity. Several young people from the camps, group leaders or others, were very keen to help these children and joined the team of volunteers working for four weekends a year. In that way, young people like myself who received so much from the Lasallian community were able to give something back to those who were in greatest need. During my summers as a group leader in the camps, I developed the qualities which enabled me to gain the position of Permanent Leader. I used to think I

15 knew the Lasallian world of Quebec, but I was far from realising the breadth of that community which is still very much alive. Even though the Brothers are quietly ageing, the Young Lasallians are responding by taking a greater place in the life of the community. I learned about the existence of the Villa des Jeunes and the Lasallian Centre Saint-Michel , which are right in the heart of the big cities of Quebec and Montreal. In these centres, children of all ages come to find strength, to grow and to enjoy themselves. I was fortunate enough to be able to take part in a joint project for the youngest children mounted by these two centres. We set up the Council for Lasallian Youth of French-speaking Canada and we organised the pilot project L’envolée des Jeunes [the Rise of the Young] to provide free activities to all who wanted to come to us. This will also provide opportunities for young people looking for meaningful volunteer experiences and a real sense of achievement in their activity. Christian life are very much alive and continue the dream and the lifelong Contrary to what some people choose resilient. We have the enthusiasm and mission of all those dedicated Brothers to think, Lasallian life and even the rashness which will allow us to who have gone before us. I am currently engaged as Director The school is located in what is What contributions do you General of the Obra Educativa de La basically an industrial neighbourhood make to the Lasallian charism? Salle in San Martín, Province of Buenos with small and medium enterprises, Aires, Argentina. As such, I try to ensure and it was once considered to be the I think it is more a question of what the the unity of four levels of education in major industrial zone in the region. The Lasallian charism brings to me, so I find the one complex, working in families who choose our school make it difficult to answer this question. But conjunction with the heads of each of great financial efforts to invest in the if I am pushed I would say that my the different levels. education of their children. contribution is related to the preceding questions. It involves a commitment to Who are the specific recipients Describe how you see your the mission, but it is above all a matter of the work you are doing? situation and activities, without of the will to find a deeper association Decribe briefly the place where going into a lot of theory. What and to create and develop space for you work and the people with does the Lasallian charism mean community and fraternity. whom you work. to you? In the mission you are involved My work is basically with the senior In my experience, the Lasallian charism in, what ideas are suggested to management, the teaching staff and Lasallano has two fundamental you by the 300th anniversary of the administrative staff of the aspects, namely association and the death of our Founder? mission. To us it is clear that our establishment (totalling around 250). I The first idea that occurs to me is that am also concerned with the parents of mission is concerned with the educational service of the poor we should make a gospel response that the 2,000 students who attend our is faithful to the context in which each school. (although carrried out in contexts of greater or less social vulnerability). In Lasallian community finds itself. That is The school includes nursery level (ages addition, I have learned that the principal thing for me, and after it 3-5), primary level (ages 6-11), community is indispensable for that come the other ideas of permanence, secondary level general and technical mission. Knowing that we are belonging, reading our story in faith (ages 12-17) and upper high school associated with others in the same etc. and adult levels (16 years and mission enables us to carry it out. There What message would you like to upwards). is no mission without give to Lasallians throughout community. the world? In five words, The same message as the General express the Chapter asked us to focus on for this meaning of De La year, namely that we should continue Salle in the place to search for the God who is calling us where you are. to cooperate in His work, and who does so through a mutiplicity of voices Association, fraternity, in which the Lasallian charism is being educational service of incarnated in this world, the voices of the poor, incarnation, the poor, of children and young networking. people, of immigrants, of the unemployed. It is my great desire that we will be able to continue responding faithfully to these calls.

