Journal La Salle 2021, Issue two

JOURNAL “TRANSFORMING LIVES, ENERGISING MISSION, SUSTAINED BY FAITH.”

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FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

Br Rory Higgins FSC (Editor) Dear Readers, What follows is an impressive collection of stories. These stories highlight the good work that has been done and is being done to further the reign of God. Many people have been involved in the telling. You are invited to read one, many or all of what follows. It should be noted the reflections dealing with the 70th anniversary of the beginning of the Lasallian Mission in Papua New Guinea. To limited one’s reading to that story would mean that one would miss so much more from the various articles.

In scanning the contents page which follows will reveal the breadth and depth of what has happened during the year. Much has been accomplished.

Towards the conclusion of the book, “Middlemarch” the writer reflects on the main character of the book, a woman called Dorothea. In some ways Dorothea stands, not just for women, but all of us, as we go about in our work of human and Christian education and welfare.

Dorothea had no dreams of being praised above other women.

Feeling that there was always something better which she might have done if she had only been better and known better, her full nature spent itself in deeds which left no great name on the earth, but the effect of her being on those around her was incalculable.

For the growing good of the world is partly dependent on unhistoric acts and on all those Dorotheas who life faithfully their hidden lives and rest in unvisited tombs.

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CONTENTS

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FORMATION FOR MISSION 2022 FORMATION PROGRAMS RELEASED For several reasons, 2022 promises to be a great year for Formation in the District of Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan and Papua New Guinea. After the pandemic-affected uncertainty which we have all experienced since February 2020, the hope is that 2022 will see a return to pre-COVID conditions. The Formation for Mission Team, including the Young Lasallians Team, comprises: • • • • •

Br Peter Ryan - Director of Formation for Mission Br John Cantwell - Director Emeritus of Formation Mr Philippe Dulawan - Associate Director of Formation for Mission Mr Sebastian Duhau - Young Lasallians Coordinator Mr Damian Khoury - Young Lasallians Coordinator

Aware of this skilful leadership group’s deliberations as planning for the new year has developed, I can confidently advise that the combined creativity, knowledge, expertise and experience of the team has produced a range of formation courses for all Lasallians from the most experienced Brothers and partner colleagues, through to the youngest students in our schools. All Lasallians may now choose from a broad range of formation offerings during 2022 and beyond. I invite you to peruse the Formation program which outlines the array of new and refreshed programs that have been carefully developed. While the Formation Team is based at the La Salle Centre in Sydney, it is mobile and ready to present each and any of the existing or new programs in your location. Or, if desired, the team can design, develop and deliver bespoke programs that suit the individual needs of different schools and works, including those with dual or tripartite charisms.

I invite you to contact members of the team who are available to answer any questions which you may have.

Click HERE to view the Formation program for 2022.

FORMATION FOR MISSION WORKING WITH OTHER CHARISMS AND COMMUNITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE Author: Philippe Dulawan, Associate Director Formation for Mission The Formation for Mission team has had many opportunities to expand into communities outside our own. This has been a fantastic opportunity to remain distinctly Lasallian in our approach and learn from, and with, other communities that serve young people. At the heart of this work has been the desire to help young people in a meaningful way, wherever they may be. One of the gifts of working with a broader set of communities has meant our team have become familiar with more stories that aid in communicating the Gospel message of have “life and life to the full”: In working with Mary Mackillop College in Bathurst and St Joseph’s at Kingswood, the team has learned about the once ex-communicated Australian founder of the Josephite’s, St. Mary Mackillop. One of her mottoes was “to never see a need without doing something about it” has resonated with us as our team continues to accept more and more invitations.

While working with Saint John Paul II College in Riverstone, the theme of forgiveness was explored through the account of the Pope visiting Agca, a man who had shot him. This following quote from John Paul II resonated with us. John Paul II wrote, “God is entrusting to you the task, at once difficult and uplifting, of working with him in the building of the civilization of love.”

In 2022, we look forward to working with McCarthy Catholic College, Tamworth, who are adopting the Lasallian Youth Minister model. Furthermore, Good Samaritan Catholic College on the Sunshine Coast has invited the team to lead student reflection days and the Formation for Mission team to work alongside their staff.

In learning about these different charisms, De La Salle’s statement that God had led him in an “imperceptible way and over a long period so that one commitment led to another in a way that he did not foresee in the beginning” rang true for the team.

Whilst working with these enriching communities, the Formation for Mission team has prided itself in being adaptable and flexible by putting the people we serve first. Starting with the people in mind, we seek to provide authentic experiences of the radical hope, love, joy and fun of Jesus. What this looks, feels and sounds like is as diverse as there is the number of people on the planet.

We understand that although we are all distinctly Lasallian, each community is unique. Culture, demographics, local history are just a few contributing factors. We would love to chat with you about how we can serve your people to enhance the way you live out the mission in your community. To begin the conversation, contact Philippe Dulawan, Associate Director Formation for Mission, on philippedulawan@delasalle.org.au or 0430502692.

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LASALLIAN HERITAGE PROGRAM PROVING TO BE AN INVALUABLE EXPERIENCE Author: Br John Cantwell, Director Emeritus of Formation Santa Teresa Spirituality Centre, on the bay at Ormiston in Brisbane, once again provided the peaceful and appealing environment for Exploring Our Lasallian Heritage, on June 20-23.

Three Assistant Year Directors from St Michael’s College Adelaide, and a Visual Arts and Religious Education teacher from De La Salle College Revesby joined a group of people from several yourtown services: counselling, research, people and culture projects, job placement, talent acquisition, and learning and development, to learn from one another and to reflect on our work as Lasallians.

We shared our experience of the strengths and vulnerabilities of young people, considered some of the relevant research, including the data emerging from young people’s calls and emails to Kids Helpline, and reflected critically on a helpful attempt to define ‘wellbeing’.

As in previous years, a highlight of the program was the visit of Tracy Adams, CEO of yourtown, with Julie Kleidon. Tracy spoke with her accustomed passion and challenge about the stated Lasallian values of yourtown and foreshadowed the imminent listing of another value she recognises as fundamental. We look forward to hearing even more about it!

Tracy’s discussion paved the way for us to give further consideration to Lasallian values, especially as they are evident in the work of yourtown and the two schools represented.

The first years of John Baptist de La Salle’s journey, and the emergence of the first community of Lasallians, provided another perspective from which to consider our values.

We also had a welcome and encouraging visit from Br Tim Peter, Auxiliary Provincial, and well-regarded member of yourtown, who was able to spend some time with the yourtown people and meet some of the school personnel for the first time.

As usual, the program allowed plenty of time for personal relaxation and reflection, as well as the opportunity to get to know one another. One fruit of the personal time was for each of us to commit to actions over the coming weeks that would enhance our own wellbeing, and, also, further the flourishing of a young person or a colleague.

Philippe Dulawan and John Cantwell are grateful not only to the participants, but to Tracy, yourtown managers and college principals who enabled such a great group of people to come together.

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Hear what participants had to say:

“I am feeling grateful for the opportunity to have time to connect with other Lasallians. I have really valued hearing about what yourtown truly is and the role it plays in educating and caring for vulnerable young people. I have been reminded of the importance of having time to replenish and to refill the cup can’t pour from an empty one. Br John and Phil have been glorious so personable, authentic and friendly. It has all just felt so positive, so real. The social aspect combined with some solitude has been perfect. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

“This retreat provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on my personal values and then reflect on the values of Lasallian heritage. The opportunity to stop, reflect and focus on your own wellbeing has also been very valuable. The reminder of who our young people are, their values, concerns and challenges are something that will improve my own practice. Both presenters were fantastic and made the experience very valuable.”

“I was surprised and energised by the flexibility and universality of faith-based discussions (and the openness of the presenters). I am energised to continue to look deeper and find what serves me.”

“A wonderful opportunity to learn more about the Lasallian heritage and how that translates into all of the incredible work that happens through yourtown and the Lasallian schools. Beautifully paced over the course of the three days. It provided me with a chance to rest and reflect. A beautiful location. Thank you for the opportunity.”

“I was surprised and energised by the flexibility and universality of faith-based discussions (and the openness of the presenters). I am energised to continue to look deeper and find what serves me.”

“To be given a safe space to learn and reflect was such a valuable experience for me. The membership of the group was very valuable yourtown (client facing, L&D, corp.) schools. The right pace, content, facilitators. All of the above made a great recipe for success. Thank you.”

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YOUNG LASALLIANS Walking New Path Resources: Programs, Podcast & Keynote On behalf of the ANZPPNG Young Lasallians Team, we send you our warmest wishes. We hope that you are healthy and safe as we continue zoom meetings and phone calls across time zones.

In July 2021, we had hoped to gather as a District with the Lasallian Youth Gathering (LYG), exploring the theme: Walking New Paths. Unfortunately, Covid-19 had other plans which resulted in cancelling the event. As a team, we were saddened, but quickly shifted our focus to find a way to bring LYG to our delegates. Our team has worked with our keynote speakers and turned their messages into video and audio resources. We are so excited to be able to share them with you in this email.

WHAT IS ON OFFER: Programs for local facilitation that can be tailored for your community on: 1.

Pathways (45-minute session)

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Walking New Paths (90-minute session)

A Keynote on Innovation with Br. Arian (30 minutes)

Walking New Paths Podcast Series

Walking New Paths Promotional Material

Each of these resources are available here Walking New Paths Resources or alternatively by copying and pasting the following link into a browser:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Q3uX0vWuY2Z_m_6QBMdtSuSdo90crtfo?usp=sharing

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YOUNG LASALLIANS For Students

The programs and keynote have been designed for engagement with your students when able to gather in person.

It would suit students from Year 10 onwards. They are designed to be facilitated locally complete with all resources, including PowerPoints, videos, booklet and instructions. They would be ideal for Lasallian Youth Leaders (LYLs), youth groups, student leadership teams, and those who could not attend LYG in person.

For Staff and alumni

The Walking New Paths Podcast series is targeted towards the needs of Staff and alumni of all ages. Each episode is conversational in nature and incorporates a featured guest originally invited to speak at LYG. Our line-up includes a DJ, Entrepreneur, CEO, Slam Poet, Parents, Politician, Counsellor and more!

You can access this Podcast on a platform of your choosing using the following link: https://linktr.ee/younglasalliansanzppng

The Young Lasallians would like to thank our featured guests for their willingness to share their life lessons from their own paths. We are incredibly humbled and grateful for their time and energy.

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Jordan Bottalico

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Sandra Duarte

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Brother Arian Lopez

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Efeso Collins

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Qwayne Guevara

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Sara Mansour

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Caitie Humphrys

We also would like to thank each of you for your ongoing encouragement and support as we have persevered to put these resources together for you. It is our hope that these resources, alongside the support of our team will be useful to your Lasallian community in some way. We welcome any questions and feedback that you may have by responding to this email.

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YOUNG LASALLIANS The Young Lasallians Team: Ever-Changing Author: Philippe Dulawan, Associate Director Formation for Mission, Lasallian Mission Services The Young Lasallians Team is an adaptable and responsive team to an ever-changing landscape that bears the privilege and sadness of welcoming and farewelling team members. Due to the nature of this ministry, each shift signifies a new exchange in gifts and skills, new learnings, and the development of our understanding of what it means to be Lasallian.

We take the time to commend the contributions of four such members, Franco De Joya, Sr Theresa Nguyen, Maddy Forde and Zani Bates.

Franco De Joya, Lasallian Volunteer De La Salle, Mangere East (2018) Lasallian Youth Minister, Oakhill College (2019-2021) Franco has given of himself in more ways than one can count. He has shared his gifts as a coach, a video editor, a facilitator, a joyful presence, a leader, and more. He has enlivened and energised numerous Young Lasallians gatherings with his creative gift of poetry. Above all of these accomplishments, what shines through is his heart of service, commitment to excellence, and ability to be his authentic self consistently. It is with great sadness that we farewell Franco. We thank him for his tremendous service and his contribution to various Lasallian communities across our district. We wish him all the best as he steps into the next chapter of his life. In farewelling Franco, we share with you one of the many lessons that he has taught us, in the form of an excerpt from his poem, ‘One’: So when I meet some One; When we start to have a yarn A thread starts to weave in And out of our stories Adding, refining, shaping Multiplying, plussing, relating Details that provide a Better picture of this ONE life that we all share Matt Murrie honouring Franco: Above and beyond

Sr. Theresa Ngyuen Young Lasallians Team Member (2017-2021) Sr Theresa, our team, thank you for your humble, generous and tireless work ethic. All that know Sr Theresa would say she has shared her gift of being a positive and humble presence. Each request, often requiring new skill development, was always met with a smile and a can-do attitude. Sisters’ heart of service allowed her to connect every task to the students served on retreats day. She tirelessly ensured all resources were prepared. Sr Theresa displayed generous hospitality at her time, often bringing homegrown vegetables, fruits and cooked meals to break bread with team members. It has been an honour to witness your path as you have moved countries, taken your final vows and now graduated from your English and Early Child-care course. Our team are excited for you to share your presence with these young people.

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YOUNG LASALLIANS Maddy Forde Young Lasallians Coordinator (2021) Maddy has been instrumental in “Walking new paths” during this turbulent time. Maddy joined the team at Lasalle Centre in November 2020 and relocated from Adelaide. In her time with the team, her Youth Ministry experience has been invaluable to her cohort and in the facilitation of retreats throughout New South Wales. Her passion for first nations people and inclusion has left a depth of awareness and understanding within the team. Maddy leaves the Young Lasallian team to pursue full time her Masters in Social Work. Maddy has also secured a part-time role with Australian Catholic University to set up their Youth Ministry services at their new site in Blacktown. The Lasalle Centre thank Maddy for sharing her talents and gifts with all the team, teachers and students she encountered in her time with the team. We wish Maddy all the best in her future adventures.

Zani Bates Lasallian Youth Minister, Adelaide (2020-2021) Zani has been an incredible force at St Michael’s over the last year and a half, bringing such strength in her relationships with students. She particularly enjoyed connecting with juniors. Her involvement with sports teams and events was worthy of praise. Her deep faith and care for the role benefitted her as she progressed through St Michael’s. We wish Zani success in the pursuit of her nursing career and wish her all the best for her placements!

The Inaugural ANZPPNG Young Lasallians Reference Group June 29, 2021, was a significant time, as zoom hosted the first meeting of the newly formed District of ANZPPNG Young Lasallians Reference Group (YLRG). This 90-minute meeting was a culmination of 18 months of planning. The purpose was to ensure that diverse voices of young people from across the District were heard. The below is an excerpt from the YLRG Charter, the complete charter can be accessed here.

RESPONSIBILITIES Key responsibilities of the ANZPPNG YLRG, subject to directions given by the LMC Board, will include: •

Listening to and amplifying the voices and needs of Young Lasallians in each Sector of the District.

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Providing insight and commentary on District ministries, initiatives and entities including, but not limited to, the LMC Board, La Salle Centre teams, and the District Council.

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YOUNG LASALLIANS •

While members of the YLRG may be involved in specific projects and works in the Lasallian network outside of their role with the Reference Group, it is not a working body charged with responsibility for delivering projects for Young Lasallians. The YLRG is not a decision-making body for Young Lasallians of the District or a Young Lasallian version of a District Council.

This first meeting was insightful and productive. It allowed for several ideas to be stress-tested and refined to incorporate the local realities shared by the members. Thank you to the inaugural members of the ANZPPNG Young Lasallians Reference Group who have volunteered their time and expertise for the next two years. The seven members are: •

Joel Harriss: A well-respected Young Lasallian currently studying Law. He has had a long Lasallian journey as St Bede’s College Captain, a Lasallian Volunteer in Perth and Lasallian Youth Minister at St James College, Bentleigh East. He has a passion for first nations people and continues to volunteer time in an Indigenous boarding house in Melbourne.

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Shantelle Wills: A passionate teacher at St John’s Regional College, Dandenong. Shantelle was a standout candidate for the Young Lasallians Reference Group after witnessing her accompaniment of Year 12 students at their retreat. Shantelle also brings to the group the valuable perspective of a teacher who supports the faith and wellbeing of students in the current climate.

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Br Rehman: A Lasallian Brother who is currently a Principal of a primary school, Director of the Brothers’ community and is the Young Lasallians Coordinator for the Sector of Pakistan. He is a joyful presence and has been involved in the organisation of LYG Pakistan and delegations to District and Regional Gatherings.

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Christopher Tenisio: A leader in his local community of South Auckland and is a former College Captain of De La Salle College, Mangere East and has been the leader of the Uni Lasalle group who have been instrumental in gathering Lasallian Alumni to give back to the school communities. He volunteers his time across many causes including but not limited to Pacific Climate Warriors.

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David Le: A Youth Worker for yourtown in Western Sydney. David has been a wonderful addition at Lasallian Student Leadership Seminar sharing his vocation. David has completed studies at TAFE and University of Sydney in Psychology which has increased his capacity to mentor Lasallian Volunteers placed at yourtown.

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Elizabeth Aribi: The Youth Secretary at Catholic Bishop Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.

Elizabeth graduated from Jubilee Secondary Catholic College, Port Moresby before taking on the role of PNG Lasallian Youth Minister. Later, Elizabeth worked for Transparency International before she entered her current role. Elizabeth remains a supporter of the Lasallian Family in PNG.

The YLRG will meet online 5 times per year. The next two meetings were scheduled for September 14 and November 11.

Please contact Lydia Avia-Aumua if you have any enquiries or submissions for consideration.

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YOUNG LASALLIANS Lasallian Leadership Workshops @ St John’s Regional College, Dandenong Author: Nicole Sikora, Delphinus Captain, St John’s Regional College, Dandenong

Over the course of this year, the leadership team at St John’s Regional College, Dandenong, have been fortunate enough to work with the Lasallian Youth Ministry Team in Sydney.

While the circumstances of this year were not ideal, being able to meet in the friendly environment and with the friendly Lasallian team always helped lift the mood. In our most recent meeting, we explored what success means to us. Many of us found ourselves agreeing that our understanding of success has developed drastically from the beginning of this year. We moved from the mentality of massive successes to appreciating the little successes in life.

The Lasallian workshops were an incredible learning experience and without a doubt helped us all see success, schooling and life from different perspectives.

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LASALLIAN VOLUNTEERS Lydia Avia- Aumua to conclude her tour of duty with Lasallian Mission Services It is with profound regret that I write announcing that Lydia will conclude her tour of duty with Lasallian Mission Services in January 2022.

We were excited when Lydia commenced with us in November 2020. That etx citement was soon matched by an appreciation of her warm interpersonal and relationship- building skills. Lydia’s graciousness and twinkle in the eye style invariably invited welcome and rapport.

It also became apparent that Lydia was a wise and skillful professional. Her skills were regularly put to good use across the District. When managing the challenges of leadership, she showed sincere concern for every individual with whom she worked or provided supervision, either at the La Salle Centre, or in more distant locations. She intuitively appreciated that the bedrock of good leadership was the establishment of quality relationships, and in that domain Lydia excelled. We were all better for having those interactions with her.

It has not been an easy decision for Lydia, nor has it been an easy one for her friends and colleagues to hear. We will always be grateful for Lydia’s time with us. We benefitted, all of us, in ways personal and professional. She taught us and touched us. She leaves with our deepest appreciation of the personal and professional gifts she shared.

Lydia will not be lost to the Lasallian world. She will return to yourtown in Brisbane at the conclusion of her work at the La Salle Centre.

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High School, Lasallian Volunteering and Youth Ministry

LASALLIAN VOLUNTEERS Author by Josh Cant

I would like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands in which I have volunteered, worked, and studied on whilst in the Lasallian Community, the Bunurong, Wurundjeri, Darug, Eora, Dharawal and Kukatja people. I pay my respects to their elders past, present and emerging.

I’m Josh. I first became part of the Lasallian community when I started Year 7 at St James College in Bentleigh East. Little did I know that those formative years of high school would help shape not only my high school experience but, in the years following school. In Year 10, I was privileged to visit Wirrimanu (Balgo) which broadened my perspectives of the diverse Lasallian community of which I am a part. Once I graduated from school, I moved to the Bankstown community in western Sydney, where I worked with yourtown and Lasalle Catholic College, Bankstown.

In 2018, I began a science degree in Melbourne. There, I joined the Youth Ministry Team at St Bede’s College, Mentone where I currently work. I live with my parents, four siblings and our two cats, Teddy and Smudge. When I’m not working, I like to go to Wilson’s Promotory, walk my cats or go for a run!

