An Act of Hope: Creating Spaces for Invitation and Encounter
By Chris Swain
n Each person has numerous touch points that have given direction to the pathway of their life. In the Lasallian context, each person has a unique journey in how they identify and engage with our Lasallian charism and mission. Lasallian Reflection 7 identifies the Lasallian educational community as a privileged place of affective encounter favorable for human growth. Recognizing this, how is space created for everyone in the community to be encouraged and affirmed in one’s journey, and in doing so, embrace a future filled with hope? In the following stories, the shared experience of Brother and Partner vocation journeys reveal the power of invitation and accompaniment, as well as point us toward practical ways we can walk with one another and young people in our vocation journeys.
Intangible and Inspirational
Margaret Martinez started her Lasallian journey at De La Salle Institute in Chicago, Illinois, as part of the first graduating class that included women. She continued on to Lewis University as an undergraduate and returned to De La Salle as a professional before making her way back to Lewis, where she currently serves.
“I felt the intangibles as a student,” said Martinez, “but when I started to recruit students, I really felt how remarkable the mission is and what makes our charism special.” Martinez points to many who invited her, got her involved, and inspired her.
Margaret Martinez attended De La Salle Institute in Chicago and now serves at Lewis University. Courtesy Lewis University 28 | DE LA SALLE TODAY | SPRING 2022
“Nothing as a young person makes you feel more important than someone who recognizes you, knows your name, and authentically and genuinely cares,” said Martinez, noting how the Brothers at Lewis have been a special source of companionship and prayer. Now associate director of Lewis University’s Office of Mission and Identity, she collaborates on programs that serve the campus community by focusing on vocation and mission. Vocation is woven across the curriculum for students, starting with the first-year student convocation, which includes experiencing the Encounter, a monument