17 Tercentenary commemoration of the death of Saint John Baptist de La Salle, Founder of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools (1719-2019)

18 Pope Francis once said, “we are pilgrims from death to fullness of life...” Saint John Baptist de La Salle, Patron Saint of Teachers, entered that fullness of life in 1719. During 2019 the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools will celebrate this 300th anniversary as the Year of Lasallian Vocations. The De La Salle Tercentenary logo is a circle that represents the fullness of life. Within the circle is the numeral 300 in an ascending appearance to symbolize the continuing vitality of the Institute and celebration of St. La Salle's entry to the fullness of life. The circle has openings rather than a closed curve. Each number in the 300 has openings rather than three separate numerals. The openings indicate how the Lasallian Mission is open to going beyond its own borders. They are like portals where Lasallians can easily break barriers in their own vocational journeys and be one with those living on the peripheries. The theme text is placed around the circle to clearly define the tercentenary celebration. While death may have separated Lasallians from their Founder, the wrap text around the circle signifies how Lasallians worldwide continue to show much heart, commitment, and life that unites them all even more profoundly in the Lasallian Mission. Blue is chosen to follow the Institute color. We want to extend our appreciation to Antonio del Rosario and Jaker Leno of the Philippine Sector of the LEAD District for their assistance in creating our tercentenary logo.

#300LaSalle

19 InterviFienancial Adwministration in Nicaragua), Br. Manuel Estrada Carpintero, fsc the body which oversees the Member of the District of Central America-Panama, Nicaragua management of money, resources and [email protected] properties of the District. That means I have to deal with financial bodies, lawyers and state authorities. I am Brother Manuel Estrada years I was devoted to teaching in In addition, I am committed to working Carpintero. I was born in Spain in 1939, secondary education. At the present, I in the local Church as Coordinator for in a very humble family with few am in active retirement. Religious Life in the archdiocese. I am material resources. I have been a I was a Director in schools and in touch with the religious of the 65 missionary in Central America for 60 Communities for many years, university Congregations in the Archdiocese of years. Currently, I am in Nicaragua, professor in various institutes of higher Managua. where I have taken citizenship. I have education, and up to this year District always been a member of the District This work is part of the archdiocesan Assessor for Former Students and for of Central America-Panama. Pastoral Vicariate, which includes 23 the Signum Fidei Fraternity. groups of pastoral activity. I am in I graduated with a masters in sociology I was Auxiliary Visitor in Nicaragua touch with all of them, one way or and anthropology in France and did during the first years of the Sandinista another. theological studies in the University of Popular Revolution, then a Comillas, in Spain. Before that, I I find the work that involves me in the missionary for three years in studied mathematics and local Church very interesting. It Haïti as part of the 100-plus physics in Nicaragua. For 58 enriches me and I have a contribution Mission and Coordinator to make. One of our greatest of rural educational achievements is the way in which we projects in Guatemala have been able to establish greater and Nicaragua. familiarity, understanding and union For the past three years I between the archdiocesan clergy and have been the the religious. Administrator of GAFNI In general, I have found that we (Management of Brothers, like other religious, tend to live enclosed within our own work and our way of life inside the walls of our Communities and establishments. In effect, we do not see ourselves as part of the local Church, and we do not prepare our students for integration into their parishes or the archdiocese. I In Nicaragua, De La Salle means a day. Recall the fact that the first have tried to encourage people to “step hundred years of prestige for quality in teacher training establishment in outside” and feel they are “Church”. education and technical training at Nicaragua was founded in 1913 as secondary and higher levels, supported the Pedagogical Institute for Men Our archdiocese includes the three significantly by service to all who ask and was a Lasallian foundation. Departments of Managua, Carazo y us for it (poor, middle class or well off ) Masaya. It is led by Cardinal Archbishop 2. Emphasise the figure of the Founder and openness to the local Church. Leopoldo Brenes assisted by an as the liberator of the poor . For Auxiliary Bishop. It is very clerical in its What elements do you bring to this, it would be good to present organisation, and we play our part in the Lasallian charism? him as someone who “from wealthy making it more open to the laity and to origins, discovered the world of the a recognition of their role according to During my activity as a missionary, I poor” and moved towards them to Vatican II and the wishes of Pope think my contribution to the Lasallian offer them his knowledge and his Francis. The Church needs to include charism has been my union with and life. The poor of Nicaragua are those who are not clerics (lay people support for the local Church. I have looking for a liberator, and one and religious Brothers and Sisters). done that in every place where I might rise from the ranks of happened to work, in Honduras, Lasallians. For this, two thing would What does the Lasallian charism Guatemala and Nicaragua. I have be necessary. mean to you? maintained close relations with bishops, priests and lay groups, a) On the intellectual level, we I define it as “The educational service of offering my services with the support could organise literary contests the poor, motivated by the spirit of of my Community and the District. among our students and faith as defined by Saint Jean-Baptiste teachers, with formal discussions de La Salle and directed towards the In your present mission, what in our schools. It would be useful local community in which we live as ideas are suggested to you by to compare Saint Jean-Baptist de Brothers”. the commemoration of the 300 La Salle with Blessed Mgr The backbone is formed by the three anniversary of the death of the Romero. Lasallian values of faith, fraternity and Founder? b) On the level of actions, it would service to the poor. be the right time to realise I would like to see some important another “pioneer work for the Choose 5 words to describe initiatives being carried out to make most vulnerable”. If that cannot what De La Salle means in the our Founder better known, but not just be done, at least I do think that in general terms by repeating the same place where you live in preparation for the old “commonplaces”. celebration it would be possible We need something new in two in the District to promote directions. smaller initiatives for the very 1. Jean-Baptist de La Salle as poor in all our establishments, pedagogue and Patron of among students, teachers and Teachers . Present this to the parents. Ministry of Education, to teacher What message would you like to training establishments and to give to Lasallians around the teachers. We could organise a joint world? plan with the Ministry of Education for a National Congress on Let us make the most of this Education with the participation of tercentenary celebration in order to Brothers, teachers, education come closer to the gentle figure of our authorities, former students, parents Founder in those ways that most and students of the upper concern us, namely spirituality, secondary classes. People would be pedagogy and commitment to the selected from the different groups poor. according to the contribution they Without being vain, let us revitalise in could make. our spiritual life and our daily activities Analyse what Lasallian education our feeling of pride at being Lasallians. can offer to Nicaragua today, in the Let us make it our life’s motto that light of the innovations made by “Today, we are De La Salle”. Saint Jean-Baptist de La Salle in his