My role as a Youth Minister over the years has ensured that I have been able to participate in a wide range of activities and experiences. I have enjoyed getting involved in some of the larger district events, such as Camp Lasalle and Lasallian Youth Gatherings. These have been wonderful opportunities to meet amazing people from around the district and hear about the awesome work they do for young people in their communities.

Walking alongside Lasallian Youth Leaders through their later years of schooling is rewarding. Together, we facilitate and coordinate retreat days for junior students. Retreat programs enable students to take a step back, relax and reflect. I love the opportunities that retreats present for community and the chances to see students step out of their comfort zone or engage and discuss issues that are important for them.

Youth Ministry at Mentone has an ever-changing nature. Over the years, despite being in the same role it constantly changes.

Depending on the needs of the school community, I might find myself in a busy retreat delivery season, joining camps, filming, and editing video messages or even simply being present in the classroom.

I’ve learned so much from my time at Mentone! I feel like I have learned a lot about myself, who I am and about what I am passionate. The value of education and community continues to astound me throughout various challenges and highlights of life. I’ve learned that it is important to build relationships to ensure a wide-ranging approach to care, ministry and support of young people.

With just a few weeks left of a huge school year, I am looking forward to a break over the warmer months and kicking off the 2022 school year with the Lasallian Student Leadership Seminar. Ultimately, with another year of Youth Ministry almost done, I eagerly looking forward to spending time in community with teachers, Lasallian Youth Leaders, students, and those from around the Lasallian Community – there’s always something to learn!

What will your day-to-day duties include?

As an education and emotional support person, I will be working with the Indigenous students who are boarders at the College. I will also escort them on outings and accompany them in their various experiences.

What made you consider doing a year of volunteering in 2022?

I wanted to take a GAP year and thought this would be an excellent opportunity to experience something new and rewarding. I know that in the future I want to go into a field of work where I can help others. With that thought, I felt this pathway was a perfect first step on that journey.

What are you most looking forward to?

There are three factors. There is meeting the new challenge of living out of home for the first time. A second factor is encountering a new environment where I can meet and work with new people and thirdly, I am looking forward to learning about the students and hearing their stories.

What have you learnt in your time at SJRC that will help you in this year of service?

SJRC has taught me to treat everyone with dignity and respect, and to allow people a safe space to share their story. I have learnt the value of resilience and empathy.

What a fine example of Lasallian values in action: Virtis in Astra Tendit, service, community and servant leadership.

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LASALLIAN VOLUNTEERS An invaluable experience, one that I’ll forever be grateful for Author: Ms Gabby Russo, Marketing & Community Liaison Coordinator - Oakhill College Andy Carloss wasn’t sure what he was going to do after Year 12. He had been a Lasallian Youth Leader and enjoyed the opportunities that this had given him, such as going on the Indian Immersion trip, visiting the Anglicare Retirement Village regularly, being involved in the special swimming team as well as school camps and reflection days. He had enrolled in nursing at university but was feeling undecided about this decision and was thinking about other opportunities.

With a bit of encouragement from his mum and Youth Ministers, Andy applied to be part of the Lasallian Volunteers Program. He had his doubts as it is a significant upheaval to leave the security and familiarity of one’s home life, as well as all one’s friends, but he took the leap of faith and applied. Looking back, Andy says it was the best thing he ever did. He was posted to an all-boys’ school - De La Salle College, Mangere, South of Auckland, NZ for eleven months. De La Salle College, Mangere is in an underprivileged school whose students come from primarily Pacific Island nations. The culture and size of the students were vastly different from that of what Andy had seen in Sydney, but Andy embraced being with these boys who were gentle giants. Living with the Brothers and being with the students, he enjoyed his new way of life, made strong connections with the community, and felt that he was getting more personally out of the experience that he was putting in. He thrived on the chance to serve others. Upon arrival, he started working immediately with Year 7 and 8 boys who had special needs with literacy.

Also, within the volunteer program, you can choose a particular interest area, which for Andy was hospitality and sport, both of which he got the chance to teach and play regularly with the students.

While at the College, Andy also became a Debating Coach. Having no prior experience of debating, he threw himself into the challenge. He was unsure of how to proceed, but he enjoyed it and learned a lot about himself and his capabilities.

He ran ‘trial debates’ for students to practice before the event and enjoyed coaching the boys and watching them develop and grow. This experience extended Andy and it gave him new-found confidence. It had taken him out of his comfort zone. Seeing the boys exceed expectations was another highlight. Out of 110 teams, Andy’s team came fourth, which was unexpected for the students come from a low decile school. Andy’s team were also awarded as the top team in South Auckland.

During his time away, Andy was also given the opportunity to travel to Saint Paul VI College, a Lasallian partner school in Samoa. There, he was able to experience village life, continue running retreats, perform Samoan dancing and continue to immerse himself and give back to the community. This school has now become the first De La Salle school in Samoa and continues the education and service of the De La Salle Brothers.

Andy has learnt so much from his experiences overseas. An important part is the strong community and values that the students in these schools hold. The ‘brotherhood’ is something that is talked about but more importantly is lived every day. Everything the boys do is for each other. If they go and buy food, it’s not just for them, it’s for everyone, if someone achieves, its everyone’s achievement. There is a real sense of ‘brotherhood’ among the boys. They look out for each, and this continues after school. The alumni have a powerful connection with De La Salle, Mangere as well. They return to mentor students in the school to ensure they are heading in the right direction.

Andy’s experience overseas gave him the time and clarity to realise that he didn’t want to go into a career in nursing as he had previously thought but wanted to teach. Andy now attends ACU and is studying to become a high school teacher.

Andy’s advice for anybody who is thinking of taking this opportunity is to volunteer- just do it. The opportunity to serve, putting others before yourself and accepting new challenges has been an invaluable experience. It is something for which I’ll will be forever grateful.

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LASALLIAN FOUNDATION / TWINNING De La Salle Day @ St Michael’s College, Adelaide Primary Campus De La Salle Day is a very important day in the College calendar because celebrate the life of St John Baptist de La Salle, Founder of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, a Saint of the Catholic Church, and Patron of Christian Teachers.

Over the years, this day has evolved into a wonderful celebration of De La Salle’s legacy to us when students from the Primary and Secondary campuses come together. Unfortunately, this year circumstances precluded us from gathering at the Secondary Campus. However, we celebrated the day at the Primary Campus with lots of fun activities, inflatables and musical entertainment which was provided by our Stage Band, Rock Band and Percussion Ensemble. Our Year 6 students provided great leadership and support in running fundraising activities which included “Guess the Snakes in the Jar” and a Zooper Dooper stall.

Students also enjoyed a complimentary sausage sizzle and fruit box. The Primary Campus raised $976.10 from gold coin donations and various fundraising activities. We would like to thank all students, staff and parents for their support for making this a very enjoyable day.

The money raised will be donated to support the work of the De La Salle Brothers working in underprivileged schools and orphanages overseas.

Mr Damian McNamara, Director – Student Wellbeing & Administration – Primary Secondary Campus It was great to celebrate De La Salle Day this year, albeit in a slightly different format. The day started with a liturgy in Founders Hall, which explained why we celebrate the day and reinforced how significant it is for our College community.

A true highlight was seeing the Year 12’s get into the spirit of the day and dress up in some hilarious costumes which provided great entertainment for students and staff, as well as some comic relief for the Year 12’s at a busy time in their school year. The Year 7’s and 8’s were able to participate by helping choose the “best costume” in a lively session in Founders Hall.

The inaugural De La Salle Day Quiz was beamed into classes, where students from Year 7 to 12 competed for a pizza lunch prize. The Quiz, based on popular culture, brought back some wonderful memories of songs, TV shows and movies that parents may well remember listening to and watching with their kids when they were younger.

The break times featured great music performances from some of our talented music students, with a variety of amazing food on offer for the students to purchase.

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LASALLIAN FOUNDATION / TWINNING We pride ourselves at St Michael’s in trying to establish positive working relationships between staff and students and De La Salle Day was a great experience for us to enjoy together and share a common appreciation for being part of the global Lasallian community.

Mr Sam Kitschke, Director – Pastoral – Secondary

College Captains’ De La Salle Day Address Each year, the College Captains at St Michael’s College Adelaide address the school community on De La Salle Day. Below is an excerpt that I would encourage all to read: Good morning, everyone! Welcome to De La Salle Day – 2021!

It is incredible to be able to stand in front of you all again, after another crazy, unpredictable year, with all that’s going on in the world and be reminded of how lucky we are to be a part of such an inclusive, fun, rewarding Lasallian community… a culture so steeped in tradition, yet relevant to us all today.

Now we know that most of you have heard the story of our Founder, St John Baptist de La Salle before, but today we celebrate the achievements of the Lasallian Brothers and the story of how their determination and resilience left a lasting legacy on our world. Saint John Baptist believed that education gave hope and opportunity for all people to lead a life of dignity and freedom, which could not be more relevant to the world today. He dedicated his life to education and training teachers to be role models, have strong leadership skills and teach with purpose and passion. He saw value in the experience and passions of every person, no matter their status, and gave dignity to those who had lost it. The forming Brothers provided a modern education (for the time), to many homeless children, allowing them to become inspired, and take on a completely new, positive way of life.

As Lasallians, we are challenged to reach out and help others, no matter their circumstances. At St Michael’s, individuality and uniqueness are embraced. Within the fences that encase our school, we see elite sportspeople, talented musicians, tradespeople, artists, writers, future lawyers, doctors, police officers, and others with their own, unique paths. Many children around the world do not experience the simple joys of childhood and youth due to poverty, war, sickness and other terrible circumstances that we could never even fathom. So, instead of taking our incredible place in the world for granted, we must grab life with both hands, dare to dream, and breathe in this wonderful elixir that was part of a Lasallian vision 300 years ago. Let us remind you that youthfulness is not necessarily about the years counted on the old-o-meter, but it is about the spirit and passion that radiates when we embrace the gifts of nature, community and love. We must take leaps of faith, get out of our comfort zone, and find our own, unique purpose and mission. So today, in what we like to call the ‘festival of youth,’ we hope you can get out of your comfort zone, and participate in as many of today’s activities as you can, whilst remembering the values of inclusivity and uniqueness.

One of the most important aspects of human spirit is dignity. Dignity means to be respected and valued for who you are, what you believe in, and how you live your life. Simply put, treating other people with dignity means treating people the way we would like to be treated, something that we, as a College, hold in very high regard. Importantly, dignity is part of the glue that holds many of our relationships together.

The mutual recognition between one another about their desire to be heard, seen, listened to, treated fairly; to be understood, recognised and to feel safe in this world allows us to feel a sense of freedom,

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LASALLIAN FOUNDATION / TWINNING a sense of independence and a life filled with opportunity, hope and possibility. This directly relates to what De La Salle intended with the Brothers and his teachings: to give the less fortunate the opportunity to achieve their dreams, to help people understand that they are indeed worth something, that their current situation does not define who they can become. At St Michael’s, we aim to live this ideology dayto-day in the way that we treat one another and the value we place on our opportunities.

The mutual recognition between one another about their desire to be heard, seen, listened to, treated fairly; to be understood, recognised and to feel safe in this world allows us to feel a sense of freedom, a sense of independence and a life filled with opportunity, hope and possibility. This directly relates to what De La Salle intended with the Brothers and his teachings: to give the less fortunate the opportunity to achieve their dreams, to help people understand that they are indeed worth something, that their current situation does not define who they can become. At St Michael’s, we aim to live this ideology dayto-day in the way that we treat one another and the value we place on our opportunities.

To the younger year levels, you are on the road to becoming the person you are choosing to be. In doing this, you will meet people of all ages, with different life stories, varying backgrounds, with different views and values. We challenge you to be curious. We challenge you to use your voice. We challenge you to take hold of your Lasallian education, which is teaching you to be the uplifting, resilient, strong-minded person that you are, and will continue to be.

To the Year 12’s, this year has brought us all closer together, solidifying our friendships, and teaching us resilience that we will take with us into a bright future. We are just so proud of you. Let’s smash next term and exams!

Moving forward, we hope to keep these themes of dignity, youth, individuality and diversity in the forefront of our minds. We are challenged to open our hearts and minds to the opportunities that present themselves when we begin to explore the wonderful, individual, diverse journeys of the people that surround you.

Alice Kneebone and Sebastian Leaney

Funds The funds raised will be allocated to the following projects: •

$20,000 to Albans Boys and Girls High School, Multan (classroom furniture and computer lab upgrade)

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$17,000 to La Salle Urdu High School, Faisalabad (equipment replacement)

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$20,000 to La Salle Technical College, Hohola, (textbooks)

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$13,000 to be allocated later to one or more projects in PNG or Pakistan.

Each of these projects will benefit poor and disadvantaged students in Pakistan and Papua New Guinea. The funds that we raised will make a difference, not only to the current cohort of students but students in the coming years.

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LASALLIAN FOUNDATION / TWINNING De La Salle College Revesby raised money for Twinned School Recently, De La Salle Catholic College Revesby celebrated its annual Founder’s Day to celebrate our Lasallian history and to raise funds for Jubilee Catholic High School, Hohola, a Lasallian school in Papua New Guinea. The students and staff of Jubilee are most grateful for our assistance in providing high education resources as their education system expands.

The day began with a beautiful Mass celebrated by Father Salas and a reflection on being a Lasallian by Br Adrian Watson. Brothers Collin Griffin and Paul Rogers were in attendance, while Mr Merv McCormack, Executive Director of Lasallian Mission Council spoke to the community and gave a moving tribute to Mr Logue.

Prior to the Mass, Mrs Collins (Lasallian Facilitator) had prepared a video which informed the students about how their fundraising money would make a difference in the lives of others. The reflection video was prepared by Juan (Lasallian Youth Minister), and it highlighted the theme for the year and how it is lived out at the College.

At the conclusion of the Mass, a number of boys were recognized for their special contribution to ‘Christian Mission, faith in action.’ They received a Lasallian star from Mr McCormack and Mr Logue. Fr Salas also commissioned our new Lasallian Youth Leaders who are charged with bringing to life this mission of caring for the last, the lost and the least and also leading retreats and assisting with social justice initiatives. The Lasallian tradition at the College, takes to heart the care for the “last, the lost and the least”. A day like Founder’s Day connects students to this charism and provides an opportunity for the boys to live out the three Lasallian pillars of Faith, Service and Community.

After Mass, we set up food stalls and a variety of activities including inflatable rides to raise much needed funds. The boys participated wholeheartedly in the day’s events which culminated in a Year 12 house vs house obstacle course.

Many thanks to all the staff and students for your participation, great school spirit and organisation of the day.

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LASALLIAN FOUNDATION / TWINNING “They have nowhere else to go”: Lasallian schools and kids Generosity is a much used and hyped word. Nevertheless, it links a Lasallian boarding school in Taranaki Province, New Zealand with boys from a small and disadvantaged school in one of the neighbourhoods of Faisalabad, Pakistan. Both schools take their inspiration from a generous and saintly Christian.

Francis Douglas College (FDMC), named after the Columban missionary priest who gave his life in the Philippines, began his mission with youth there: “They’re the future of the Church here, and they also seem the best avenue to reaching other people” he said. As the Japanese invaded in 1940, he said of the young: “They have nowhere else to go - nor do I”. Beaten, and subjected to ‘water torture’ he was presumably martyred in 1943.

Each year the College calls on its students’ generosity to supplement the Lasallian Mission in a ‘twinned school” of poorer youth in Pakistan. Ms. Anna Zsigovits-Mace (Director of Religious Studies) takes up the story: “Today we remember his sacrifice. Brother Julian (founding Principal) chose the three colours of FDMC in 1959 as cardinal (red) for the sacrifice of Fr. Frank… blue for his devotion to Mary, Our Lady, and gold for his glory with God in heaven.

Thank you to the boys and their families who raised funds for our twinned school, La Salle Malkhanwala, Faisalabad, and thank you to those who brought coins today. While we have all found things difficult in these pandemic times, we know that our Lasallian siblings who attend Malkhanwala are in need of basic necessities such as cool water in the intense summer heat.

In most years, after our Liturgy, we participate in a Haka competition and a sponsored run but, owing to lockdown, this was not possible this year. Instead, our Year 13 Leaders organised tabloid sports activities, and a fun scavenger hunt. It involved looking for Lasallian Stars around our school. We also placed our donations in the Lasallian Star and we all stood around it, as the drone took a photo from above.

Similar generosity and inspiration, coming from St. John Baptist de La Salle’s concern for youth, extend to La Salle school in Malkhanwala. It was founded by the De La Salle Brothers in 2008 for disadvantaged Christian boys in an outer suburb of Faisalabad.

Generously helped originally by the Lasallian Foundation Australia with infrastructure and student scholarships, the recent twinning with FDMC, under the aegis of the Lasallian Mission Council, ensures development and a sense of partnership with our brothers and sisters in Pakistan and New Zealand. With all our efforts, Friday, 1st of October 2021 was an enjoyable, generous and involving Mission Action Day in New Plymouth, New Zealand.

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NEWS FROM THE BROTHERS Being Brother- taking a road less travelled How many years does it take to become a doctor, lawyer, priest?

Perhaps five, seven years of concentrated immersion in training, within a defined community. Not only knowledge and skills are acquired, but solid human values -attitudes, a sense of belonging and service - as one absorbs the “culture” of a profession. The De La Salle Brother experiences this as well.

VOCATION Being a religious Brother starts with an attraction to a way of life, for a multiplicity of reasons. They could include a desire to serve youth, to take up teaching, to find meaning in one’s life and to find God. It is important for the person to reflective, that is, to discover what are the major motives for wanting to become a Brother. The person needs to ask if he believes God is calling him to be a Brother. This requires some soul-searching.

“A person can be “inspired” by a community, a group of Brothers, or by something, or Someone, from within the heart.

There is a sense of being enlivened by a spirit – a spirit of faith and an enthusing zeal for the work”.

The vocation-finding process seems like a sifting through, chewing over, being drawn deeper. Ultimately, for a De La Salle Brother, it means making a decision; just as equally the Brothers decide that the person asking has the qualities needed to grow into being “Brother”.

CHANGE & MATURITY A candidate can experience a change of heart, a commitment to growth, a progressive “walking” with others, twists and turns, ease and difficulties - all the time exploring the landscape. There is often a transformation, as Brothers believe they are following their “elder brother” Jesus - becoming a deeper, more spiritually-focused person, as a human being, and a closer disciple of Jesus, as a Christian. This in order to ‘brother’ other Brothers, and to be a brother to one’s students, especially the marginalised ones.

RELIGIOUS FORMATION Stages on the road to be a Brother involve structures of “formation”, including an “aspirancy” which is an initial stage of searching and finding out more about the life of the Brothers. After the aspirancy there is what is called the “postulancy” where one asks to enter the Institute of the Brothers, as one hopefully matures psychologically in a community. This enriches his Christian faith. There is also training experience in schools. Authenticity and growing maturity are central.

A third stage is the spiritual year called the Novitiate. It needs to be seen that the person is authentic and mature enough. If he is, then he begins his novitiate and he receives the Brothers’ religious habit. He wears it as a sign - of his spiritual attitude, of having as one model Jesus Christ, and to acquire the spirit of St. John Baptist de La Salle. Aspects are handing over one’s life to God, living in a Brothers’ community, and growing in his energy to educate, especially struggling children.

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NEWS FROM THE BROTHERS The Novice (the learning /training Brother) explores and gains deeper self-knowledge. He understands more the “religious life” within the Catholic tradition, which includes growing in prayer, and expanding knowledge of the Scriptures, theology and ministry to youth. As he draws more deeply into his relationship with Jesus, he decides whether he wishes to take his “First Vows” (solemn religious promises) at the end of his Novitiate year. This commitment is for one year. It involves much reflection and prayer, and “accompaniment” with the Brother who is the Director of the Novitiate Community. The Institute decides, too, if the Novice is suitable and can be accepted as a fullyfledged Brother.

Appointed to a “Scholastic” or host Community, the Brother continues travelling the road of religious life, as a De La Salle Brother, deepening his spirituality and his secular knowledge / skill base. Growth and transformation happen with others. Younger Brothers are “accompanied” by many others, as they move forward. Tertiary education involves spiritual courses, teaching and religious education units, and personal development seminars. They may be city, national or internationally based.