21

he Lasallian Commitment in Tthe Heart of Palestine Bethlehem University empowers young people to live life to the full

Interview to Br. Peter Bray, fsc [email protected] By Br. Daniel Felipe Niño, fsc [email protected]

After Pope Paul VI visited the Holy Land in 1964, he saw how important it was to find ways to support the Palestinians. Thus, three projects emerged. The first two projects were Tantur, a world center for studies in ecumenism, and Ephpheta, a medical center for children born with hearing and speaking disabilities. The third one, however, took a lot longer to formulate and was initially very vague. It was only in 1973, under the guidance of Archbishop Pio Laghi, the Apostolic Delegate at the time, that the final project came into being: a University. Before then, anyone wanting a university education had to go outside Palestine. In general, only the wealthy the difficulties of the Israeli occupation, During the last 8 years, it has shown families could afford to send their not with weapons but with knowledge. tremendous growth led by the present children abroad to study. Afterwards, Vice Chancellor Br. Peter Bray. He holds Under the leadership of the De La Salle many of them decided to stay in the a doctorate in leadership from the Christian Brothers, Bethlehem countries where they studied. University of San Diego. His extensive University opened in October 1973 to Therefore, a university, a good one, experience over more than thirty years receive its first 112 students. Today, 43 would give the Palestinians the of administration in Lasallian years later, it is the only Catholic opportunity to get access to institutions and his passion in the field University in Palestine, providing, for professional education in their own of leadership, in which he has taught in some 3200 students, quality higher land and stop the emigration of highly Universities and other educational education, “Founded on truth, built on skilled or well-educated individuals. It institutions in many countries, have justice, animated by love”. would be the base for the been some of the main pillars for his establishment of a society able to face