In Pakistan, a growth area in the District, the three men above in initial training, took the next step on their unique roads. Br. Shahzad Gill, Pakistan Sector Coordinator, noted that the two novices Brs. Adan and Nabeel, in Gurjanwala, coped bravely with presentations from the Philippines PARC Novitiate, studying virtually, often at 4am! Jabran, as a postulant, lived and studied in Khushpur community.

At the same time, seven young Brothers “renewed their vows” for one year in the Institute.

Being a member of the “Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools” has advantages, but also obligations for ongoing religious, professional and personal formation. The mission, a service within the Catholic Church, is to be teacher-brothers to youth.

Being a Brother is travelling on an adventurous road with wide horizons.

Br Maurice Salmon: “The Spirit Moving In Me” (Br. Maurie, now in his nineties gave an entertaining interview on 30 October, showing his sharp memory and broad, humane outlook) Marrickville in Sydney’s inner west prides itself on its beguiling multicultural features and its immigrant background. It is also a storied locale for working-class Catholic history in the Passionist parish The Catholic schools were conducted by the Good Samaritan Sisters and the De La Salle Brothers. Brother Maurie Salmon, as he is known, came from those crowded streets.

The third of seven siblings, six boys and one sister, He was baptized with the name of Daniel.

When he joined the Brothers, he received the religious name of Brother Maurice. As a boy, he knew what it was like to get in, and make do, during the Depression days of the 1930’s. He knew the embarrassment of his dad’s repairs on his shoes. Daniel grew academically at De La Salle College, a school which opened in 1932. The formidable and imposing personality of Br. Peter Duffy as Principal was remembered by Daniel and many others.

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NEWS FROM THE BROTHERS The family was quite religious: an aunt was a very spiritual woman, and Daniel’s mother reckoned, when the curiosity of male circumcision happened to be raised, assured her offspring that “if it’s good enough for Jesus, it’s good enough for my children!” The solid working-class status of the family required his father to do double shifts as a taxi driver, to the extent of helping to pay a contribution at young Daniel’s entrance to the Brothers’ training college at Castle Hill in 1943.

War years in the training house meant self-reliance in the rural setting about 12 kilometers north of Parramatta. The produce to feed 15–18-year-old boys came from the pigs and cows on the farm, the poultry yard, and the vegetable patches. When Daniel, now Br. Maurice, was posted, at 18 years of age, to Katoomba in the cool wintry Blue Mountains, he noticed that his “Letter of Obedience” had scrubbed out a well-known Brothers’ college in Ashfield, Sydney.

Acceptance, whatever was asked of an assignment, was par for the course, in the spirit of the vow of obedience.

Maurice must have made a strong impression as a teacher and Brother, for the following year, 1947, he was appointed back to Castle Hill as the ‘Prefect of Junior Novices’ for two years. At nineteen, he was teaching boys, some two years junior to himself. His talents were noted, for in 1953 he was posted as one of three pioneer Brothers to Aotearoa New Zealand, in the small town of Blenheim. It was a taxing three years for – as he says - “a fiercely independent” young man, living with two older Brothers, in the cloistered regime of religious life at that time.

Thirteen fulfilling years at the Brothers’ second foundation at Mangere (Auckland) followed: it was a broader field of ministry. Maurie called them “wonderful years”- of wider relationships and fraternal activity. The community cook, observing him returning from school with a mountain of students’ books to correct, said to him ““so that’s how you get to heaven!” A sadness came with news of his mother’s death. It was the same lady cook who arranged his flight home for the funeral.

As a young Australian Brother working overseas, he says that “I am the sole survivor of that (Blenheim) community, and I am both proud and grateful for having been part of what has become such a successful and fruitful sector of our District, producing such Brothers as David Hawke, our present Visitor, Sir Patrick Lynch, both of whom were my students at De La Salle, Mangere, Peter Bray (President of Bethlehem University) and others”.

When asked the big question of why become a teaching Brother, and bear with the sacrifices and vicissitudes of that life, he could say in his forthright way that it was “my way of getting to heaven, with whatever was required in the lifestyle”.

One such hardship was a year looking after feisty, boisterous boarders in an Australian country school, where the facilities were becoming somewhat rundown, and staff hard to find. When a confrere said, “we always think things are worse than they are”, his thought was that his plight “was far worse than I could ever imagined!”

Br. Maurice’s capabilities were highly recognised, with appointments over nineteen years following, as Principal of three De La Salle schools at Revesby, Lithgow and Bankstown, in succession. He understood that educational leadership was demanding in its execution, and he stood the course for two decades. There was the reality of considered collaboration, and the needful delegation of duties. One huge task was always finding adequate professional staff.

As for in-service and pre-service training, Maurice emphasizes the critical need for exposure to teaching and the local school system for aspiring teachers, with the thought that “accountability has gone to the extremes, with more precedence to it, than the job itself ” through the growth of bureaucracy. This view is heard from other seasoned teachers.

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NEWS FROM THE BROTHERS Moved to the somewhat idyllic setting of De La Salle College, Cronulla in 1992, he took up enthusiastically the tutoring of mathematics with senior students until 2010. There was even introducing one student to Latin, which he wanted to present later at the HSC. The Catholic boy told his father it was like going to Confession to a priest!

Those senior years saw Maurie offer service as the Spiritual Director of the local St Vincent de Paul Society. In his later years of life, he has relaxed with a compatible number of other retired Brothers, as well as persevering through health problems.

At 94 years of age, and the District’s second-oldest Brother, his world has changed massively over the decades. What has remained constant has been what a religious vocation is all about: “doing what you believed you were called for, despite all the ups and downs” …no big flashes of insight – but the “spirit that was moving in me”

Br. Mark McKeon: A Boring Life? No Way! Religious involvement can be seen by some cultures as mindnumbing or foolish. In others, it is a badge of honour and commitment. Brother Mark, a proud Queenslander, proves the lie to the former, when one explores his ministry in four very different nations.

His early years were spent in outer Brisbane. There he took in the spirit of the De La Salle Brothers from Grade 4. He says that “initially what drew me to the Brothers as a way of life was my experience of the Brothers who taught me at Scarborough. They were “relate-able” and showed an interest in us as students.

“I remain a Brother because I love being a Brother and all that it entails. I value living in a community of men who show genuine care and concern for each other”.

Almost forty years ago, after studying commerce and history, Mark was told to teach drama at De La Salle College, Malvern. “It taught me to expect the unexpected. More unexpected events have come my way in my life as a teacher in being asked to be a part of the inaugural Brothers’ community at Tapini High School in the Goilala area of Papua New Guinea. Aside from the fact that there was no electricity, what touched me deeply was the enthusiasm and the gratitude of the students”. His healthy interest in fitness led to his training champion cross-country teams!

Appointed to the very Lasallian work at BoysTown, Queensland, for disadvantaged boys referred by the courts, Mark then moved to Aotearoa New Zealand, for seven fruitful years as Director of Religious Studies at Mangere and New Plymouth.

Growing interest and skill in youth ministry, led to his appointment in 1999 to Oakhill College, Castle Hill, where for four years he pioneered a program of senior student Lasallian Youth Leaders (LYL), instrumental in providing retreat opportunities for students in Years 7-10, and in promoting service programs. These have now been copied and embedded in most schools of the District, with 26 Youth Ministers animating the student LYL activities. They are a vital part of Lasallian Mission Services.

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NEWS FROM THE BROTHERS As District Youth Ministry Co-ordinator (2004-08), Youth Ministers were being increasingly employed and animated

by Mark and school Principals. He was fully involved too with the “Share the Mission”, Volunteers and in Vocation Promotion. He recalls his many visits to Lasallian schools, sharing his passion for the Brothers’ life. His standing among the Brothers was such, that he was selected by the Visitor of the time as his Auxiliary for four years.

Br. Mark talks often of “brotherhood”, “relationships” and “witness” which he offered at the Lasallian Bethlehem University. A highlight of his life, he found here a rich experience of genuine welcome, and being “at home”. An experience too of serving the vibrant and disadvantaged Palestinian youth with their ideals and struggles. From 201417, as Vice President of Human Resources, he led the Student Ambassadors, who greeted the many pilgrim groups that visited the University, themselves a shining light for an emerging Palestinian state.

As Lasallians we regularly pray, ‘Live Jesus in our hearts forever’ ... the marginalized, ignored, and abandoned are present in our existing Lasallian communities. We are called to be attentive to their presence. At the same time these forgotten people are living struggling lives beyond our communities and we need to discern ways to reach out to them.”

Now back in his old stamping ground, Auckland, his talents and experience across several countries led to employment in Holy Cross Seminary, as Director of Pastoral and Human Formation. This area of formation is strongly encouraged for priests-in-training by Pope Francis. The diverse 16 seminarians come from the six dioceses of New Zealand. For Mark, his work emphasises the importance of emotional intelligence and self-knowledge. It is all about healthy relationships. His qualification in spiritual accompaniment is an asset that complements his relaxed and personable style.

When asked about the challenges for church today, Br. Mark emphasises “going to the margins of society and serving Jesus in every person who is marginalized, ignored, and abandoned. As Lasallians, we regularly pray, ‘Live Jesus in our hearts forever’. (These people)... are present in our existing Lasallian communities. We are called to be attentive to their presence. At the same time these forgotten people are living struggling lives beyond our communities, and we need to discern ways to reach out to them”.

A boring life? No way.

Nabeel Pius: ‘being Brother today’ Nabeel, a young Pakistani man, had a career choice a few years ago, when at La Salle Urdu High School in the vibrant city of Faisalabad. He decided to explore the possibility of becoming a De La Salle Brother. Currently, he is on a lifejourney, as he is a ‘novice Brother’ in the Brothers’ community at Gujranwala, close to the important city of Lahore.

The Brothers worldwide have always invited young men to think about, and test out, becoming one of their fraternity.

In Pakistan, it was formalised in 1984 when a training house was opened, called St. Miguel Aspirancy. The residence is named after St. Miguel who was a 19th century Ecuadorian Brother, canonised by the Catholic Church, and renowned for his work in “formation” (pre-service training) for aspiring Brothers. Each year about fifteen older teenagers in Miguel House study for their final secondary schooling, and then complete a university college for a first degree in humanities or sciences. If they succeed, and have solid religious motivations, they ask to become a novice Brother. They engage in a year’s community learning, and taking on the heart, mind and spirit of the Brothers’ “vocation” which is a calling by God.

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NEWS FROM THE BROTHERS Nabeel was asked some questions by our Communications Office: Q. Provide an introduction Life before coming a Brother, school, family etc.

I was studying in the La Salle Campus 2 Faisalabad. After my matriculation I decided to join the Brothers. I am youngest in my family, with four brothers, who all married. I shared my desire with my family. They said yes - happily for me - to join the La Salle Brothers. When I was in the school, I saw the Brothers and I was inspired by the Brothers, so that was the moment when this desire came in my heart to join the Brothers.

Q. Where did your Lasallian connection begin?

This connection begins when I was in the hostel (St. Miguel Aspirancy House). I used to go to the Brothers’ house chapel to pray and attend Holy Mass everyday with them. One day, after the holy Mass, I saw two Brothers walking together, and I decided I wanted to be like them.

This was the definite moment when I decided to join the Brothers’ life.

Q. So far, what has been your favourite moment as a Brother?

So far, as a Brother, I have had many favourite moments. I always enjoy the company of the Brothers. I always enjoy our community prayers, and I enjoy how we Brother always help one another. But the most favourite moment is last year when I received my Holy Habit. It is a white robe which says that I am a La Salle Brother).

Q. What is your role at the moment? And what does that involve?

Right at this moment I am 28 years old, and a novice Brother. After 2 months I will make my first vows. I am happy with my virtual novitiate program. every day I am learning a lot. The Novitiate is ‘virtual’, in that other Asian Novices are based in the Philippines, and the two Pakistani Novices have regular zoom sessions with the base.

Q. What advice would you give to someone thinking of becoming a Brother?

My advice to others is it’s cool to be a Brother. The Brother vocation is really a unique vocation, and our mission as Brother it’s totally the work of God. If we say yes to God, then we will get many blessings and gifts from God. Q. Are there any goals you’d like to achieve over the next 6 months or the year, in your role?

I specially want to continue my academic study and at the same time I am ready to work in the school to help our Brothers, our teachers and students. I want to know God, and to make deeper my relationship with Him. Q. Who is the biggest influence on your life at the moment?

Well, there number of people but the most important or biggest is God, and our Founder and Father Saint John Baptist de LaSalle. Then, the Brothers from Pakistan and from Australia because so far, I am able to meet with Brothers of two countries. When I look at them, I want to be like them, to serve others, and to a be good and faithful Brother with my responsibilities. As well, it is a unique time to enjoy my prayer life and all the time feel his holy presence.

Q. If you had to give advice to your younger self, what would you say?

I would like to say always keep patient. Trust in God, always be faithful, and try to know what is God’s will for you, and just follow that, because I believe God has always plans for us.

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NEWS FROM THE BROTHERS A young Brother today Adan, a member of the Pakistan Sector of the District, was interviewed a few months ago, as a Novice. He pronounced his first vows on August 6, 2021, at age of 22 years. He is now a Student Brother at Multan. His ‘Novitiate’ with several other Asian novices was formally in the Philippines, but due to COVID, he and a fellow Pakistani novice lived in the Brothers’ community at Gujranwala, near Lahore. They participated in many activities virtually, via the internet.

Q. Provide an introduction – Life before coming a Brother, School, Family etc Hello Everyone! I am Adan Malik. We are five members in my family, and I am the middle of three brothers. I was born and raised a Catholic. I am native of Faisalabad Punjab, Pakistan. I am a graduate. Currently I am pursuing being a Novice of the Brothers of the Christian Schools at La Salle PARC Novitiate; the pinnacle will be making my first vows (in our Institute). I have completed my schooling at the Lasallian school in my native place. I have a perspective beyond the usual, and I am passionate about pursuing goals beyond my comfort zone. I am keen learner. I am good in learning different kind of sports, but I like football the most, because it is in the family line. My father was a good sportsman.

Q. Where did your Lasallian connection begin?

As with many vocations, mine began within my family. I am blessed to be born to parents who loved God, loved each other, and loved me. From an early age, my parents taught me that loving and serving God was the most important adventure of life, and this included the possibility of God calling me to join the Brothers.

I can’t forget the day because it was my mother’s birthday, and all the family members were gathered together for the Dinner. It was July 7, 2014, and one of my cousins, who works for the Brothers, gave the idea of going to the formation house of the Brothers. Moreover, I am happy that, I said “Yes”.

Indeed, it was a good decision. Thanks be to God. Q. So far, what has been your favourite moment as a Brother?

“The journey was bumpy and uneven. Instead of the movie version of entering religious life with shining eyes and holy music, the Holy Spirit had me fumbling around at the side door, peering inside, hanging around at the threshold, eventually reopening the door, and finally stepping through, with recognition that I belonged in this life, and that I found joy and fulfillment in it”.

As I look back through photos from the past few months, I am reminded of the incredible experiences I have had since joining the La Salle PARC Novitiate. I find it hard to believe all that has happened. I am in awe of it all and filled with gratitude. I am happy to share about my favourite novitiate experience. …I have so many, experiences fill with joys and wonders…

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NEWS FROM THE BROTHERS As I recall, one of the favourite experiences of this Novitiate was to celebrate my birthday with Brothers in the Community, and as well as La Salle PARC Novitiate community in Lipa, The Philippines. They, all wished me birthday messages, wishes and prayers. I really liked that the Lipa community made a video message of the Brothers and my fellow novices. It was filled with love and prayers. As I am in the La Salle Brothers community in Gujranwala, Pakistan, I had a great fun and treasured my day in the community.

Q. What is your role at the moment? And what does that Involve?

At present my role as a Novice, involves undergoing an initiation into religious life. I am learning and understanding the meaning of consecration to God to my fullest. I am student of the Brothers, follower of St. John Baptist de La Salle, and most importantly I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.

Q. What advice would you give to someone thinking of becoming a Brother?

Give it a try!

Take time to learn from the people and the other Brothers.

There are many different qualities looked for in a Brother. Brothers are expected to be caring, compassionate and understanding. They are looked up to as good role models and are often asked for their opinion or advice. They are approachable and friendly: someone people will not be afraid to go to. Give yourself time to grow.

At the pinnacle is “Follow to Christ”. Be formed in His image. Remember it’s not about you. Determine whose opinion matters. Build a team of experts to help you. Give yourself the grace and the room to grow.

Q. Are there any goals you’d like to achieve over the next 6 months or the year in your role?

Setting goals can be an effective way to help yourself grow and develop. I have some goals like improving my skills, reading more books, reading and learning more about HOLY SCRIPTURE, and most importantly to prepare for the teaching profession.

Q. Who is the biggest influence on your life at the moment?

The most influential people in my life have always been the people closest to me. My family is small but supportive. My parents taught me and my brothers a strong work ethic – to aim high, work hard and value my relationships. My parents have nurtured me, guided me and comforted me. They hold the opinions I trust the most. They constantly inspire me to achieve.

Q. If you had to give advice to your younger self, what would you say?

Don’t worry about the future. Have fun while I can. Whatever I do, believe in myself.

Make my life my passion. Nothing is permanent so don’t waste time worrying. Learn to forgive myself and forgive others. I don’t have to prove anything to others. Be the best of myself. Set some goals and follow them with determination. All things are possible and achievable when you surrender yourself to God and trust in Him with full confidence and trust.

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NEWS FROM THE BROTHERS PNG ACKNOWLEDGES Brother PAUL TOOHEY After 13 months of planning, the Lasallian community in Bomana, Papua New Guinea, celebrated Br. Paul Toohey’s Golden Jubilee.

Born in Melbourne, Australia, in 1953, Br Paul joined the Brothers on the 31 January 1970 and has served 21 of his 50 years’ service in Papua New Guinea bringing a wealth of wisdom, knowledge and love to every community he has been a part of across the world.

Fifty years as a De La Salle Brother, what an achievement. What made you want to join the De La Salle Brothers?

I was a student at De La Salle College, Malvern during the 1960’s, and the Brothers on staff were a significant and formative influence on me. Not only did they teach well, but they had a genuine interest and regard for their students. The Brothers’ activity and interests went beyond the classroom sports, singing, cadets, camps, etc. The Brothers’ vocation was also promoted among the student body through regular visits of other Brothers.

Is there a particular moment or memory that stands out for you over the past 50 years?

My early years in the community as a ‘fully-fledged’ Brother stand out because of the change of role for me from student to that of teacher and Brother. I was class patron for a small Year 10 class, some students only a few years younger than myself! At the end of the first school term, I was struggling to complete reports, staying up well into the early morning hours. An older Brother of the community suddenly appeared at the door with some curt advice, “Get yourself some sleep, no student requires you to stay up this late!”

Another memory that proved to be a turning point occurred during the September holidays of my first year in PNG when the incoming Visitor of the time, Br Bill Firman, proposed a new role, Director of novices. That came as a complete surprise I had only just started a two-year appointment to Bomana. Besides, that was a role reserved for a more senior Brother. But I was touched by the trust and confidence being shown in me.

What has your favourite assignment been?

I would have to rank my current role near the top because I enjoy the challenge of debunking students’ fear of mathematics and daring them to discover its orderliness, predictability and even beauty! Occasionally the sun breaks through the swirling clouds of confusion, as on the day one of the lower achievers beamed at the end of a class, “Now, I’m understanding!” Students are often hounded for this and that, and not always without reason. But where possible, I seek to generate some self-belief and suggest that a given question was not as tricky as first supposed, especially broken down into simpler parts!

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NEWS FROM THE BROTHERS What are some of your most significant achievements as a Brother over the last 50 years?

Adapting to various appointments over the years Sydney, Bomana (PNG), New Plymouth (NZ), studying overseas in Rome + U.S., Bereina + Bomana, Philippines, Melbourne, Sri Lanka, Mt Hagen (PNG), Bomana, Melbourne and Bomana again. My roles have included teacher, student, Director of novices, formation staff, lecturer, community director, education support officer. God willing, there is more yet, albeit at an easier pace like I am enjoying this year!

Exercising the role of Director of novices was a special role and ministry, demanding in its own way. You don’t graduate large numbers as in a school or tertiary institution. But it is a position of great trust where you have time one-to-one with idealistic and well-intentioned young men, to accompany and encourage them in their discernment of vocation and God’s call in their lives.

After a break from teaching, I have enjoyed returning to the classroom and helping students get their head around their academic work. Grade 10 and 12 students did well as a cohort in their national examinations last year which was a boost for everyone students, parents, staff, and school administration. Nothing succeeds like success!

What was your hardest assignment as a Brother?

The most challenging assignment for me was as Director of novices, first in PNG and later in the Philippines at the Regional Novitiate where novices came from several countries India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, Japan, PNG, Singapore and Philippines. It was a rich experience but also a complex one, cultural differences adding to the mix.

As Director I was answerable to many parties the novices, the staff, the sending Sector, the Institute, myself, and to God who calls and sends us all!

What are two moments over the last 50 years that have shaped you as a person?

Everything shapes you as a person, not just one or two moments. But my time away from Australia at the Brothers’ Lasallian Centre in Rome and at the Institute for Religious Formation in St Louis U.S. as well as other places in between was something both new and stimulating. The experience opened me to other ways of seeing and doing things; it was a time of greater independence, travel and making new friends.

Having time in countries outside Australia where many lack easy access to nutritious food, clean water, electricity, transport, hospitals, etc. has made me appreciate my good fortune, as well as admire those who press on in spite of more demanding circumstances. Looking ahead, I am hopeful that education, and a Lasallian education in particular, will empower today’s youth to raise the standard of living in PNG while, at the same time, attend to those most vulnerable.

What has been the biggest influence/s on your life? What lessons did that person/s teach you?

Unsurprisingly, my parents and family have had been a major influence on me. My parents were fiercely loyal to each other and utterly devoted to the family they were raising. Brothers with whom I have lived in community have also been a big influence. I have been fortunate with all my community Directors, right up to the present! Brother Malachy Yates, my first Director and Principal, helped me in those early formative years to grow in confidence, advance myself, see the humour in situations, be satisfied with what I could do and leave the rest in God’s hands, value each of the elements of the Brothers’ life of prayer, apostolate and community.

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NEWS FROM THE BROTHERS Looking back, what advice would you have given to yourself when you were 30?

While there is a place for order and predictability, make space for change and surprises. Don’t be afraid of the new; embrace it. The words of John Cardinal Newman ring true: “To live is to change, and to be perfect is to have changed often.”

What advice would you give to someone thinking of becoming a Brother?

“Why religious life?” was a question put by an older Sister to a group of novices of various religious congregations. After a short pause, she gave a one-word answer, “JESUS”. That answer has always stayed with me. There is plenty of good to be done, many people in need. Becoming a Brother, unlike many other pathways, is not a career but a calling, God’s calling, to a partnership, to brotherhood, to being in relation with many, as opposed to one particular person as in marriage. It may fit, it may not. It is an invitation. Reflect about it, talk to others about it, pray about it. Take your time, but also don’t delay unnecessarily. The adventure beckons!

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR St Michael’s College, Adelaide From regular student to enlivening the culture at St Michael’s Adelaide Isabella Tocchetti never saw herself, during her time at St. Michael’s College (SMC) 2013-17, as “a model student or star academic”. Enjoying a strong sense of Lasallian community, she experienced welcome there, and pushed herself to be her best. She has been a staff member for the last two years.

The Lasallian ethos – its core principles and values - has helped shape the person Isabella is today: “Being a Lasallian has taught me how to be compassionate, kind, and loving to those around me, while upholding the core values of faith, service and community. Being a Lasallian means you truly are part of a larger community that always looks out for one another. I am proud to work at an organisation that strives… (to continue) the mission of St John Baptist de La Salle”.

Isabella took on the role of Lasallian youth minister in early 2020, at a time when she had, in her own words, “recently grown a lot in my faith, and my relationship with God was strengthening rapidly”. Zani Bates, another SMC youth minister told her of an immediate opening at St. Michael’s. “I was excited by the opportunity to grow in my faith in a community I already felt so comfortable in, while also being able to foster the spiritual growth of young people”.

Her role had many different tasks, all rewarding, and for her important. Developing and supporting the College youth ministry, fostering spiritual growth, and being a positive role model were all important. She nurtured relationships with staff as well as students as core jobs.

Retreat organisation and facilitation was very rewarding bonding with students, and finding their openness to communicate in times of need. Developing Lasallian Youth Leaders was central as well: “It is so exciting to see a room full of young people so passionate about social justice, spirituality, and making a change.

We have such a great generation of young people wanting to make a difference, and it is the Youth Ministers’ job to help put their ideas into action!”

Over the last three years Isabella has been studying for a Bachelor of Business and Human Resource Management at the University of South Australia. Thus, when SMC advertised for a “People & Culture Assistant”, she applied. The Leadership Team had seen her passion and commitment to Lasallian development, and so she is now gaining experience in HR, her chosen career path.

The skills developed, and the hearts she nurtured in Lasallian youth ministry has set Isabella Tocchetti in great shape for the future.

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR O’Connor Catholic High School, Armidale Growing the Country’s Spirit - Regina Menz, Principal What makes a regional school principal? Looking at O’Connor Catholic High School Armidale and its leadership gives a good take.

Regina Menz has been associated with O’Connor from 2003, from her initial employment as a teacher.

Coming from a rural Riverina background, Regina loved teaching especially science, beginning in Gundagai NSW, taking in Toorak in Melbourne for a change, with high schools in Wagga NSW, as well as Kormilda College in Darwin, putting into action her M.Ed. in Aboriginal Education. This rich background in regional Australia was a fine fit for a diverse and educationally-centred Armidale. Regina’s three children all attended O’Connor, and after local curriculum consultancy work, she became Principal there in 2017.

Regina believes the College has a strong reputation for holistic education and pastoral care for students, who come from Walcha to Uralla to Guyra, as well as Armidale environs. Students and staff of O’Connor give an immediate welcome to people, says Regina.

“Our vision … (is for) a faith-filled Catholic Professional Learning Community, founded on faith, & focused on learning, working collaboratively to enhance the learning for all, resulting in students who are creative, confident and informed people, ready to make a real difference in our world. We believe that everyone can learn, not always at the same time or in the same way, and we strive to create learning opportunities for all”.

For Regina, “this is what Lasallian means”. Learning and the student are central for a woman who cherishes education, just as it was at the heart of De La Salle’s project 340 years ago.

The De La Salle Brothers raised their first Australian foundation in 1906. Years of hard work, care for boarding cohorts of 200 boys, and a reputation built on the commitment of Brothers like Benignus White, Frederick Sheridan, Anthony Flood and Patrick Howard, came spectacularly undone with the closure, in 1974, of De La Salle College, in dire financial straits. From the collapse came the new co-educational O’Connor Catholic High, with the Ursuline Sisters.

Regina Metz sees the school as Lasallian in “living and modelling the values that John Baptist de La Salle taught: “The role of teachers is ‘Touching Hearts’. For me that means building strong positive relationships with students and their families. It means especially looking after the poor and marginalised in our community. Education can and does make the difference, and our roles as teachers is to build connections, to know our students so that we can meet their needs”.

Three foundational College goals for 2021 are broader still: Faith, Learning and Collaboration. Faith means collective responsibility for improving student learning and wellbeing. Learning translates as teachers giving superior lessons daily. Collaboration is all teaming up for improvement. This year includes building performing arts facilities, a brand new gym and PDHPE rooms, as well as refurbishing the main administrative building.

O’Connor is valuing tradition, and on the move.

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR Luurnpa Catholic School, Balgo Luurnpa School Balgo Hills: A Proud History Balgo is a desert community of 400-500 Kukatja people in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. From Alice Springs in the middle of the continent? - the distance from Melbourne to Sydney (800km.) The Wirrimanu community has been the site of a Lasallian mission school and presence for most of the last 35 years.

Barry Ennis has been Principal there for the last four years. On arrival, he was impressed by the pride taken in Luurnpa Catholic School, where the parents of current students themselves studied. Today, the school has a varied curriculum, fostering Kukatja literacy and aboriginal culture, together with Religious Education, and general literacy and numeracy. Each week, classes ‘go on country’: developing their skills alongside local artists at the Warlayirti Art Centre, learning in the garden, engaging in story or music/dance. In conjunction with an elder, a two-year cycle of study has been developed.

The Principal indicates the values that are taught, or “‘animated’ via the daily whole school assembly, where the Angelus is recited, as are our school values – ‘We are Learners! We are Responsible! We are Respectful! We are Safe! We are Strong! We are Balgo!’ These values are the basis for our Positive Behaviour for Learning approach”.

The local community’s ancient story is threaded into the start-of-year events, through a ‘school induction. As Barry says: “We have an excellent ‘school induction’ each year whereby the elders of the community take the staff, and others new to the community, through the ‘Balgo Story’. The early mission has left Balgo with a strong educated group of elders who are deeply committed to their Catholic faith. The community still identifies very much as Catholic, and community meetings begin with prayer. Weekend Mass, mainly in the local language, Kukatja, is led by Church Elders and is well-attended.

The local people came into contact with Western and Catholic missionaries in the 1930’s. The German Pallottines wanting to establish a mission in this unspoilt Kimberley region. Fr.Ernest Worms was “one of the first mission anthropologists and the first Pallottine in Australia to gain wide recognition for his work on Australian religion and rock art in the north-west” of W.A. From 1939, the German order’s brothers and priests roamed the Tanami Desert, seemingly imitating the Israelites out of Egypt, testing various sites before settling at “Old Balgo” in 1942. It was “a site for large corroborees and initiation ceremonies. Walmadjiri and Kugadja people traversed the country in their hundreds”. Considered intruders by the indigenous tribes, and enemy aliens by the W.A. police, they had their guns confiscated, depending on the people to survive. Under the Bishop’s supervision, they built a mission, industriously making mud-bricks and dynamiting bores for water.

This extraordinary Catholic venture saw a group of Kugadja people wandering in from the desert. In 1951, Sr. Alice Evans, of St. John of God, became the first white woman at Balgo (until 1956). Thus grew the tribal Christian faith till 1965, when the mission was transferred to the present Balgo. (cf. the astounding history in http://missionaries.griffith.edu.au/ mission/balgoto glean a little of the intrepidity, zeal and perseverance of these Christian missionaries).

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR By the 1970’s, the De La Salle Brothers were considering how to serve the indigenous peoples more. A fact-finding mission by Br. Leo Scollen, a leading principal, led to three Brothers, n 1984, re-opening a Catholic school, with two Sisters of Mercy. It was requested by the local Kukatja community, led by a strong educated group of elders, deeply committed to their Catholic faith. Community meetings begin with a prayer, and the weekend Mass, well-attended, is led by Elders in the local language. Over three & a half decades, up to 12 Brothers committed themselves to the remote school, within a community of the famed Wirrimanu Arts Centre, church, store and an adult education centre (now a Trade Training Centre).

A major challenge was establishing a bi-lingual program of instruction. A critical part was the presence in the largely primary classrooms of Aboriginal Teacher Assistants (ATA’s). Dedicated teachers are recruited still from other Australian states. From 2004- almost without a break till now- young Lasallian Volunteers have been drawn to help, to discover, to explore and to learn to love the culture of the Wirrimanu community, part of five self-managed indigenous communities of the Kutjungka region.

A school, distant from city sophistications, demands support and networks. The Catholic Education Department and the W.A. Education Dept. provide critical modern resources and funded extra ATA’s and two youth workers. The Lasallian Mission Serviceshas taken a lead, in gauging interest in continuing the Lasallian tradition, put on hold, with the last two Brothers involuntarily leaving in 2017. Barry Ennis, the sixth Principal in two years, grabbed the opportunity having seen that “many people mourned the loss of the Brothers, and the friendship, strength and stability that they offered…The young and transient staff were finding it difficult”.

The Lasallian values and ethos were re-embedded with the resumption of the Lasallian Volunteers program in 2019.

Encapsulated in “Faith, Service, Community”, the ethos can be observed in remembering the Presence of God, and invoking “Live Jesus in our Hearts”. The witness of young helping the disadvantaged youth is extended to branching out into the Community’s activities.

“Having these young, energetic, dedicated and resilient young people support staff, children and community has been absolutely wonderful” (Barry Ennis).

Various teachers and Volunteers refer to the Lasallian spirit: “We see it everywhere. (The Lasallian ethos) We have strong values, pray every day, and continually promote positive energy.” (Zander) “We love our St John Baptist De La Salle Day when we celebrate with all the children. The elders love retelling the story of how they wanted Catholic Education for the kids, and how they had a big community meeting under the tree out the front of the school. They all remember Br Leo Scollen, the first principal.” (Susan) “The work we are doing is consistent with the work the Brothers were doing with the marginalised people. As teachers, we try to reflect the approach of the Lasallian Brothers, who always emphasised teaching the students, using their world view and their language.” (Tom Vidot) The challenge of recruiting and keeping a strong teaching team in the Australian Outback is being currently met: there is a nucleus of eight, includes three ex-Lasallian Volunteers - Tom Vidot, Rosy Setephano and Joshua PolkinghorneRichards. This group has led the staff, from year to year, in striving for improvement.

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR Almost all teachers, says Barry, come to work with Aboriginal children, usually with some trepidation. “Almost all settle in after about a term, and soon grow to love living and working in the Wirrimanu Community. It is very challenging but rewarding work. The struggles bring people together, and the local people are beautiful, welcoming people. When circumstance means that it’s time to go, many swear that they will be back”. Just appointed are two graduate teachers who have a Lasallian background - Melkorka Hilfarsdottir and Stephen Beirouti. Both will be classroom teachers in 2022.

In terms of learning, a core problem is that English is not the youths’ first language; they speak various languages, and English is ‘for school’. Not all parents may not see daily school attendance as foundational in their culture. Other important learning is done in country, not in a Western-style classroom. Critically, the Aboriginal Teacher Assistants are a bridge between cultures.

Barry and his wife, Susan, had worked previously for five years at another Community – at Djarindjin/Lombadina. There was a sense of privilege they have in education in the Kimberley. They are a part of the long line of pilgrims who have come to learn and offer to this proud people and their country.

“I would urge anyone who has ever considered this career move to jump at it. I can assure you that you will not regret it. It is life-giving!”

La Salle Catholic College, Bankstown La Salle Bankstown helping to break through the barriers of loneliness and isolation Over thirty year 9 and 10 students from La Salle Catholic College, Bankstown, have volunteered their time to create packs and meals for people in need as part of the St Vincent de Paul Night Patrol Service.

The night patrol service consists of two vans, operating seven nights per week, providing a meal, blankets, toiletries, snacks, hot beverages and most importantly, companionship to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness within the inner city of Sydney, to help break through the barriers of loneliness and isolation that many living on the fringe of society suffer.

In total, 80 snack packs were provided by the students. The Bankstown community are also collecting knitting squares which will be sewn into blankets for the homeless.

Due to the successful feedback from students, the initiative will be continued on an annual basis.

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR Oakhill College, Castle Hill Oakhill College: Second-highest fundraising school in Australia Jonathan Haddad, Lasallian Captain at Oakhill College Castle Hill, along with 50+ staff and students, have recently participated in The Ration Challenge and have raised over $31,000 for the 80 million refugees, asylum seekers and displaced people worldwide.

The Ration Challenge gives students the power to raise awareness by putting themselves in the shoes of a refugee; students learn about current global issues, develop empathy for others and feel empowered to make a difference in the world.

For one week, staff and students ate the same rations as a Syrian refugee. The money raised will provide emergency food, healthcare and life-saving support for people hit hardest by the coronavirus. And by sharing their experience, they will help create more empathy and compassion in society.

Oakhill College is proud to currently be the second-highest fundraising school in Australia, with schools contributing over $320,000 of the $1,000,000 already raised.

SBS News recently interviewed Jonathan; you can read his story HERE.

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$4,500,000 raised by Oakhill alumni for Afghan Refugees

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Oakhill MasterChef Challenge

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR De La Salle Catholic College, Caringbah Blessing and Opening of College Hall De La Salle Catholic College Caringbah “WIYANGA NGABAMARA” Friday 19 November was a very special day for all Lasallians at De La Salle Catholic College Caringbah as the college community and invited guests gathered for the blessing and opening of the college hall including teaching and learning facilities.

The building has an Aboriginal name; “Wiyanga Ngabamara” which translates as “Mary the Mother of God.” The Marian name sits well with Our Lady of Fatima Parish which is adjacent to the college.

Invited guests included Archbishop Fisher OP, Hon Scott Morrison Prime Minister and local Member, Tony Farley Executive Director Sydney Catholic Schools, Fr Moises Tapia Assistant Priest, local clergy and other guests including Br David Hawke Visitor and Br John Pill.

Archbishop Fisher in his homily focussed on the Gospel theme “you are the salt of the earth” while Prime Minister Morrison addressed the students urging them to value their beliefs. Both the homily and address were inspiring.

The impressive Commonwealth funded building was blessed by Archbishop Fisher OP and opened jointly by him with Prime Minister Morrison and Tony Farley.

The function concluded with a group photo with the students at the Prime Minister’s request.

Congratulations to Peter Buxton Principal and all at De La Salle.

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR De La Salle Catholic College, Cronulla Awarded a high commendation in the Sydney Catholic Schools Lockdown Arts Festival.

Author: Christie Vasilevski Congratulations Scarlett Mandich !!!

Scarlett Mandich Year 11 from De La Salle Catholic College Cronulla has been awarded a high commendation in the Sydney Catholic Schools Lockdown Arts Festival.

Title: Portrait of Mum Scarlett says “In Lockdown we were studying the Archibald Prize. I made this portrait of my Mum even though we didn’t have many art materials in the house. I was lucky enough to find some old colouring pencils”

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR Holy Spirit Catholic College, Lakemba New instruments are music to our ears Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) is rolling out a new comprehensive music education program through Holy Spirit Catholic College throughout 2021.

Holy Spirit Lakemba’s “Amadeus Program” provides students with tailored music and arts education, along with new instruments. The current Year 7 students have commenced lessons and the sheer joy they are experience is just tangible.

The College has a state-of-the-art performance space which makes it the perfect base for students to begin their musical journey.

The College Principal, Phillip Scollard, wrote that, “The research is clear that the benefits for students who learn an instrument go well beyond the realms of music education. Music promotes wellbeing, boosts brain power, improves language skills, memory and coordination. It is a long-standing fact that there is a significant link between mathematical expertise and the skills developed when learning a musical instrument.”

The students at Holy Spirit will have the opportunity to learn the following instruments: violin, viola, cello, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, euphonium and the baritone horn.

Casimir Catholic College, Marrickville A Three-In-One Gift: Casimir College Marrickville (Material supplied by Mr. Gabriele Turchi, Religious Education Co-ordinator Not too many schools can boast that they have three strong traditions. Casimir, a co-educational multi-ethnic Catholic community, was named after an early Passionist parish priest who built up Catholic education in inner Sydney. The Good Samaritan Sisters and the De La Salle Brothers are the other arms of the educational mission there.

The Principal, Mrs Carmelina Eussen, stresses the wealth of the College’s charisms - “spiritually, socially, academically, culturally, rich with memories and great stories. The stories of our Founders make us rich and allow us to grow as people, and learn from the past”. Character and values from the school’s history “have helped to shape who we are”.

The three charisms which are spiritual gifts of the Holy Spirit was those derived from the spirituality of The Sisters of the Good Samaritan, The Passionist Priests and Brothers and thirdly from The De La Salle Brothers.

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR

The Sisters of the Good Samaritan, was founded by Archbishop John Bede Polding, in 1857, to care with Christ’s compassion for the destitute and abused women of Sydney. The Australian “Good Sams” became involved with educating girls at St. Brigid’s School in Marrickville in the 1880’s. The Passionist Priests and Brothers were begun by the mystic Italian St. Paul of the Cross, so that by 1741, “Passionists” promoted the ‘living memory’ of Jesus’ sufferings.

They conducted the Marrickville parish from 1887.

The De La Salle Brothers came in 1932 to teach the parish boys, and both girls and boys learnt in separate facilities in the schools built by Fr. Casimir by 1932. St. John Baptist de La Salle, the Church’s Patron of all Teachers, was inspired to train religious teachers for French schools from 1680. The Brothers’ Founder focused on children of “artisans and the poor”, developing an exceptional educational pedagogy, which was holistic in practice.

The three ‘charisms’ (Spirit -gifts, which are religious traditions) blended together, so that in 1983 Casimir College was formed as a co-educational Year 7 to 12 school.

Amy Perestrelos, the Lasallian Youth Minister reported that the celebratory ‘Founders’ Day’ Mass was participated in by all, in person, not virtually. “All students were able to receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion or a special blessing, and with great understanding of the difficult times we are living through. (Students kept in mind) … all those who are struggling presently”.