23 commitment to Bethlehem University. Born in New Zealand, Br. Peter has a special attachment for the essential mission this co-educational institution has on the need of building peace in the middle of an unfinished conflict. In Bethlehem, the “Signum Fidei” star is still shedding its light over the many voices that have responded to God’s call to procure his glory by ensuring dignity to the poor through education. It is here where Br. Peter has given his time to share with the Lasallian Family some of his deepest reflections. It is the Brother’s hope to enlighten our mission and encourage us to engage tirelessly with De La Salle’s legacy. Br. Peter, without a doubt, Bethlehem University has been fostering the new life of the Gospel locally and throughout the whole country. What are the main signs of this new life in the midst of a Christian minority population? The Christians in the Holy Land consider themselves as an integral part of the Palestinian people and do not reflect on their role as a minority. There are Muslims who also see them as a central part of the Palestinian scene. These Muslims reflect on the decrease in the number of Christians as diminishing the very character of what it is to be a Palestinian. There are, however, considerable pressures on the Christian community that militate against the growth of that community. The economic pressure across Palestine is being felt by Palestinians because of the occupation. This has led some to leave Palestine in search of a better life. However, there are still many who have no intention of migrating. Those students coming to Bethlehem University are challenged to commit themselves to fostering a quality of life that respects individuals, promotes dialogue and engenders hope. It is in these three areas that Bethlehem University is contributing to the enrichment of the lives of the people and seeking to bring new life, not only to the Christians, but, in line with Jesus’ mission, to enable all students to live life to the full. Regarding Jesus’ mission, which is the knowledge, acquire the skills, and participating in the mission of also ours, Br. Robert Schieler reminds develop the virtues that will enable Bethlehem University. This Lasallian us that the Rule recognizes the them to live life to the full, despite the emphasis is not just for Christians. It is ministerial co-responsibility of occupation and restrictions that go an expectation of all at Bethlehem Brothers, Partners, and other “many along with being in Palestine. It is University as the common call goes out voices”, responding to the “one call” to important to keep in mind St. Irenaeus' to enable and empower young people procure the glory of God. In the comment that “The glory of God is to live life to the full. context Bethlehem University is set in, human beings fully alive.” Thus, the Who are then the new voices, the this co-responsibility is also shared procurement of God's glory is protagonists of the Lasallian Family in with non-Christians. It means that essentially tied into helping people live Bethlehem University? more voices are joining our common life to the full. In what Bethlehem call. In what way does this particular University is doing it is seeking, in the There are an increasing number of reality of Bethlehem University enrich words of St Francis, to "preach the people who are taking up the call to and give a wider perspective to our Good News at all times, and, if live out the vision of De La Salle. The mission? necessary, use words." It is in the nature faculty and staff who have been on the and quality of the relationships, the Lasallian Leadership Program in Rome At the heart of the call for Bethlehem way faculty organize, advise and link is increasing in number and they are University to serve the Palestinian with students that Bethlehem finding support in the group. These people through education is a deep University is helping to create that people have the capacity to make a respect for each individual who is environment which is going to procure difference by following through on the encountered at Bethlehem University. God's glory. It is in responding to the enrichment they received during that This respect is evident as faculty and common call to live life as fully as program. In addition, the students who staff seek to be brothers and sisters to possible that all employees at have become ambassadors of one another and older brothers and Bethlehem University are enriching the Bethlehem University are more and sisters to the young people entrusted lives of individuals and empowering more inclined to speak publicly about to them and it is here that the common them and thus serving the Palestinian their lives in a way that reflects the call becomes evident. What we are people through the education that is influence of the Lasallian spirit on the trying to do is create an environment, offered. This is not just a task for the way they approach things. These develop an atmosphere and provide an Christians, but for all who are faculty, staff and students are in reality opportunity for our students to gain