The later community celebrations included talent shows and other activities with peers and teachers. Two typical views were expressed by students:

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR “This year’s Founders Day had one of the best talent shows I have seen in my years in Casimir. Not only did the students have an opportunity to join in on the final performance with Father Eric, but the quality and quantity of the students’ performances was amazing to watch.” (Katerina Millis) “Founders Day 2021 was one of the best days this year, especially considering that there was so much uncertainty as to if it would occur. We were lucky enough to experience a day of community and partake in several fun rides, and a strengthening school Mass. These activities enabled us to strengthen our bond as a school and acknowledge the Founders who played a role in establishing Casimir. We were gifted with great memories of an enjoyable day spent with our teachers and peers, which was ended by acknowledging the talent within our school community.”

(Demi Azzi)

De La Salle College, Malvern Year 12 VCAL Enterprise – Communities Environmental Program Author: Sarah Pudelko, De La Salle College, Malvern During Semester 1 2021, the Year 12 VCAL Enterprise class worked hard to create a new garden space on the Kinnoull Campus.

This garden project was part of the Communities Environmental Program funded by the Commonwealth of Australia — Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources and sponsored by Dr Katie Allen MP, Federal Member for Higgins. The intention of the garden was to create a native habitat to attract a range of local native animals. It also allows the De La Salle College community to reduce our carbon footprint and increase sustainability.

The project involved students working each Friday clearing invasive weeds, setting posts for retaining walls and a decorative timber fence, selecting and planting native plants, and mulching the entire area.

During the project, the students were visited by Dr Katie Allen MP, and Assistant Minister for Waste Reduction and Environmental Management, Trevor Evans MP where they proudly displayed their progress and answered questions about the project.

The garden was completed in the first week of Term 3. An official opening will be held once lockdown restrictions ease.

People’s Choice Award for Year 12 Art Student Author: Sarah Pudelko, De La Salle College, Malvern This year’s ACC Art and Technology’s People’s Choice Award went to Year 12 student, Emmett McCann, for his photorealistic pencil drawing of US actor Chadwick Boseman, who passed away last year.

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR McCann said he created the piece during lockdown after Boseman passed away in August. “Boseman was an inspiration for so many people of colour as a symbol for equality and representation, especially with ‘Black Lives Matter,’” McCann said. “As tributes poured in after his death, one resonated with me, a fellow cast member stated that people could always read Boseman’s performance within his eyes.”

“Many people often say that eyes are the window to the soul. This conviction was the driving force for me to follow realism portraiture,” he said.

“Without any words or speech, a person’s face is what engages people the most, with expressions of many emotions. As Anh Do put it, ‘I paint portraits because I’m interested by people, their dreams, desires, regrets, their sadness’.”

“Having my work exhibited along with so many other creative pieces from ACC schools was an incredible experience. It is such a wonderful opportunity for students to share and have their work appreciated by the wider community.”

La Salle College, Middle Swan La Salle College Middle Swan: You are part of the Miracle. Our vision, our passion, our future Author: Ms Giovanna Fiume, Principal, La Salle Catholic College Middle Swan The Lasallian theme for 2021 You are part of the Miracle. Our vision, our passion, our future resonates strongly with me as an educator. I see the young people of our College as part of the miracle. They are our vision, our passion and most definitely, our future. This theme recalls the powerful and inspiring words of Saint John Baptist de La Salle to all engaged in the Lasallian mission that “the greatest miracle you could perform” is to “touch the hearts of your students and inspire them with the Christian spirit for this is the purpose of your work” (Med 139.3). However, the Gospel inspiration for this year’s theme is the miracle of the feeding of the five thousand from “five loaves and two fishes” in Matthew’s Gospel which has application to all of us in our everyday life, irrespective of the nature of our work. All of us have something to offer. All of us have our own particular five loaves and two fishes which can make our world a better place to the extent that we are prepared to share what we have.

Throughout the year there have been many opportunities for me to witness to members of our community who have been prepared to share what they have so as to support other community members and others in need. Some of these opportunities presented themselves in the everyday actions of our students and staff, by helping a peer with a broken leg navigate the quadrangle by carrying their books; by checking in on friends that have experienced difficulties through the bushfires or are dealing with family loss and illness or by helping another student understand a tricky concept in class. These are just a few examples. Other opportunities present themselves in the activities that are part of our College calendar such as: JOURNAL LA SALLE - ISSUE 2, 2021

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR Make a Difference (MAD) Day We are truly blessed to have the patron saint, St John Baptist de La Salle, who modelled, for us all, the life that Christ asks us to live. He looked beyond self to determine how he would live a life in service to God. His work to change the lives of children in poverty throughout France reminds us that we all have a responsibility to care for those that have less. This is the reason for MAD Day, which we celebrated on Friday 14 May 2021.

Through our students’ service to others and fundraising through stalls and activities, we will be able to support less fortunate members in our local community. This can occur through the Archbishop’s LifeLink appeal and our ‘twin school’ in Pakistan, Sant Singh Wala. This Lasallian school needs basics that we take for granted such as a water tank for clean water and a sanitary toilet block to reduce illness in young children. I know that for me the highlight of MAD Day was our students and staff coming together to work, as one, to improve the lives of others with such a positive spirit.

Touching Hearts Christian Service Learning Program As a community we recognise that people do not just need financial assistance, but also, ‘actions’ can improve the lives of others. Providing for those in our community is key to our Lasallian story. Over the last few months our students have been showing Christ’s love to others within our community through small actions that make a difference to the lives of others. These include: •

Year 11 students participating in the 5000 Meals project. The food our students prepared was distributed to those in need via the Dream Builders Café in Midland.

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Cancer Council WA Relay for Life.

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Volunteering at a number of local support agencies like such as St Vinnies.

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Engaging with the elderly in local aged care facilities through letters and electronic means.

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Bringing joy through your gifts: Addams Family.

Our College production is an important part of the history and social fabric of our vibrant school community. Our students, staff, parents, and the local community all working together, for each other, to achieve a common goal. This is the Lasallian way. There is something quite magical happens when singing, acting and dancing come together. Our production was no exception. The wonderful cast and crew have relished the opportunity to use their creative flair and talent to bring their Addams family characters to life and provide us with an engaging and entertaining musical stage show.

As many of us would know, large scale productions also require community volunteers and I want to thank our amazing parent volunteers for the countless tasks they have actioned to bring this production to fruition. At the heart of the Lasallian mission are relationships; between students and teachers, between teachers and parents, between those who work together for the greater good; all are called, in the words of De La Salle to perform the miracle of “touching hearts”.

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR It is through the quality of our relationships that we “touch hearts”; in the way we reach out and support each other; in the way we treat each other; in the smile of welcome that we give to each other; in the way we speak to, and about, each other. To the extent that we treat each other with respect and compassion, here at the College we become part of the miracle of “touching hearts”. Clearly, this is not exclusive to Lasallians. All are challenged to be respectful and compassionate irrespective of our religious beliefs. It is part of being fully human but, nonetheless, it is one of the characteristics that identifies us as being Lasallian and helps to create an authentic Lasallian community. So, I challenge all within our community to seek small ways to be part of the miracle.

De La Salle College, Revesby Heights Archbishop’s Award for Student Excellence to a student from De La Salle, Revesby Author: Mrs Marg Marriott, Religious Education Coordinator, De La Salle College, Revesby Heights The Archbishop’s Award for Student Excellence for 2021 has been awarded to Stephen Georgakopoulos from De La Salle College, Revesby Heights.

Stephen is a wonderful exemplar of what Principal, Mr Timothy Logue, reminds the students to do: he gets involved, does his very best and has a place for God in his heart. The College is incredibly proud of him and his contributions to the College and the St Christopher’s Parish of Revesby Heights, and the Youth Group at St Therese, Padstow.

His citation, which will be read at the online ceremony on the 3rd of September and published in the Catholic Weekly reads: Stephen Georgakopoulos has been outstanding in his contribution to his Parish of St Patrick’s, Revesby Heights in his welcoming ministry, liturgical participation and in the parish working bee. Stephen powerfully bears witness to his faith as a Lasallian Youth Leader: taking a leadership role at the Year 7 retreat, supporting school fundraising, and through his participation in and leadership of the Youth Group at St Therese’s Parish, Padstow.

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR Through his active involvement with Australian Catholic Youth Festival in Perth, Lasallian events and in many social justice initiatives, Stephen has made a significant contribution to the Catholic life of the College and has completed the Christian Mission Faith in Action Program of community service. His modest and gentle nature is highly valued, and he exemplifies resilience to overcome significant challenges through his generosity of heart. Stephen is an exceptional man of quiet faith and humbly proclaims the Gospel by his life.

Southern Cross Catholic College, Scarborough More than a word - Reconciliation takes action Southern Cross Catholic College has hosted the 2021 Reconciliation Week event for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, with students visiting from Catholic secondary schools located between the Sunshine Coast in the north down to Beenleigh in the south.

With over 208 students attending from 14 schools, students explored the theme of Reconciliation and how they can make a practical contribution.

Students took part in art activities and listened to elders explore the theme of Reconciliation Week - More than a Word.

Reconciliation takes action.

Southern Cross is committed in its journey to strive for excellence in Indigenous Education by providing a learning environment where unity in diversity is highly valued.

The College’s Garanyali Unit, led by Brother Rick Gaffney, supports indigenous students by heightening cultural identity, maintaining high expectations, promoting active leadership and building strong community relationships.

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR yourtown / Kids Helpline Kids Helpline finds young males are still reluctant to reach out Our latest snapshot into the mental wellbeing of young people confirms that boys are seeking help only one in four times compared with girls.

Research from the Kids Helpline Insights Report 2020 shows that just under a quarter (22%) of contacts Kids Helpline responded to, were male, while 75% were female, and 3% were trans or gender diverse.

Boys’ help-seeking has been trending downwards in recent years – in 2015, boys were one-third of all Kids Helpline contacts.

So why won’t boys seek help?

Confusing and often contradictory messages about ‘what it means to be a man’ could harm boys’ wellbeing and stop them from asking for help when they are most vulnerable.

Kids Helpline CEO, Tracy Adams, said, “We need to encourage men to model behaviour that allows them to show their vulnerability, and ask for help on a range of issues – from mental health and suicide, to peer and family relationships and emotional wellbeing.”

“All men, fathers, brothers, friends, need to stand up and say when they need help,” Ms Adams said.

“Part of becoming a man has been to hide their emotions, and this is cementing patterns of young boys not asking for help.”

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR

This data is indicative of a larger issue regarding mental health and help-seeking behaviour in men.

Consistently over the past decade, the number of male deaths by suicide was approximately three times higher than females. In Australia, suicide is the leading cause of death in people aged 15-49.

Ms Adams said Kids Helpline acted as a safety-net not just for vulnerable children but all children and young people.

“Our role is critical in filling gaps and reducing pressure on primary health services by providing a pathway to support children and young people who wouldn’t otherwise receive help.” she said.

Top 4 reasons young people contacted Kids Helpline Mental health concerns Emotional wellbeing Family relationship issues Suicide-related concerns How we gather more accurate data on gender In addition to recording male and female contacts, in 2015 we introduced a new reporting category for young people who are trans and gender diverse.

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AUSTRALIAN SECTOR A young person contacts Kids Helpline every 69 seconds Last year, Kids Helpline received a significant increase in the volume of children and young people seeking help - up 20% in 2020 vs 2019. An additional 100 counsellors were employed in 2020 to better manage this increased demand.

“Many children and young people struggled with changes to their learning environment, and with the impacts the pandemic had on their family life. First-time mental health contacts to Kids Helpline increased 38% in 2020 vs 2019 across all age groups,” Ms Adams said.

But while first-time contacts increased, the proportion of young males connecting with us did not.

Making help-seeking less scary for boys Sometimes it’s easier for young people to connect with counsellors in ways that don’t require face-to-face interaction or even a phone call.

Kids Helpline can be reached in lots of ways in addition to our free phone counselling service. Young people can visit our website at kidshelpline.com.au to access confidential WebChat or email counselling at any time. They can remain anonymous if they wish, and even request their counsellor be a specific gender if that helps.

Or if they’re not ready to reach out, but would like information and inspiration, they can follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Kids Helpline is Australia’s only national 24/7 counselling and support service specifically for children and young people aged 5 to 25 years.

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NEW ZEALAND SECTOR De La Salle College, Mangere East Enviroschool leads the way ‘Teaching Minds, Touching Hearts, Transforming Lives’ of students are all a part of the Lasallian ‘Special Character’ of Mangere De La Salle, says Kane Raukura. Educating the faculty’s learners to be “future protectors of the environment and our beautiful country” involves a very practical focus in laboratory work, and much expanded field tripping at all age levels.

Opportunities to learn in the wider community and environs include the students of Year 7 and 8 to Motat, the Zoo, the Museum and the Planetarium. Year 9 students went on volcanic expeditions and participated in BP Technology Challenges in the park. Year 10 students were involved with Auckland Council and sustainability projects. The students of Year 11 attended Allied Health Days and Expo’s. Year 12 students went to Shakespeare’s Regional Park, and Year 13 students visited the Zoo, the Liggins Institute and the Waihi Gold Mine. There is also involvement in Science Sizzler Days and MAD Marine.

A College EnviroCouncil with over 30 student members, in conjunction with teachers and the wider community, run several substantial projects within the school, including: •

The Maori Medicinal Garden (Rongoa).

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Our Stream, Our Taonga Project.

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Riparian Repair.

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Stream Health Monitoring Data Collection to Auckland Council.

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Native Tree-Planting on school grounds, working with Trees-that-Count, Project Crimson and the Tindall Foundation. To date, 3,500 have been planted.

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The Sustainability Garden, for example, the worm farm and plant propagation.

The plethora of projects include full-school waste audits, energy usage monitoring, and carbon dioxide level monitoring in classrooms.

Mr Raukura is currently the Chemistry Content Specialist on STEM Online NZ. He is keenly aware of the importance of STEM careers for NZ students and the future of Aotearoa. “Writing the material for STEM Online has been extremely rewarding” but, Kane says, “The journey is far from over.”

“By engaging students in projects like the Rongoa Garden, and Our Stream Our Taonga (Treasure) we have created a personal investment that breeds enthusiasm, connection to the students’ own land, and a feeling of care that cannot be removed”.

“We continue to strive to find new experiences and opportunities for the young men in our care. The academic results of the faculty are of an exceptional calibre for our particular demographic and socioeconomic area, with year-on-year strong examination results, student scholarships, and nearly 100% of graduates bound for university level study.”

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NEW ZEALAND SECTOR The gift to persuade: debating triumphs at De La Salle College, Mangere Author: Mr. Otto Wendt, Debating Head Coach/Teacher, DLS Mangere.

Teachers love to see their students thrive. Healthy scepticism was wiped in 2018, when De La Salle’s Year 9 students answered the call to debate. With Franco Dejoya, a Lasallian Volunteer, three junior teams were formed. It was a historic moment. For the first time, our school had a junior team break into the finals of their respective debate competition.

The following year, history would repeat itself, when one of our junior debate teams made it into the quarter finals of their competition. This was a massive achievement and a testament to the dedication and commitment these students had for the oratory art, that is, debating. That same year, we had three orators place among the top speakers of their competition. They were Nathaniel Siaosi, 10th best speaker, Gabriel Toreja, 6th best speaker and Jarren Iuvale, 4th best speaker.

Because of the success of these students, the popularity of debating grew within the College. In 2021, there are 9 debate teams, with 37 students. It included 4 junior open debate teams, 2 senior open debate teams, 1 advanced open debate team and 2 premier advanced debates in 2021. In a competition that hosted 350 teams from over 60 schools, this is a phenomenal accomplishment for these students.

Debating has a connotation for being somewhat ‘elitist’ and something only for “smart, rich kids”. The group of Year 9 students who joined that fateful lunchtime in 2018 have helped to smash this deficit-thinking concerning debating.

The art of oratory is inherently built in their blood as Pasefika youth. The continued success of the debating teams is proof that it does not matter where you come from. If you have heart, anything is possible. Debating has been able to grow and thrive at our college thanks to the support, dedication, and commitment of our Lasallian Volunteers over the past few years.

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NEW ZEALAND SECTOR Franco Dejoya, Andy Carlos and Nathan Pellizzari have helped the debating competition at the College become what it is today. They have fostered the Lasallian value of brotherhood as the foundation stone on which the De La Salle debating has been built.

This year we saw a historic first with our Senior Opens teams (Tauma Ekeroma, Derek Filimoehala and Dice Taupau (ranking 3rd), Aidan Amoa, Palamo Felise and Isaiah Poe-Fuimaono (ranking 11th)) when they were listed in the top 16 for their competition. Our Advanced Opens team (Justin Sharma, Nihil Gosai, Mason Poe-Laulu and Xavier Vito) went their entire season and won 5-0. They too broke into the top 16 for their competition. One of our Premier Advanced teams (Nathaniel Siaosi, Jarren Iuvale, Gabriel Toreja, Liufau Kaloni/Vaughan Loli, Bayley Cummings, Vaega Ekeroma and Exzodia Vagaia) ranked at 3rd place. They are currently set to compete in the quarter finals for their division, having been placed in the top eight of their entire competition.

These results were made possible because of the support of staff members, Rosanna Kuresa, Heston Stowers and Jessie Phillips. They trained and supported all nine debating teams this year. It has been an honour watching these students thrive in debating over the past few years. The Lasallian value of brotherhood has witnessed these students grow into Lasallian men of faith, service and community, through their God-given talents in debating. This occurred not despite being Pasefika students from South Auckland… but because of it.

Francis Douglas Memorial College, New Plymouth The Olympics and School Excellence Author: Tim Stuck, Principal, Francis Douglas Memorial College, New Plymouth Many of the questions about the Olympics connect to the theme of realising excellence in our schools, although the stakes are much higher, and issues are more complex in schools than in the sports’ arenas.

First, there is the question of what excellence entails. In education as in sports, we know that excellence is more than speed and mastery of basic skills, although those measures count. In education, unlike in the Olympics, we are preparing our young men at Francis Douglas Memorial College New Plymouth, for life, not one big test. Considering the needs of the changing world, does excellence in maths and science count more than excellence in the arts, communications, or problem solving – or is it the other way around? Does excellence always equal A’s? Or does reaching excellence at the College mean we prepare emotionally healthy, challenged young men – the whole person – to tackle the real world?

A connection between excellence at the Olympics and excellence in schools comes down to a matter of motivation.

Whether the coaches exerted powerful control or were true “guides on the side”, it is obvious that they had much to do with helping the athletes aspire to, and achieve, excellence. This is similar to parents and teachers guiding our young men to become Good College Men so they can add value to our society. The best schools both challenge and support their students. What drives an individual person to seek excellence in sports might be recognition and rewards, the competition against others, or doing one’s personal best. In schools, too, those things motivate, but the purpose is larger. When you have a purpose, you know that everything you do counts. Purpose acts as the moral compass north on JOURNAL LA SALLE - ISSUE 2, 2021

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NEW ZEALAND SECTOR the route to personal excellence. Sometimes you may not win the gold medal or receive excellent grades in all subject areas.

However, reaching one’s potential is a challenge for us all. The Olympics has reminded me that every day, we as a community, a school, should be trying to add value to ourselves, trying to reach our own gold medal standards and excellence achievement. This will certainly serve society well in the future.

Good College Man Congratulations to Zac Reid and his involvement in the New Zealand Swimming Team for the Tokyo Olympics. Zac competed in the 400m and 800m Freestyle swimming events. He is a good college man who managed a PB in his 800m race and he broke his own NZ record in the process

John Paul College, Rotorua Faith in Action at John Paul College Author: Veronica Aislabie, Religious Studies teacher at John Paul College, Rotorua At John Paul College, we have developed a unique programme for our students in Religious Studies. In Years 12 and 13, students are selected for the Faith in Action programme.

There is a criteria for this, based on the pathway that the students select. If students are going to be involved in our Gateway and Trades programmes, they will not be at school for the full academic programme so get the opportunity to join Faith in Action. We also identify students who have struggled academically and would benefit from a less intense academic programme and a more one-on-one teaching. The programme involves up to two Achievement standards, with the option of a Unit Standard relating to service, communication, and teamwork.

The students select a project for the year, that this standard will cover. This year we have collected bedding, blankets, duvets, sleeping bags and winter sheets which the students have sorted and delivered to the Catholic Women’s League who in turn work with Healthy Homes which is a local organisation committed to ensuring families have access to warm bedding etc.

The students also catered for the Catholic Women’s League Annual Conference afternoon tea. We offered John Paul College as the venue, and the students made scones and served them with refreshments to the visitors. This took place in the school holidays, and it was heartening to see that the students were so keen to be involved. Teamwork was the order of the day. The students worked with Mrs. Fredricksen, the Year 13 Faith in Action teacher, in the school cooking room to produce the scones. These were served by Mrs. Aislabie and the Year 12 team.

Earlier this year we were given boxes of surplus tomatoes. The Year 12 students spent several hours making tomato soup which was put into containers and given to our local organisation Whaka ora, which provide food for those in Rotorua needing food assistance. There is a school vegetable garden that can also be accessed for these projects. This programme works so well, as there is buy in from several other teachers. The Food and Nutrition teacher, Mr. Davis, is very supportive of our initiatives. The Careers teacher, Mrs. Hewitson, also works closely with these students, because many need close accompaniment on their academic journey.

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NEW ZEALAND SECTOR Every year is different. As opportunities arise, students are quick to come up with ideas. Some like to work together in the school garden, alongside the Enviro group, getting the garden ready for planting, weeding etc.

We have catered for our Junior girls Lasallian camp by providing a tasty Friday night meal. We have even hosted a dinner for the marginalised in Rotorua. We were able to work with a local café, who agreed to open for the evening, for our exclusive customers only. Many had never eaten in a restaurant before and it was humbling to see their appreciation to our students, who served, sang, and amused the children while the parents chatted.

We regularly knit and sew beanies for winter to be given to families.

Our programme is flexible. We aim to help where we see a need in our local community. The programme is very popular. Many students are always asking to be considered. I am constantly impressed at the generosity and desire to make a difference by our young Lasallian students.

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PAKISTAN SECTOR Muslims & Christians Schooled in Peace Authors: Ms Hoorab Romail, Section Asst. Co-ordinator, St. Joseph’s High School Gujranwala (edited Br Gary Wilson) Religions, intolerance and violence go together many people believe in the modern world, while they proclaim peace and generosity in their own fields of endeavour.

Lasallian schools in the District’s Pakistan sector show how religions can operate harmoniously even in a politically defined official religion state (Editor).

Eid and its Significance “The word Eid means ‘feast’ or ‘Festival’. Each year the Muslim community celebrates two main feasts i.e., Eid-al-Fitr (festival of the Breaking of the Fast), which is celebrated at the end of Ramadan - the holy month when many adult Muslims fast, and Eid-al-Adha (feast of the Sacrifice), which is celebrated just over two months later at the same time when Muslims perform the Hajj Pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

On both of the occasions many Muslims offer special prayers at their local mosques and have a three-day celebration with the family and friends, during which they have family gatherings; they give presents, and share feasts and sweets.

“The Government of Pakistan usually announces 4-5 Eid Holidays all over the country. Students get very excited when Eid is around the corner, and they like to talk about the outfits and shoes that they plan to wear on visits...

“The festive occasions like ‘Eidan’ (plural of Eid) provide us an opportunity to bring people close to one another irrespective of caste, colour, creed, religion, ethnicity or gender, and to sit at the table of brotherhood” (Muhammad Imran, Teacher, La Salle Higher Secondary School, Multan)

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PAKISTAN SECTOR Celebrating Eid in Solidarity with Christians “Christians greet Muslims with the special greeting of ‘Happy Eid’ or traditionally they say ‘Eid Mubarak’ on this occasion. During Ramadan, in some La Salle Schools the administration organizes “Iftar Party” “(having meal together after breaking the fast) for all the staff members...Christian and Muslim.

“Religious harmony can be seen during the Eidan but also it is witnessed when the administration and staff gather for Christmas Party - celebrating the birth of Christ with exchanging gifts, sharing laughter and good music... Having the religiously diverse staff at... St. Joseph’s High School Gujranwala, the oneness is daily witnessed when everyone recites the Lasallian Teacher’s Prayer altogether, not to mention both the Christian and Muslim students say the Peace Prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi every morning during the assembly...We also make sure that before starting any official celebration there is recitation of the Holy Quran and the reading from the Holy Bible”.

Mr. Muhammad Imran, teacher in La Salle Higher Secondary School, Multan also sees how celebrations “promote harmony and respect for all in the society... We are happy to state that the Brothers regularly arrange ‘Eid Milan Parties’ at the occasion of ‘Eid-ul-Fitr’ in the school to promote peaceful and respectful working environment at our school.

Whereas the Muslim staff members also organize ‘Eid Milan Parties’ after the ‘Eid-ul-Adha’... We are grateful to God for providing us such a real environment at La Salle Higher Secondary School, Multan” He sees a unity in “an awesome and remarkable family”.

Freedom of Religious Observances and its Implementations Ms Hoorab notes that “Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Founder of Pakistan during his Presidential Address to the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan on August 11, 1947, stated: ‘You are free; you are free to go to your temples. You are free to go to your mosques or to any other place of worship in this state of Pakistan. You may belong to any religion or caste or creed - that has nothing to do with the business of state’.

“Being a ‘minority’ in whatever part of the world that one lives in, is absolutely very challenging. Christianity is being taught... (in Pakistani) Churches and Sunday Schools... There is a special subject of Catechism which is being taught at Christian schools.

It is definitely hard and challenging to give religious teaching in a country where there is 295-C blasphemy Law Act, which allows giving a death sentence and lifetime imprisonment to a person who does blasphemous acts against Islam. But still the Christian schools have the policies which make sure that no such circumstances arise.

“Catholic Board of Education provides books for teaching Catechism in Catholic Mission Schools. This year, the government of Pakistan has made an announcement that Catechism books will be part of the curriculum from the next year onwards for Christian students. This initiative by the government is highly appreciated, as it will give freedom to both communities to learn about their respective religions. (Muslim students study compulsory ‘Islamiat’. Ed.)

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PAKISTAN SECTOR Religious Harmony in Pakistan “Emile Durkheim, a pioneer sociologist described ‘religion’ with the ethereal statement that it consists of “things that surpass the limits of our knowledge” (1915). He elaborated: Religion is “a unified system of beliefs and practices relative to sacred things, that is to say, set apart and forbidden, beliefs and practices which unite into one single moral community, called a church, all those who adhere to them” (1915).

“Religion performs the key function of providing social solidarity in a society. The belief in the divine existence and the idea of worshipping the Almighty God has brought Christians and Muslims together in Pakistan and unified them.

Religious harmony in Pakistan is a concept that indicates that there is love and affection between different religions in Pakistan. Living in a peaceful and harmonious environment is important when the society consists of diverse races and religious adherents...”

‘We are one under the shadow of this flag, We are one; we are one.

Our happiness is mutual and so is our grief, We are one; we are one’

The Role of Catechists in the Dialogue with Muslims in Pakistan Historical background of Christians in Pakistan and need for dialogue Author: Br Zafar Daud, De La Salle Brother Traces of Christianity are found historically from St. Thomas the Apostle’s presence in the court of Gondopharnes, the famous king of Taxila near Rawalpindi between 19 and 45 A.D. A few Christian communities existed in the northern areas of Pakistan. Since then, Christian travelers have crossed this land from time to time without making any significant impact. Later in the 16th Century, Jesuit priests arrived at Moghul Emperor Akbar’s court in 1583. Because of the lack of support by Emperor Shahjehan by 1650, the Church’s efforts had not borne much fruit.

The real beginning of Christian evangelization started when the British rulers granted religious freedom to all its inhabitants in the whole British empire. This change of policy helped those in the service of British Army and their Christian employees.

The missionary work in Punjab and other provinces of Pakistan started with the arrival of Capuchin and Jesuit priests in 1855 who arrived from Agra and Bombay.

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PAKISTAN SECTOR With the arrival of missionaries to cater the needs of the British army and religious freedom, evangelization took place in large scale. Most of the missionary work began among the low cate Hindus in the areas of Sialkot. By learning the local languages, the missionaries were able to effectively preach the gospel among the common people.

A large number of people embraced the Christian faith among whom many were from the poorest of the poor. Most of them worked for Hindu, Sikh, or Muslim landlords. The Christian missionaries acquired lands from the British empire and established Christian villages for the identity and Christian formation of the converts. Many of the Christian converts moved to cities for ordinary jobs and livelihood. The job of sweeping was an easily available opportunity for unskilled and uneducated people. This provided an opportunity for them to settle in city and earn their living.

The missionary work was expanded but in order to reach the people they asked the local people to accompany the missionaries in their work. Some of the young boys with little education were chosen and they were called “Babu” Adha, Sialkot. This is the beginning of the Catechists movement.

The role of Catechists in evangelization and dialogue A Catechist is assigned from the parish for a particular community. He does the spade work for the parish priest. Most of the time the Christian families are scattered in a vast geographical area or villages. In some villages there are five or ten Christian families, in others fifty or hundred families. Catechist reaches out to these families for their spiritual needs, teaching catechism, guiding and helping them in other matters of life. Sometimes they even settle the petty disputes and have to deal with government officials under the guidance of the parish priest.

A Catechist is the person who visits each family and helps them grow in faith and in social and economic matters. Since he lives with the faithful, he gets involved with the people, both Christians and Muslims. As a local religious leader of the community, he initiates dialogue with Muslims. The dialogue is not necessarily on religious matters but far more often it concerns socio-political matters, which helps both the communities to understand and accept each other.

In a country like Pakistan, one must be open to Inter-Faith dialogue. A person has to dialogue, other progress is not achieved. Dialogue is absolutely necessary to survive.

Catechists at St. Albert’s Catechists Training Centre are formed to be open to other faiths. Catechists must be fully aware of the Islamic studies. This knowledge which can help them in their field work, especially in the areas where both Islam and Christianity agree. Both faiths being Abrahamite religions share a lot in common and that can be the beginning of a dialogue.

At our Catechists’ Training Centre, we not only prepare the gentlemen to be a good Catechists, but we also train the wives of the trainees to be fully involved in the apostolate. Many women folk when they come do not know to read and write. For this purpose, we have adult Education classes for the wives of Catechists, thus the whole family gets involved in the mission.

One such couple when they graduated from the Centre took deep interest in reaching out to Muslims. During the Muslim Holy month of Ramadhan, they fasted from Sehri (before sunrise) to Iftari (to sunset). They broke fast with different Muslim families. They got many invitations for breaking of the fast.

Slowly people started sending meals for Sehri as well. Slowly this couple invited Muslims couples to fast with them in the season of Lent. This was more difficult because their Christian fast was not as strict as the Muslim fast. Explaining this Christian notion of fasting was very difficult.

There are occasions when Muslims have helped Christians to build chapels, or have helped them to acquire land for church or contributed in the form of labour for the building.

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PAKISTAN SECTOR The catechist works at the very grassroot level. Pakistan is a country where 97% population is Muslim. Due to the poverty, social discrimination, and religious prejudice there are many problems that Christians face in an Islamic country and the only way to bring people closer is a peaceful dialogue at every level.

Social services, such as schools and hospitals are very helpful in the practice of dialogue. Many of the Muslim students come to our schools for education, discipline, and learning values. Humility and a sense of service are effective in the process of education.

On the road to becoming De La Salle Brothers Authors: Shahzad Gill & Qulb-E-Noor In joining St. Miguel House of Formation was a dream for both of us. On 30th August 2016 that dream became a reality when we stepped into the Formation House as Aspirants.

We commenced our journey with Brother Qumar John Iqbal FSC (Director) and Brother Gregory Ferguson FSC (Sub-Director), who were both blessings in disguise for us.

Journeying with God is always full of adventures. We had a lot to celebrate in the Formation House including celebrating birthdays and feast days, the reception of the holy religious habit and the profession of vows.

Life in the Formation House was also a challenge as it was a new experience. Morning and evening prayers, daily Masses and building a solid relationship with God through our personal prayers helped us overcome these challenges.

We had classes in Church History, Lasallian Studies, English, liturgy and on other topics. They helped us develop our interest in diverse areas of knowledge. Senior Brothers facilitated our progress. In addition, to enhance our personal skills, we were fortunate to have music sessions twice a week.

Over the past five years, we were blessed to have senior Brothers mentoring and accompanying us. Br Aloysius Hurrell, our sports coach, helped us develop an interest in sports and indoor games and kept us healthy and active. Brothers Qumar John Iqbal, Zohaib Gill and Saddique Gill, who accompanied us in all areas of life to ensure that one day we would become shining De La Salle Brothers.

Our experience does not end here, but these are the moments that still inspire us every time we think about it. We both admire and thank the untiring efforts of all the Brothers and Aspirants who accompanied us in different ways.

We hope the Brothers and Aspirants will remember us in their prayers as our formation continues. We too pray to God that His divine mercy may guide us.

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PAKISTAN SECTOR Thirty-three candidates attend Vocations Camp Author: Zamran Nathanial, Aspirant Vocation is a gift from God. God’s will reveals itself through the desires of one’s own heart. Sometimes people cannot respond accordingly or even recognise their vocation because of an unawareness of the call.

To help young men recognise God’s call and help them discern their vocation, the De La Salle Brothers of the Pakistan Sector, assisted by the Aspirants, conducted a three-day vocation camp at St. Miguel House of Formation.

The theme for the Vocation camp was “One call, many voices”. Thirty-three candidates from areas across the country were in attendance. Sector Coordinator, Br Shahzad George Gill, and Br Saddique Gill, Director of St. Miguel House of Formation, welcomed all participants and wished them well on their journey of discernment.

Brothers facilitated sessions on the following topic: •

Prayer Life,

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What is a vocation?

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The life and work of St. John Baptist De La Salle,

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Lasallian Mission in Pakistan,

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Life in the Formation House.

A talent night was also held to give participants a chance to show their diverse talents. Individual personal interviews with each candidate and members of the Formation House staff concluded the program.

Overall, the program was deemed a success.

“God has chosen you to make Him known to others.” (St John Baptist de La Salle)

Celebrating Sixty Years of Excellence Author: Ms Ruby Johnson, Headmistress Girls’ Section La Salle Girls High School Faisalabad On the successful completion of sixty years of La Salle High School & College Faisalabad, I feel privileged to witness the school’s outstanding contribution in the field of education and how the school has magnificently carried the Lasallian values. A Diamond Jubilee is an important occasion reminding us of our glorious past and helping us keep ourselves motivated, committed and determined to serve future generations with moral, discipline and spiritual values. It is an opportunity to reflect on the Institute’s achievements and prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.

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PAKISTAN SECTOR The late Rt. Rev. Bishop F. B Benedict Cialeo and the late Br. Renaud established La Salle High School Faisalabad in 1961.

The institution was solemnly declared opened by Mr Sadiq, Director of Education (Lahore), on 11 June 1962.

Throughout the years La Salle High School Faisalabad has transformed into a progressive community pursuing excellence and distinction with Lasallian students engaging in a variety of disciplines surrounded by the Lasallian values. An obvious example of this is the school’s extremely high academic standards and the wide range of sports and extracurricular activities that illustrate the school’s approach to nurturing and supporting students’ learning capabilities from all walks of life.

La Salle High School & College have played a pivotal role in creating an environment of excellent pedagogic strategies that aim to equip our students in all fields of life, from art to science, sports to spirituality, discipline to respect and harmony to tolerance. These are the qualities inculcated into our students and set us apart from all other educational institutions in the country.

Records speak for themselves and the past academic records of La Salle High School speak vociferously regarding our students’ academic achievements in the Board Examinations. It is no small feat that not only do our students manage to get the honours of holding the top positions in the Board Examinations, but the number of our students attaining a percentage of 90 or higher is also highly commendable.

Likewise, La Salle High School has won many laurels in sports events such as basketball, cricket and table tennis. Our students have won scholarships based on their sports’ achievements. Some of our former students are even playing at the state and national level in Table Tennis and Basketball fields. Our school has grown rapidly and today it stands tall with pride by providing impressive buildings equipped with the latest computer and science labs and expansive playing fields. The school has grown from strength to strength under the able guidance of ten principals in the past and now it occupies a very special place of pride among the educational institutions of the Faisalabad District.

La Salle Faisalabad has always held classes on value education to inculcate human values among the students. It promotes harmonious and holistic development among students where we honour the past, energies the future and the present becomes a celebration.

The 60 years Jubilee could be called the Year of Excellence and Gratitude because we are grateful for so much.

To mark the Jubilee, we have organised different events: •

Jubilee Cricket Match: Old Lasallians VS School Cricket Team.

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Wall of Paragon since 1961.

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Spring Festival (Clean Green Pakistan)

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Prefects’ Election

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Feast of the Guardian Angels

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PAKISTAN SECTOR A short program was organised to mark the Diamond Jubilee year to pay tribute to the pioneers, former principals, teachers and our former students. The teachers and Brother Shahid Mughal (Principal) delivered speeches to congratulate those who have contributed to La Salle Faisalabad. A pictorial wall with historic pictures was installed as a gallery to remind us of our past and success since 1961.

The two cricket matches to mark the Diamond Jubilee year were played. The first match was played between the present school cricket team and the old Lasallians (Doctors), the second match was played between the present school cricket team and old Lasallians (Lawyers). This cricket match was an opportunity for this group of old Lasallians to recall their past school life. At the end of the match, everyone raised the slogan, “Once a Lasallian, always a Lasallian.”

Upcoming Diamond Jubilee Celebrations: 1.

Students Jubilee program (13 & 14 October 2021) 2. Lasallian Alumni and Staff get together (23 October 2021)

Cambridge Recognises Pakistani Students Authors: Br Gary Wilson/ Hadayat Nazar Schools worldwide want to salute their achieving students. La Salle Higher Secondary School Multan is no different. In a recent academic year, two Lasallian students topped school groups in Pakistan 0-Level examinations held in November 2020.

Br. Shahzad Gill, Principal reported that “Master Muhammad Dawood Ghaffar, son of Abdul Ghaffar, has got distinction in ‘Combined Science’ (5129) securing ‘Top in World’ position. He got ‘A*’ in Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry and ‘A*’ in Biology”.

Muhammad, 15, had been studying the international Cambridge Course since Year 8, offered by many formally mission-schools in Pakistan. He also enjoys plenty of out-of-class school activities.

Not to be outdone, “Miss Abiah Eleen Paul, 17-year-old daughter of Rt. Rev. Roderick Leo Paul (Bishop of Multan) has got distinction in ‘Religious Studies’ (2048Y >>> RS) securing ‘Top in Punjab (Pakistan)’ position. She got ‘A*’ in Religious Studies. (studies in various religions is highly regarded in Muslim Pakistan, and among Christians, a very small minority in the nation).

Independence Day Celebrations Author: Hadayat Nazar, Teacher, La Salle Higher Secondary School, Multan Pakistan came into existence on 14th August 1947 due to the untiring efforts of great leaders like Allama Muhammad Iqbal and Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who aimed to create a separate state for the Muslims and the minorities of the Sub-continent.

The people of Pakistan celebrate Independence Day on 14th August every year. The main Independence Day ceremony takes place in Islamabad followed by a 31-gun salute in the national capital and a 21-gun salute in the provincial capitals.

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PAKISTAN SECTOR Parliament House, the Presidency, the Prime Minister’s Secretariat, and the Supreme Court hoist the national flag.

These buildings and others are decorated and illuminated with lights and bright colours. The national anthem is played, and the speeches of the President and the Prime Minister and other leaders are live televised.

At the beginning of the month, special stalls, funfairs, and shops are set up across the country to sell national flags, badges, pictures of national heroes, and other celebratory items. People happily decorate their vehicles, homes, and streets with national flags, banners, candles, and lamps. People start the day with special prayers for the integrity and solidarity of the country. Public functions, parades, seminars, televised transmissions, music and poetry contests, children’s shows, and art exhibitions are common celebrations. Along with the flag hoisting, the national anthem is sung at various government places, schools, residences, and monuments on the day. Homage is paid to the people who lost their lives during the migration and riots which followed the independence in 1947.

This year La Salle Higher Secondary School, Multan, organised a special program to highlight the importance of Independence Day. Along with the teachers and the students, parents were also invited to the program.

The program included a recitation from the Holy Quran and the Holy Bible and hoisting the national flag. Students participated in a talent show which included singing patriotic songs, a colourful tableau, speeches, a dress show, a skit about the personalities and the contribution of the national heroes of the freedom movement and dance performances.

To conclude the program, Br Shahzad Gill shared his views and insights and congratulated all those who participated in the program.