25 becoming brothers and sisters to one conservative perspective of western people who are feeling the same another and again in building those countries that face the integration of anxiety as themselves and so gain relationships they are promoting the a bigger population from different strength and strategies for dealing with Lasallian Family. This becomes evident cultures and religions? the real issues they face. This means in the resilience that students show in taking risks, reaching out in a spirit of In revitalizing the Lasallian mission, supporting one another in dealing with love so that they can show there are Bethlehem University is embedded in the challenges they face. As one said, alternative ways to relate than the the mission of the Church which is here “there are restrictions everywhere as a closed, frightened, intolerant stance in the Holy Land to live the Good News. result of the occupation, but they are which closes people off from one Doing this runs contrary to the often not inside me, they are out there and another. The Lasallian mission to build natural inclinations of people. In a we are dealing with them and not just life-giving relationships is providing situation where Christians are a small sitting around blaming occupation for people at Bethlehem University with portion of the population and there are everything that we can’t do. I am a the opportunity to see beyond the uncertainties for them around their twenty year old girl and I want to do immediate danger, to see the reality of future and the possibilities of extreme what I want to do, and I am going to people’s lives and to work with people elements having an influence, there is live my life!” Such voices give evidence who are different and as a result come an inclination to circle the wagons, to of the empowering experience that to accept people irrespective of their put up walls and separate into safe Bethlehem University is providing to background or beliefs. This, however, places with like-minded people. The enable people to live life to the full. requires courage. The opportunities Church's mission and that of available at Bethlehem University for Your experience really shows that the Bethlehem University, is to do the students to come to know one another institutional work of Bethlehem opposite. The Church and Bethlehem across their differences means they can University is helping to revitalize the University want to pull down walls, to grow to trust one another and gain Lasallian mission. How do you think open the windows, to reach out in faith courage from the common purpose at this experience could help our schools to those people who are likewise the heart of Bethlehem University’s and universities to provide an answer frightened. People need to be wise and mission. to the new challenges of the careful, but they need not be driven by increasingly intolerant, tight and fear. The challenge is to link with

26 Many Voices, One Call Br. Daniel Berlay Montes de Oca Lindoro, fsc [email protected]

No, I have not made a mistake in the I was welcomed by the Brother Director These associates of ours are examples wording of the above quote. So, my of my new Community (Brother Yvan of a firm determination and a will to Brothers, why did I write it that way? Lavigne), who was waiting for me with take on the challenge of “touching The answer is very simple; just carry on a big smile and a warm overcoat to hearts”, accompanying the rising reading. protect me from the low temperatures generations in their search for the which were already afflicting that truths and convictions which will The fact was that on November 5 th , beautiful country. empower them to work for their own 2014, I found myself with two suitcases, good and that of their neighbours and a one-way ticket, a work permit, a heart From that time on, my experience of their environment. full of hope and encouragement and a “mission” was changed by great mind turned upside down, with the opportunities for learning, during However, my greatest learning single, very nervous key idea that “life which I shared pleasant and edifying experience was and will remain my begins at the end of your comfort moments of dialogue with Brothers acquaintance with all those who had zone”. who have devoted themselves “body come to Montreal from other places, and soul” to “saving the souls” of the other cultures and other contexts. They I was accompanied by Brother Martin children entrusted to them. It was also have my greatest admiration and Rocha (Visitor of the District of Antillas- a great opportunity for me to learn respect. They are brave and decisive in Mexico Sur), and after a brief stopover how to share the Lasallian charism and their reaction to adversities, but ready in Miami we arrived in Montreal. My entrust it to a great number of to accept what it means to “start again”, aim was to work with the Brothers of associates who are passionately convinced that they are here to French-speaking Canada in setting up dedicated to continuing that great struggle and to be ready, day in day the Saint-Michel Lasallian Centre and mission. out, to turn their goals into realities. to help in the animation of Community life in the District. Above all, they have unshakeable faith in themselves but also the humility to ask for and to accept help. They opened up the horizon of my vocation and sense of belonging to the Institute and made me broaden my criteria, my dreams and my aspirations. Our good God, as I like to call Him, came to me every day of my stay in Montreal. He came in the varied colours of the different populations, Muslim, Jewish, West Indian, “québecois” and the rest. All of these showed that our pathway to God requires much more than good will. It is hard to conclude a report like this without some words of thanks.

27 • My thanks to Jesus, the missionary not force”. Above all, I am confident thinking, speaking and discerning. That and the neighbour of all, who that our Institute and mission have is something marvellous and it carries accompanied me in the times of been, are and will continue to be “of one single message: I am the Way and fullness and joy and also in the times great necessity”. the Truth and the Light (Jn 14, 6) . when darkness, loneliness, confusion Many voices, many different ways of Live Jesus in our hearts! For ever! and melancholy invaded my heart. • My thanks to my Brothers, the members of my family and my friends, who in their love always had time for me, even without knowing it. • My thanks to all those who make up the Lasallian family in Quebec and the surrounding area. I can never tire of thanking them for how unbelievably well they made me feel at home. Thanks for their trust, their corrections and their hearts full of life and hope. • My thanks to my Brothers in the Institute. Through their creativity and enthusiasm, they make shared mission a space of fraternal encounter and dialogue and of tireless search for the Absolute. After almost three years of this incomparable experience, I land back in Mexico with a changed outlook, convinced that “God attracts but does

28 he Lasallian Centre Tof Egypt

Br. Jean-Claude Abou-Atmé, fsc Leader of the Lasallian Centre of Cairo [email protected]

We begin this presentation on the meditation in common at the start educational practices are in line with Lasallian Centre of Egypt by saying that of each meeting to prepare us to go Lasallian principles. the participants are divided into two deeper into things and develop an groups, one in Cairo and one in attitude of silent listening. 4 We pay attention to the individual personalities of the children and try to Alexandria. – At the end of each meeting, we draw learn about their lives and their up personal charts to reflect what The programmes we offer are for mixed personal, family and educational we have learned during the session. groups of teachers, from different difficulties, in order to support them in cultural backgrounds and with varied – This approach enables us to discover their growth and avoid any experience according to age and our individual capacities, and it misunderstanding or prejudgements religious faiths. strengthens our personal between us and them. convictions. In the course of an entire school year, 5 Our action is also aimed at the child we try to get them to discover their Organisation: 17 in need. We arrange visits to mission, in themselves and in their meetings of 2 hours handicapped children through the surroundings. each Centre de Vie (Alexandria – Saint Marc) We count on the dynamics of the and the section Vie meilleure (Cairo – group to ensure depth in reflection and Programme: De la Salle). in faith. 1 The following question serves as a 6 Profile outlines: teachers are given Every meeting follows starting point: Why am I a teacher, and observation sheets to help them study what reasons made me become a the individual case of a child of their the same method of teacher? choosing. They observe them for a work fortnight and share their remarks and 2 We make a comparison of what conclusions about the child with other – We take for our departure point influenced and promoted our personal participants in subsequent meetings. some real experience in people’s development as pupils in school with situation. what influences us today as teachers. 7 Our point of reference is the historic – We raise questions about their period of Saint Jean Baptiste de La experience and about ways to 3 We base all our reflections on the Salle. In the course of his own life, he improve things. thought of Saint Jean-Baptiste de La discovered in faith his mission to Salle regarding pedagogy and – We reflect on the demands made on educate children. spirituality (taking into account that us by the children, the mission and the group includes teachers who are 8 In our own mission, we draw the Lasallian community. non-Christian). We are always inspiration from the Lasallian heritage – There is always a regular time for concerned to ensure that our which is based on association (Brothers