Authors: Sania-High Section, Abigail John, Rimal Atif, Minahil Shahid Independence of any country is of great importance for its people. Being independent provides much freedom and respect to the people of a country. They live and enjoy their own customs and ethnicities according to their own religion. Every year, we Pakistanis celebrate this day as a great fiesta. Pakistan achieved the Independence on 14th August 1947. Under the supreme leadership of our founder Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the tireless labor of our ancestors. Our national poet Allama Iqbal introduced the theory of Pakistan. Quaid-e-Azam brought that dream into existence, as Pakistan appeared on the map of the world as an independent country. Pakistan is also known as the stronghold of Islam.

For this special day for all the Pakistanis La Salle High School, Campus II, organized a special program to celebrate 14th August with huge excitement. All the students and teachers collectively had prepared many items like speeches, flag hoisting, cultural dance, etc. To see children performing on different national songs embraced the spirit of patriot in us all.

This early morning of 14th of August whole school gathered in ground which was beautifully decorated with flags and balloons and the program began and our respected Principal Brother Sajid Bashir gave a short introduction stressing on the importance of the day.

We normally celebrate 14th of August as a national holiday to keep alive the spirit of patriotism, to build up the confidence of the students and also to bring out their hidden talents which is basic intention of administration staff. I enjoyed the day to the fullest as the whole program was well organized.

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PAKISTAN SECTOR The school building was fully decorated with passion and zeal. We also sang the national anthem whole heartedly.

But the thing which really make me feel free is the dress of the students and teachers. They all wore green and white clothes which is the color of our national flag. With all this our Principal, Admin Staff, along with Brothers, visited all the classrooms from nursery till grade ten and every class was beautifully decorated. This day reminded us that being Pakistanis we are not different, but we are one family. Every student brought delicious dishes from their homes.

Patriotism is your conviction that this country is superior to all others because you were born in it.

We, as true citizens of Pakistan, want to work for the greater good of our country and especially for development.

The teachers, as nation builders, and students, as the future of the country, work towards the development our dear homeland. Participation of the students in the program show their love and respect towards their motherland. We prayed as a school for the better and brighter future of Pakistan.

Long Live Pakistan, Long Live La Salle!

Br Aloysius helping needy girl students in Pakistan A man of influence, with good connections is Br. Aloysius Hurrell. He has been working over several years in the Young Men’s Aspirancy, teaching proficiency in English, music and sports to fifteen would-be Brothers, as they pursue senior secondary and basic university studies.

The compound in Faisalabad, Pakistan, is also the site of La Salle Urdu High School, the Brothers’ community house and – across the road- La Salle Girls High and Boys High and College. A perceptive man in his Lasallian ministry, Brother Aloysius is aware of the needs of the very poorest whom the Brothers and their Colleagues educate. The Girls High School has some very needy girls, smart, but struggling to complete their senior education. As Br. Shahid Mughal, Principal says: “The Pakistan education system has a lot of issues in it. One of the major issues is the rising costs, and poor quality of education in public institutions, where most of underprivileged children go to be educated. To access a quality education in private institutions is a dream of every disadvantaged and poor children. Scholarships are a way to access this level of education.”

As a private Christian school, the Boys and Girls High Schools commit to a program of scholarships for very economically challenged students. Girls are further disadvantaged in the local culture. Most boys finish their schooling.

Eligibility rules are to pass one’s Matriculation exams with 55% +, and that the family income is less than PAK 2.5 lakh p.a. There is also a reference required from a Bishop / parish priest. If the girl is a non-Catholic, a reference or recommendation from a known person is required.

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PAKISTAN SECTOR As Br. Shahid wrote in his letter of thanks to all benefactors: “Thank you for your timely, financial support. Hoping your support will change lives. May your life be blessed”.

The reality on the ground is deep gratitude from the young ladies. The vision is that they will be able to help support their families significantly, with better jobs in the future.

Challenges become opportunities at St Joseph’s Girls High School, Gujranwala Since mid-March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all aspects of our school life at St Joseph’s Girls High School. Although this period has presented unique challenges, it has also presented new opportunities and responsibilities for students, staff and parents who quickly adapted to new ways of learning. Most of our students do not have laptops, smartphones or a stable internet connection at home. However, their ability and willingness to step up to the challenge and adapt has been very stimulating. Creative ways of teaching and learning were developed to avoid learning losses and help students stay on track.

School returned to face-to-face learning on 11th October 2021. Our warm, dedicated teachers continue to ensure that each student can achieve their full potential in their academic, creative, personal, physical, moral and spiritual development. We, as Lasallians, are responsible for shaping those entrusted to our care so that they grow up and sow seeds of blessings wherever they are planted.

As school life returned to normal, teachers are busy organising co-curricular activities to enhance learning experiences for students. Below are a few examples of activities that have been successfully carried out: Sharing and Caring Day Sharing is the best gesture to show that you care. On ‘Sharing and Caring Day’, students had the option of sharing a thing or an experience. Many students chose to share tasty food while others shared good thoughts about each other.

Poster Competition An inter-class ‘Poster Competition’ was held to bring awareness among the students about COVID- 19. Students were tasked with creating a poster on “How to protect yourself and others from COVID”. Students participated in this activity with great enthusiasm.

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PAKISTAN SECTOR Students Investiture Ceremony An oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected students’ council 2020-21 was held. The students took an oath to perform their duties with commitment, honesty and resilience. The students were presented with colourful sashes and badges.

Spelling and Speech Competition A Spelling Competition was held to provide students with a platform to improve their spelling and increase their vocabulary. Inter-classes Urdu and English Speech competitions were also held. All the students vigorously participated in both competitions.

Teachers’ Day Celebration Teacher’s Day was celebrated to highlight the contributions and achievements of the teachers in the School. It was also an opportunity to wish our Principal, Br Christie Dorus, a Happy Birthday.

Bringing to Limelight - The Pursuit of Fulfilling Lasallian Mission in Gujranwala Lead Author: Miss Hoorab Romail, Assistant Coordinator of Middle Section, St. Joseph’s English High School, Gujranwala Believing that everything that has ever happened, is still happening and will happen, for some reason, we also believe that the creation of universe

by God has a purpose, yet it is full of mystery. If we look around, we realize that green-life and wild-life have some purpose for being part of this world. Even non-living things and stones have some mysterious purposes.

Above all, humanity is one of the most beautiful creations of God, and we, as human beings are often perplexed when we ask “Why has God created us?

What was the need of creating us? Why are we sent to this world?”. One way of getting answers is by reading the Holy Scripture because it tells us about the creation of the world and God’s purpose of creating it. We believe that humanity’s purpose is to look after the world that God has created because creation belongs to God, not people. This service is known as ‘Stewardship’ which has been assigned to humans as a mission and we try to fulfill that mission through different ways.

Considering the fact that ways can be different but mission is one, humans have made ministries such as church, educational, counselling, human rights etc. But the thing that matters the most is whatever mission one is working on should be done with whole heart, mind and soul.

As it has been said by St. John Baptist de La Salle, “Fulfill your ministry with all the affection of your heart.”

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PAKISTAN SECTOR In light of that, the De La Salle Brothers Administration at St. Joseph’s English High School Gujranwala believes in developing for the students and teachers their unique God-given talents and fostering a dedication to scholastic accomplishment, service, and leadership. No wonder, they have been successfully accomplishing their mission in Gujranwala since 2019.

Living Out the Lasallian Core Values Keeping Lasallian Values in mind as their beacon, the La Salle Brothers and partners in Gujranwala are moving ahead every day with majestic stimulation as they accomplish their mission by doing remarkable work every single day at St. Joseph’s English High School Gujranwala.

Sustained by Faith Being part of one Lasallian family and having alike mission, we are nurturing our students and teachers with a belief in the existence of God among us. We show this Lasallian value by reciting: “Let us remember that we are in the Holy Presence of God”, when we gather for the Morning Assembly. Moreover, all the students regardless of their religious beliefs recite the prayer of Peace by St. Francis of Assisi in the morning, which energizes and empowers them to do good deeds.

Through these efforts the faith of the school community is sustained.

Transforming Lives Each morning, the teachers give an informative and thoughtful reflection on topics which help them in promoting social, moral, and ethical values.

At St. Joseph’s, teachers, as nation builders, are not just working hard to make the students stand out academically but also to make them as solid as rocks In this way, they will be able to face life challenges and conquer them with great courage and patience. The Value Education program which teachers give to students on Fridays plays a vital role.

We, as school community, live out the Lasallian core value ‘Teaching Minds and Touching Hearts’ by providing quality education. We make sure that everyone feels they are part of the school regardless of their religious beliefs, caste, colour, and social or financial status. Even the junior staff is respected equally by administration, teaching staff, and students.

One of the most significant traits of living out the Lasallian value at St. Joseph’s is its diverse and inclusive community.

We are so proud to have a diverse teaching staff and students, yet so respected and thus unified in their mission. We are one Lasallian family.

Energizing Teachers and Students for Mission The Lasallian Mission in Gujranwala is also committed in energizing teachers for mission through professional training.

The administrators of St. Joseph’s English High School in Gujranwala have invited to two teachers, Ms. Hoorab Romail and Ms. Monica Samson, to be part of Spark Teachers Training Program offered by Catholic Board of Education.

Spark Teachers Program aims to train teachers in academic and non-academic matters so that they in turn can train eight teachers in their respective schools.

Apart from that, teachers are energized and motivated to accomplish the mission by arranging events and celebrations for them which consequently promote cordiality and solidarity among them.

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PAKISTAN SECTOR We are excited to step into the New Year and continue working on our mission with greater spirit and zeal. We are delighted to glance back at this year 2021. St. Joseph’s English High School Gujranwala takes pride in successfully holding events where the students had fun and the teachers’ efforts and hard work was also appreciated. Our school managed to facilitate and provide students with COVID-19 vaccination, awareness sessions, and leadership opportunities. Some of the significant events that we held this year are listed below: 1. Frontline healthcare workers visited the school for COVID-19 testing and then they also vaccinated junior staff and teachers.

2. On 14th August, the school celebrated Independence Day of Pakistan with zest and zeal. Teachers and students were thrilled to celebrate this significant day in school.

3. On October 2nd, the Disciplinary Committee of school organized Oath Taking Ceremony of Prefects. In the ceremony, prefects took an oath in front of whole school community that they will fulfill their responsibilities honestly and wholeheartedly.

4. On 14th October, the school celebrated Teacher’s Day. The Cultural Committee of school organized and managed that event. The school also celebrated, the 71st birthday of our highly respected Principal Brother Christie Dorus.

5. Our school recently had a visit from the Punjab Emergency Service Rescue 1122 Gujranwala team. They gave an awareness session regarding following traffic rules, preventing accidents, and responding to incidents.

6. On 23rd October, the Sports Committee of school held Cricket Tournament for Primary Section. Students excitedly took part in this sports event.

7. School successfully held ‘Spelling Bee and Vocabulary Learning Competition 2021’ for Primary, Middle, and High Section on 1st, 2nd, and 3rd November respectively.

We look forward to marking our to-do list further, doing even more than what we have done so far. It is all about fulfilling our Lasallian mission of transforming lives, energizing people for mission, and sustaining faith in them.

As Robert Collier, an American author has said, “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day-in and day-out”.

We, the school administration being as one Lasallian family firmly believes that altogether we can achieve greater milestones.

Inter La Salle Sports Meet 2021 Author: Br Qumar John La Salle Khushpur #LearningNeverStops We had our annual sports on the 11th of November 2021. The day was full of fun and excitement. The school building, the main gate, and the playground were well decorated. Both boys and girls took part in it. The preparation started a week earlier. At 6 p.m. the Principal along with the Chief Guest declared the sports program open. There was march pass by the players, the beating the drums and clapping. The Principal and Guest of Honour took the salute. The events included races, jumps, other track races, and four major Sports (Cricket, Football, Badminton, and Handball for the Girls. The events closed with a prize-giving ceremony. The prizes were given by the school Principal (Bro. Qumar John fsc) along with Head Teachers.

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA SECTOR Quality Education Across Provinces: Lasallian History, 1957-2000 What follows is a comprehensive summary of the history of the Brothers working in pre-Independence Papua New Guinea, the subsequent developments of the Lasallian Mission and the progress achieved in the recent past and present

by Brothers, Lasallian Family and partners.

CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING

PNG Celebrate 75 Years of Lasallian Mission The 75th Anniversary celebration took almost seven months of planning by the 75th Anniversary Organising Committee together with the Principals and School-based Lasallian Facilitators from each of our four Lasallian Schools in Port Moresby. The Thanksgiving Mass was scheduled to be held on 15th May 2021, the actual Feast Day of Our Founder; however, due to the COVID 19 restrictions, it was postponed to the 14th of August 2021.

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA SECTOR The Mass was to call to mind and thank the pioneer Brothers (Patrick Howard, Anthony Broderick, Lucian Thorpe and Celsus Maguire) who arrived on the shores of Papua New Guinea in 1946, one year after the end of World War II. Br. Antony Samy, FSC, Principal of De La Salle Secondary School, Bomana provided opening remarks and welcomed all guests. He introduced Br. Robert Schieler FSC (Superior General),Br Ricardo Angel Laguda FSC (General CouncilorPARC) and Br David Hawke FSC (Br Visitor of the Lasallian District of ANZPPNG). Their pre-recorded messages were presented on screen. All three recognised the significant contributions made by the pioneer Brothers, those who succeeded them and the current Brothers and lay partners in the Sector who collaborate to continue the mission.

Each school contributed to a part of the Liturgy. Jubilee High School led the choir with guidance from Br. Francis ToLiman CFC (NCD Lasallian Family Coordinator). They had meticulously practised for over three months to perfect their singing for the occasion. De La Salle Secondary School, Bomana facilitated the entrance procession, La Salle Technical College the offertory procession and Sacred Teachers’ College, Bomana, organised the recessional procession.

The Bishop of Bereina Diocese – His Grace, Rev. Otto Separy was the main celebrant, concelebrated by the SecretaryGeneral for the Catholic Bishops Conference for PNG & Solomon Islands, Fr. Giorgio Licini, PIME. They were joined by other invited priests from the Archdiocese of Port Moresby. Religious from different congregations were also present especially those who have worked closely with the Brothers. Staff, students and Alumni from various Lasallians schools were also in attendance.

The Bishop gave a fitting Homily about the Feast of the Assumption and the Blessed Virgin Mary’s call to holiness, humility and obedience. He compared her life of simplicity and sacrifice to the life of the De La Salle Brothers who have sacrificed themselves to come and educate the young people in the country, while also living a life of simplicity with meekness like Our Lady. On behalf of the Church and the Diocese of Bereina, he thanked the Brothers for making significant contribution to education in PNG. He said many of the people the Brothers and their lay partners taught are now in prominent positions contributing to the development of the country. This is a milestone for Lasallians.

Cornell Boniface Aruma from PNGDF and Sir Peter Miria Baki (former Education Secretary) gave wonderful tributes to the Brothers about their experience as students with the Brothers. The old boys were really passionate as they spoke of the Brothers’ contribution and how their lives were forever changed.

The ceremony concluded with lunch catered by Sacred Heart Teachers’ College under the leadership of Mrs Theckla Aknonero. The College prepared more than 700 lunch packs and after distribution only two were left. A great day of thanksgiving for the 75 years of Lasallian Mission in PNG was had by all.

Live Jesus in our Hearts…forever.

Click HERE to watch the video message from the Superior General Click HERE to watch the video message from the PARC General Councilor Click HERE to watch the video message from Br Visitor

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA SECTOR The Promise of Vitality through the lens of PNG Lasallian Women Author: Roselyn Tony, Lasallian Family Member 82 Lasallian Women from 12 Districts throughout Papua New Guinea attended the first-ever Papua New Guinea Lasallian Women’s Symposium. Former and current teachers and support staff from private, elementary, primary, secondary and IEA sectors were in attendance and represented Vanimo, Aitape, Madang, Milne Bay, East and West New Britain, NCD, AROB, Goroka, Simbu, Jiwaka and Mt Hagen.

The theme of the Symposium was ‘The Promise of Vitality through the lens of PNG Lasallian Women’. It focused on empowering participants to see through the eyes of faith and hope for a better future by completing a simple task in an extraordinary way to touch the hearts of the least, the lost and the marginalised.

The bilum (string bag) and the colour green were chosen as the symposium symbol. The bilum (string bag) symbolises the womb (bilum bilong pikinini) from where human life emerges and it is valued and protected at all times; be it in the home, school or community. The colour green signifies life. The promise of vitality is defined as the act of giving life for the future.

Each activity and keynote were centered around embracing and empowering women to see the influential qualities they possess. The daily devotions centered on reflecting influential women in the bible, e.g., Deborah, Ruth, Hannah, Abigail and Mother Mary. These women were influential because of their faith, hope and loyalty. They cultivated the soil, planted the seed and collected their harvest.

The panel discussions allowed the participant to reflect, prepare and work towards achieving a future of hope. The group discussions and activities empowered the women to realise that, in sharing, we receive care and confidentiality is maintained. The participants enthusiastically embraced each session with empowerment, reflections and vision into the future.

The women participants are now on the mission to go out and share, gain and ignite the Lasallian fire. They were tasked to embrace the good in each other because kindness keeps the world afloat.

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA SECTOR Lasallian Teachers' Induction has Tremendous Impact Authors: Br. Thomas, Br. Francis Toliman CFC and Grace Wrakia In consultation with Lasallian School principals, the Papua New Guinea Lasallian Family Office organised an induction program for twenty-one new teachers from De La Salle College Bomana, Jubilee Catholic College Hohola and La Salle Technical College Hohola at Nazarene House of Prayer overlooking the Laloki River and the city of Port Moresby.

Nazarene House of Prayer is owned and operated by the local congregation, the AD Sisters. Participants and facilitators took advantage of the quiet and calm surroundings to reflect and learn from each other and refocus on their calling as Teachers.

The program focused on three modules of Lasallian Formation; the Founding Story, Spirituality and Pedagogy and was presented by Miss Melinda Maro, Ms Grace Wrakia, Mr Michael Burke and Brothers Francis Toliman CFC, Alphonso Zonaetti FSC and Raffy Reyes FSC. The program allowed for individual reflection while also providing an opportunity for group discussion.

Overall, the Induction was well received and appreciated by those in attendance. The teachers expressed their appreciation for the challenging yet enriching program that allowed them to broaden their understanding of Lasallian Spirituality. Each session touched each person's heart positively in a different way and reignited their passion for teaching. The blend between Lasallian and Melanesian spirituality guided by the story of the Founder was well received and inspired participants both personally and professionally.

The Brothers' attendance, support and guidance had a tremendous impact on the lay partners. One could almost say John Baptist de la Salle was around. It was recommended that the Induction program be offered to all teachers in Lasallian Schools and "Non-Lasallian Schools".

The Induction was an excellent opportunity for teachers to be part of the miracle, to journey in FAITH knowing God is forever present, to deepen each person's call to SERVICE in the teaching ministry and to build a COMMUNITY of Christian educators with a common mission: "Touch Hearts, Teach Minds and Transform Lives".

Due to the program's success, the PNG Lasallian Family National Office is working with the NCD Area Coordinators to develop another Lasallian Formation Retreat for teachers in NCD and Central Province at the end of July.

LIVE JESUS IN OUR HEARTS!

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA SECTOR PNG Lasallian Youth Gathering 2021: "Building Our Future-The Youths with Christian Values and Moral Ethics."

Author: Josh Mois, About: Area Coordinator East Sepik Province Papua New Guinea Recently, the Lasallian Youth from Vanimo and Wewak travelled to Aitape to meet with the Aitape Youth for the triannual Momase Youth Gathering themed "Building Our Future-The Youths with Christian Values and Moral Ethics."

Aitape is a coastal town located in Aitape Lumi District in Sandaun Province of Papua New Guinea. The District was the host to our Momase Lasallian Youth Gathering according to our PNG context. Momase is a PNG region consisting of the following provinces: Morobe, Madang, and Sepik (East and West).

Upon arrival at St Martin's Pastoral Centre, participants were given a rousing welcome from the Aitape Youth with confetti and flowers. The event started in the evening with a Holy Mass and then the Official opening by the Catholic Education Secretary of Aitape Diocese. A hundred-plus youth gathered, and we concluded the evening with the Life Story of St John Baptist De La Salle.

Day two began with several sessions: •

Children's Rights and Responsibilities.

•

Non-Violent Way of Life.

•

The Spirituality of St John Baptist De La Salle.