29 with Brothers, Brothers with Lay challenge of training Muslim and The meetings play an important role in Lasallians, Lay Lasallians with Lay Christian teachers together in the gaining knowledge about others, and Lasallians). This is what guarantees our thinking of Saint Jean-Baptiste de La the mixing of religious cultures makes continuing in the same spirit. Salle. At first sight, this may not appear for a richer sharing. The thoughts of possible, but experience has shown Saint Jean-Baptiste de La Salle facilitate 9 Our mission today calls us to identify that it can be done, if everyone makes meeting and exchange between the contemporary needs of children the effort and is convinced about it, in teacher who would otherwise work and young people and to find spite of all that is happening today. side by side without knowing one responses to their needs. That is what There are still Muslims and Christians another. Meeting around a shared characterises us. who are committed to peace and value helps people to live together in fraternity and who can continue to our Lasallian establishments. 10 At the end of the programme, we meet and discuss, overcoming Finally, I want to express the desire that draw up a joint roadmap based on prejudices and superficial clichés so as we will continue to make efforts along what we have learned in the different to get to know one another. When they this pathway to overcome our sessions. are united around a common set of differences so as to work better as a values, Lasallian values, Christian and The programme of the Centre is the team, basing ourselves and our schools Muslim teachers learn a lot from one fruit of the work of various leadership on Lasallian thinking. teams since its foundation twenty years another. They can accept their ago. differences and discuss questions To conclude I shall cite an African about education according to the mind proverb "Alone, one travels quickly. The Specific Nature of of Saint Jean-Baptiste de La Salle. This Together, we travel further". This all our Lasallian Centre gives them common ground for gives witness to the calm atmosphere meeting and a chance to have dialogue of living together in tolerance which The Centre was founded to meet the while respecting one another’s faith. predominates in our Lasallian schools.

30 Interview Br. Carlos G. Gómez, fsc Visitor of the District of Bogotá [email protected]

I made the novitiate in 1980 and stratified and exclusive and in a Church Perpetual Profession in 1985. that was profoundly clericalised. They Licenciate in Religious Education, discovered the transforming power of Masters in Political Science, the Christian school and how Doctorate in Education; educational innovation can transform professor in various the lives of families and of society. So educational institutions of the original charism lay in their the State and of the continuous educational creativity to Congregation; rural teacher enable the poor children to find and university professor; opportunities in their situation, these last years I was communities of meaning, experiences President of the Universidad of God, the construction of personal de La Salle in Bogota. From dreams and social orders directed November 2016 I have towards justice, equality and fraternity. been appointed Visitor of The Founder and the first Brothers the District of Bogotá. listened to the voices – the needs – The Institute is no longer of their time and acted on them. the same as it was in the Various challenges exist in the time of the Founder and the situations and locations where we first Brothers, and neither is the are present today, and creative educational mission. Say in your responses are being made by own words, and please speak Brothers and lay Lasallians. How freely, what you consider to can we safeguard the charism and be the original charism at the same time make room for a of our Institute. response to the new kinds of call De La Salle and the made within the special vitality of first Brothers our charism, without allowing it to made creative become diluted in the course of its commitments history? to the We will take care of the charism so long education of as we understand the original the poor, the inspiration and give it new meaning. evangelisation Education is continually changing, as is of children and the school. Consequently there is young people always a need to reinvent, recreate and and their start anew. Being faithful to the inclusion in a Lasallian charism and tradition implies society that a rereading in today’s context of our was rigidly spirituality and our aim to help the

31 men and women of today to find lead us to open the doors of our In these times of new kinds of meaning in their lives, opportunities to communities, our schools, our houses, nationalism and new kinds of play their part in history and to so that young people can find meaning individualism, how should we encounter the saving mystery of Jesus in their lives, goals to strive for, means understand the expression “united Christ. for moving forward, and the presence in diversity” in the context of our of the good Lord who satisfies, heals, Pope Francis tells us that “The charism? What aspects of it keep us pardons and inspires. As for us, we can Church does not grow by united in diversity? How can we revitalise our commitments and find proselytism. It grows by attraction”. integrate the special identity of the new reasons for living and striving. In the case of the Institute, in spite lay Lasallian with the special of the decrease in the number of In his Encyclical “The Joy of the identity of the Brother so as to Brothers, this growth is manifested Gospel”, the Pope Francis invites us continue our work of construction in new forms for living the charism. not to allow doubts and fears to together? This leads to other questions. Are suffocate our boldness. What Not only do we see new nationalisms we attractive? Is that important? doubts and fears, indeed what and individualisms, there are also new What is our greatest power of dangers, do you think are present kinds of fundamentalism and attraction? in our Lasallian situation today? relativism. The way forward is precisely What bold steps will help us to I believe that there are in the Lasallian an open approach, which invites rather overcome our fears? world innovative educational than imposes, dialogues rather than experiments which are attractive and A school is in danger of developing indoctrinates, includes rather than which are clear responses to needs in sclerosis, repeating itself, ceasing to discards. It is the pathway towards the various situations in which the generate dialogue between our respect for diversity without Institute is present. This does not spirituality and our educational role abandoning one’s convictions. always happen in our way of life when through new methods of pedagogy Tolerance is something very necessary it is understood in terms of the and developments in the theory of today, and it requires individuals who Brother’s vocation. We can become education and cognitive sciences. On are ready to invite, welcome and able attractive when we manage to be the other hand, we need boldness to to find what unites rather than what infected with fraternity, committed to respond with creativity and daring as divides. Unity is never uniform or the poor, innovative and creative, able we formulate and implement projects dogmatic, but is open to dialogue and to take risks, ready to put ourselves in to meet new kinds of poverty in the constructive. God’s hands and to let the risen Christ situations of those who are excluded On the other hand, the identity of the shine through us. I think administration from society and from the means of Brother does not become diluted or is eating us up and we have lost direct knowledge and are thus marginalised relativised through collaboration with contact with the pastoral and by the economic systems. In spite of all people who choose a different way of educational ministry to young people. that, our creativity should enable us to being Christians in today’s society. The Where we can combine creativity, risk- proclaim the Gospel in the realms of Brother is a witness to Jesus Christ in taking and meaningful alternative knowledge and the elements in our his fraternity, in being dedicated lifestyles, we become meaningful and world which build walls, undo “entirely” to the cause of education for sufficiently attractive. The Institute will individuals and destroy nature. Our the poor, and in the stability resulting remake and refound itself, when it excessive endogamy is suffocating from his willingness to be available takes risks, accepts challenges and creativity, our inward focus on “morning noon and night”. He will believes with conviction that it is ourselves is impoverishing our projects. always be a light and a beacon by indeed “God’s work”. In these new Endogamy produces genetic defects, living out the basic values freely and settings also, the Brothers find reasons focus on self brings self-indulgence. joyfully so that his incarnated faith, his to believe and reasons to hope. On the Boldness may lead us to failures, but it shared fraternity and his passionate other hand, I like to give a nuance to is far better to make mistakes when commitment will open up paths to the expression so often used among us trying than to die of boredom. In new worlds and new situations. Our that “this Institute is of very great taking risks we can increase our faith, “common house” that Pope Francis necessity”, as the Founder said. I think and hope can flourish in boldness. It is talks about is the place of encounter, that the feeling that we are necessary a matter of choosing between the only ground possible, the one can make us relax and nod off. We are innovating or disappearing, creating or space for diversified reality, which not necessary, but we can become perishing. makes it possible to construct unity in immensely significant. Strength can diversity. sprout from our weakness, and the conviction that this is “God’s work” can

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