• In a beautiful, insightful and inspirational presentation, Sr Rosella Lasi, a Franciscan Nun, captured the hearts of those in attendance in her presentation titled 'Non-Violent Way of Life'.

The youth were asked to choose a descriptive word that describes their names with a matching first letter. A student named Cecilia chose Creative Cecilia, and a boy named Marcellino chose Magnificent Marcellino. Almost all participants came up with descriptive words that affirm who they are. They came to realise that names play a vital role in their development as a mystical person.

On the final day of the Gathering, the youth and the teachers went on a Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Archangel St. Michael at Tumleo Island in Aitape. In history, Tumleo Island was the island on which the first Missionaries set foot.

It was such a wonderful experience for all who attended. De La Salle chose Parmenie for solitude to talk to Jesus in prayer with all the challenges he experienced in his life. The youth, too, can make connections and realise the importance of Prayer. Finding their own Parmenie and talking to God about all their problems can help them in their lives. Just like St John Baptist de La Salle was helped.

This opportunity created a new bond with participants who were excited to build a stronger community of Young Lasallians in their local PNG Context.

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA SECTOR Educating for the Nation: De La Salle Brothers and Teacher Training This is the third article on the history of the 75 years of the De La Salle Brothers and Partners’ work in education. It takes up their contribution to the nation in training teachers. The first excerpt 1946-56 mentioned the teaching college for young local men on Yule Island, centre of the Catholic Church mission in 1948.

Today there is a presence of the Brothers in the Sacred Heart Teachers’ Colleges in Bomana NCD and Holy Trinity Teachers’ College, Mt. Hagen in the Western Highlands The Brothers’ Mission began by teaching young men the basics in education. Later, they used this education to work as catechists in the villages. With their well-honed knowledge as teachers, it was natural that their work would extend to teacher training, promoting high standards, at a time when PNG was grappling with the challenges of independence. Over the years, young Melanesian graduates have helped progress much-needed literacy in the more remote areas of the country. This result, also, was always an aim of the Lasallian mission outreach to the most marginalised and disadvantaged people of the nation.

Two Decades at Yule Island – the Teachers’ College By 1952, a local government inspector could praise what the four pioneer Brothers had achieved in four years, in training young men for village teaching in Catholic communities on the mainland. Four years later, a fulltime course had begun. By 1960, a separate Our Lady of the Sacred Heart (OLSH) College for women with Principal Sr. Regina was established. Another four years saw the two colleges amalgamated into a co-educational teacher training facility. This was very innovative in a traditional patriarchal culture. A later pioneer, Brother Columban became Principal and later followed by Br. Leo (John) Cleary in 1966.

Br. Leo said the philosophy was that “the best teachers, generally, were those born and bred in the culture”, albeit with a multitude of student language groups. That mindset was not always prominent in many missionaries’ actions. With 93 enrolments in 1971, Bishop Klein helped finance and plan extensions, together with a Government grant. However, an inspector reported inadequate facilities.

Concurrently, Catholic authorities were reluctant to close any of its five teachers’ colleges in any rationalisation planning.

With a bombshell decision, the Acting Diocesan Head, Fr. Fraix, MSC, announced in July the closure of the College at year’s end, citing its drain on finances. Uproar of students and “tense weeks followed” according to Br. Leo; angry protests to Mission authorities ensued. Teacher graduates from 1964 to 1971 were 202 women and 225 men.

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA SECTOR Thus ended fifteen consolidating years by the Brothers, in fulfilling their original purpose in their mission – the education of teachers. Philip Cahill* in his historical memoir, noted the excellent results in the public examinations, and the recognised dedication of graduates. Years later, the fruits of their work could be seen in a good and faithful number of ex-student teachers in Central Province participating in yearly religious retreats led by Br. Leo. Growing National Education In the early 1970’s, with independence looming, there were strong moves to localise education, with the Weedon Report. Br. Justin Joyce, previously Principal at DLS Bomana, had from 1968 been appointed as Mission Education Officer (MEO) for the Pt. Moresby archdiocese – with control of schools and teachers, new openings and inspections.

He then was appointed an inspector of Catholic teachers, who could apply for and now draw the same salaries as indigenous teachers. Rosary College Kondiu, under Br. Peter Mays, became a recognised training ground for prospective PNG headmasters. The program - ‘Associate Headmastership’ - was another way the Brothers contributed to teacher professional in-service.

In the later 1970’s, DLS Mainohana was chosen as one school in the Secondary Schools Community Extension Pilot Project (SSCEPP) to identify employment and development in rural areas. De La Salle High School at Mainohana’s technical and agricultural skills learning for senior students was already progressing the project’s aims to lead post-Year 10 boys back into their communities for employment. Such appointments, which later included Brothers Brendan Crowe, Ed Becker & Bede French as MEO’s in Catholic diocesan education, highlighted the reputation of, and esteem for, the calibre of the De La Salle educational training contribution.

A Second Teachers’ College in Mt. Hagen The College was begun in the mid-60’s, under Mr & Mrs Meere. In 1979, the Brothers created a small community in the Highlands, and Br. Edward Becker became Acting Principal of the Trinity Catholic Primary Teachers College in Mt. Hagen (HTTC). The College served students from several provinces. In his history of the Brothers’ Institute, Peter Donovan calls this Brothers’ involvement “one of the more significant developments”, citing the Provincial Br. Quentin’s belief that teacher education was the policy to offer the best service to the new nation. Brother Patrick McInerney, a Maths lecturer, was one of many Australian Brothers, over the next couple of decades lecturing in mathematics, sciences, art, religious studies, music, or being in charge of finance, the library, practical teaching stints, or as dean of students. The Welsh Brother Ambrose Gwynne was outstanding as a lecturer of music and as a person.

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA SECTOR There was a close partnership and sense of community built up with women religious on staff with the Sisters of Mercy (from 1969), those of Notre Dame, Franciscans and the Holy Spirit. These strong women emphasised the importance of training female teachers. Brother Peter Gilfedder, a later Principal for several years in the 1990’s, worked closely with deputy Sr. Agnes Murphy, RSM. Br. Rick Gaffney describes the presence of Brothers there: “The dedication of my fellow lecturers in their determination, not to only educate their students, but also form them as teachers so that they would see teaching as a vocation…

The students themselves were an inspiration, often living at college a long way from their homes and families. (There were)…many sacrifices they were prepared to make to become a teacher”.

The activity of one Brother – Ignatius Kennedy- at HTTC, was very significant: he gradually established an ad hoc network of ‘Lasallian Teachers’. As a Religion lecturer, then a committed mentor, he inspired interest in Lasallian spirituality for teachers. Whether it was giving religious formation, providing young teacher graduate resources, or chasing up their salaries from the Department, he formed the foundation and impetus for the present-day Lasallian Family Association of hundreds of remote / regional teachers Mentoring & Supporting Young National Brother Teachers As mentioned by Philip Cahill, it became a pattern in the Brothers’ work in the late 1980’s and 1990’s to put more emphasis on their training and accompaniment of several youths drawn to their way of life. This was fully in in step with their tradition, and a definite policy, i.e., to hand over the education they were providing to local men. The Mt. Hagen Brothers’ community from 1979 had allowed for the on-going placement of young teacher-trainee Brothers. Br. Patrick, a veteran of 23 years in PNG accompanied some of them.

By the later 1980’s there were up to 12 National Brothers as primary school or elementary school teachers. However, none of the Brothers’ communities was specifically established for a primary school ministry. Therefore, National Brothers often had to travel each day to get to their Community School or Elementary School where they were working. National Brothers themselves looked at various options, recalled Br. Rick. Communities and schools at Kagua (1982) and Mun (1999) were examples of accommodating this need. Sadly, all National Brothers found the Melanesian culture and Western religious life incompatible for them: this was one factor for their discontinuance.

One other creative attempt to encourage educational service, mentoring and training for several young men, interested in the Brothers’ life, was the Tok Ples Elementary Schools Project, initiated by Brs. Brendan Crowe, Bede French and later Phillip Elwin, in the 1990’s. It was an outreach to about 10 settlements in the NCD. Needy unschooled children were taught reading and writing. It operated for several years. The drastic need was to help extend literacy and numeracy especially in rural or remote regions, but also in the burgeoning Capital region.

In the clear policy to indigenise the Lasallian footprint in education, and promote National Brothers as leaders, the history of Br. Peter Keaga stands out (cf. also previous articles). Peter’s local educational qualifications, his strong identity as a Brother, and his long-time presidency of the PNG Teachers’ Association gave him a strong national profile.

He was Principal, also, of DLS Bomana from 1975-80. These qualities spoke clearly about the embedded nature of the Lasallian mission in PNG.

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA SECTOR Sacred Heart Teachers College (SHTC), Bomana 2010 The College emerged from an educational crisis- a lack of teachers prepared to work in isolated / remote areas in the Southern Region, especially with no support systems. Finally, five Catholic dioceses, with Pt. Moresby, were orchestrated by Fr. Paul Jennings MSC and Br. Bernard Cooper to begin planning in 2007 with their Catholic and National education authorities. SHTC was constituted by a Governing Council in 2009 and confirmed as part of the National Education System. The first intake of 54 male and 50 female students in 2010 graduated in November 2011, under Br. Bernard as Principal. Finance came from the European Union, AUSAid and several local and overseas donors.

Infrastructure, teachers’ houses, scholarships, tuition fees were all needed.

This shared Catholic community had taken on the Lasallian ethos which has always been focussed on the most marginalised and needy. Trainees are Grade 12 non-school leavers (80% from the Southern Region) who “have spent at least 12 months living in their village and demonstrated a commitment to remote village living and be prepared to staff remote area schools for a period of three or more years”. From 2011, the rigorous selection process – at village, provincial and College levels- produced (to date) 750 primary teachers for the nation’s remote areas. The College’s mission was to give a Christian, academic and vocational formation.

In terms of staffing and leadership, there was a concerted policy of gender diversity and shared responsibility. Other than De La Salle Brothers, on staff were Canossian and OLSH Sisters, and the Christian Brothers. The Lasallian spirit grew and several lay lecturers and administrators identified as ‘Lasallian’, including Theckla Aknonero and Rose Polume. The College Vision, as lecturer Br. Alf Zoanetti states it, is still “committed, creative, resilient and dedicated Christian teachers, at the service of the children in remote areas, especially the Southern region of Papua New Guinea”.

The College motto remains the Lasallian theme of “Touching Hearts, Educating Minds and Transforming Lives”.

Young Professional Teachers…

Serving Needy Village Students…

Changing Lives.

De La Salle College, Bomana De La Salle Bomana remembers them Author: Br Paul Toohey, De La Salle Brother Students and Staff of De La Salle Bomana have marked the 49th anniversary of that fateful Caribou flight from Lae to Port Moresby on 28 August 1972.

Aboard the plane were 3 RAAF crew, an Australian Army Captain, an Officer of Cadets and 24 PNG Army Cadets (23 from De La Salle High School and 1 from Popondetta High School). Only four cadets survived the crash in bad weather in the rugged mountains of Wau and Bulolo.

Guests at the commemoration included the two remaining survivors, Mr. Joseph Fraghi and Rev Patrick Gau, as well as Fr. Giorgio Licini (secretary Catholic Bishops Conference PNG/SI), 5 members of the RAAF (including Chaplain Andrew Morris and Squadron Leader Ian Murray), and Mrs. Duwang (BOG Chair).

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA SECTOR Towards the end of the Mass a simple ceremony was held at the monument site: flag raising and singing of the national anthems of Papua New Guinea and Australia, reading of the names of the deceased by Rev Gau, laying of wreaths and playing of the Last Post by a member of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force. Proceedings concluded with nicely prepared kaikai for all.

Congratulations to Br. Thomas and the Special Events Committee for overseeing the smooth running of a significant day in the long history of De La Salle Bomana!

Jubilee Catholic Secondary School, Hohola Jubilee wins book week quiz Author: The National Jubilee Catholic Secondary School was declared the winner of the National Book Week quiz competition in Port Moresby. Three schools – Port Moresby International, Jubilee Catholic and Tokarara Secondary – in the National Capital District, took part in the competition which started last Tuesday and finished with the finals on Monday.

The Acting Assistant Director of the Technical Service from the Office of Library and Archives, Bill Haro, said the quiz was the highlight of the National Book Week. He said the final was between Port Moresby International School and Jubilee.

The Jubilee team scored 39 points and Port Moresby International scored 34 points. Jubilee Catholic Secondary also won in 2016.

Haro said the quiz was to be held every year during National Book Week but had not been held over the last four years.

Mr. Haro said his office planned to have a bigger competition next year, involving more schools in NCD. Jubilee Catholic Secondary teacher Lucy Gabriel said her students had prepared well for the quiz and was pleased they had won the competition again. She said they hoped to compete in the expanded competition next year. The other schools that participated were also awarded prizes. This year’s theme was “Lock down, stay safe and read books”.

Later the Graduating Students attended a Media and Life Retreat.

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA SECTOR La Salle Technical College, Hohola La Salle Tech provide students with technical & vocational opportunities to advance their future careers Author: Australian High Commission Papua New Guinea La Salle Technical College in Port Moresby now has the facilities to provide students with technical and vocational opportunities to advance their future careers.

The new facilities include classrooms, workshop spaces, tutorial rooms, a motor mechanic training facility, a library, security provisions, a multi-purpose hall and administrative facilities.

These expansions have led to increased enrolments, especially among women who often miss out on technical and vocational opportunities.

Check out this video to see how

De La Salle Mainohana De La Salle Mainohana Alumni vow to give back De La Salle Mainohana Alumni is a group of young like-minded former students of Mainohana Catholic Secondary School. The group started small with ten members on the 3rd of July, 2021 with the aim of building its membership and giving back to the Institute that had played such a significant role in the members' lives.

The group is in its infant stages of development. One of its primary objectives is to register as a non-profitable organisation with the Papua New Guinea Investment Promotion Authority.

In this present era, Mainohana Catholic Secondary School is not at the standard of what it used to be when the De La Salle Brothers were in charge of administration. There are disciplinary issues, poor academic performance and inadequate infrastructure which affect the students.

In order to pay respect to the work of the De La Salle Brothers, the De La Salle Mainohana Alumni Group, in consultation with the Lasallians Alumni Association are committed to restoring the school, including the building of a Monument to recognise the deceased pioneer De La Salle Brothers, Brothers Anthony Roderick and Peter Keaga who are buried at the school’s cemetery.

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SIGNIFICANT APPOINTMENTS Principal of St Michael’s College, Adelaide Author: Marie Dorrington, Board Chair After eight and a half years of outstanding leadership as Principal of St Michael’s College, and previously eight years as Deputy Principal, John Foley has advised me that he will not be seeking to extend his tenure beyond his current term and has decided to conclude his time as Principal of St Michael’s College at the end of the 2021 school year.

As only the second lay Principal, John has led the College to new heights with his love for, and knowledge of, education in the Lasallian tradition with St Michael’s continuing to demonstrate the underlying philosophy of education which we trace back to St John Baptist de La Salle. Under John’s inspiring leadership, St Michael’s has become a Lasallian lighthouse school with an outstanding reputation for excellence.

Held in high esteem by Br David Hawke, Brother Visitor, the Lasallian Mission Council and the De La Salle Brothers for his personal qualities and his professional expertise, John is a valued member of the Gerard Rummery Institute Committee, the District Chapter Steering Committee, and a presenter in the Lasallian formation program Together for Mission.

John Foley’s time as Principal is marked by many outstanding achievements, in particular working with the Board on changes to the governance structure, funding arrangements and College land purchase; the $12.7m Lasallian Education Centre, modelled on a contemporary university design and including flexible learning spaces and a café; the $6.5m innovative and exciting building project on the Beverley Campus, opened early in 2021; the introduction of the College Learning Management System (SEQTA); the enrolment of a full Year 7 cohort at the Henley Campus in 2019; primary coeducation in Reception from the commencement of 2021; the development of the current Vision Statement (Community, Challenge, Choice); marked improvement in academic achievement including SACE results; enrolment growth: and the successful navigation of Covid to mention just a few of a lengthy list of achievements.

John’s departure from St Michael’s at the end of the year presents the College, and the Board in particular, with an exciting challenge – that of the selection of a new Principal. The College community can be assured that the Board will be very proactive in ensuring that the process is completed as expeditiously as possible, in a manner designed to ensure that we appoint another outstanding Principal to lead the College into this exciting next chapter of the College’s story. I have no doubt that the position of Principal of St Michael’s College will attract exceptional candidates.

The Board is committed to ensuring that the delivery of quality education at the College and our strong Lasallian tradition will continue to grow with the appointment of our next Principal so that St Michael’s will continue to be one of the leading Catholic schools in Adelaide.

As this process may take time, and the commencement date of the new Principal may not be until well into the new year, the Board has appointed Damian Patton, Deputy Principal, an experienced educational leader, to the position of Acting Principal for Term 1, 2022. Damian will also work with John for Term 4, 2021, to ensure a smooth transition into 2022.

John has shared with me that he will “always treasure the experiences and wonderful opportunities” that the College has afforded him, and that he will, “miss St Michael’s College deeply, always holding it close”. I know this is particularly true of the many strong relationships John has built with staff, students, families and the wider College community during his time at the College.

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SIGNIFICANT APPOINTMENTS In turn, our community will miss him deeply and in so many ways … and our memories will always be a tribute to his relational style of leadership.

On behalf of the College Board, our teachers and staff, and the whole College community, I express our deep appreciation to John Foley for all that he has contributed to St Michael’s and know that many will take the opportunity next term to express their gratitude and wish our exceptional leader well in the future.

We also thank John’s wife, Alison, and children, Emma, Hannah and Wil, for their shared long-term commitment to the College throughout his years of leadership at St Michael’s College.

Fortunately, John will not be lost to Catholic Education in South Australia and will be taking up a position in 2022 that will be announced through CESA shortly.

Principal O'Connor Catholic College Armidale Author: Chris Smith, Director of Schools It is with great pleasure that I announce the appointment of Regina Menz to the position of School Performance Leader at the Catholic Schools Office commencing in January 2022. As we continue our system performance improvement, Regina will have particular responsibility for the leadership of the CSO Mission and Learning Team in collaboration with the other School Performance Leaders.

Regina is an experienced educator with over 25 years of experience across a range of educational settings. She has worked in government, independent and Catholic systemic schools in NSW, Victoria and the Northern Territory.

Currently, Regina is the principal of O’Connor Catholic College and has led school improvement in the College since 2017. Prior to this, Regina was an Education Officer at the Catholic Schools Office supporting principals in their leadership of curriculum and pedagogy.

Regina previously held the positions of science teacher, science coordinator and teaching and learning coordinator at O’Connor Catholic College. Regina’s academic qualifications include a Bachelor of Education (Secondary Science), Charles Sturt University; Master of Educational Studies, Northern Territory University; and a Graduate Certificate in Theology, University of Newcastle. She worked with NSW BOSTES (now NESA) on developing the new HSC syllabuses for the Australian Curriculum and was a member of the NSW BOSTES (now NESA) Curriculum Committee for Senior Science. Regina has been a member of the Catholic Secondary Schools Association and is currently the Chair of the Armidale Diocesan School Principals’ Association.

The appointment of a School Performance Leader is a significant one in the life cycle of a system of schools because of its impact on the faith and learning outcomes of the students. Regina is a faith-filled and committed leader who has a strong commitment to the mission of the Church. She is an active member of the Cathedral parish and serves on the parish council. She articulates a clear vision for evidence-proven learning and teaching practices that have enhanced our Catholic Professional Learning Community. Regina has led O’Connor through a positive change process, and her expertise is often sought by other dioceses.

We extend our thanks to Regina for accepting this role, and I know you will join me in supporting her as she assists us in the next stage of school and system improvement. The Catholic Schools Office will work in partnership with Father Roel and the school community to begin recruitment for a new principal at O’Connor Catholic College Armidale.

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SIGNIFICANT APPOINTMENTS Principalship Balgo Hills Author: Barry Ennis, Current Principal, Balgo Hills On behalf of the Executive Director of Catholic Education, Dr Debra Sayce, I would like to announce that Todd Flanagan has been appointed as Principal at Luurnpa Catholic School, Balgo Hills. Todd will take up his duties from the beginning of Term Two, 2022.

In Tern One, Mr Tom Vidot has been appointed as Acting Principal. I would like to thank Tom for his generosity in taking on this responsibility, once again.

Todd comes to our school community from Yiyili Aboriginal Community School, Halls Creek, where he has been Principal during 2021. From 20172019, Todd was a Principal at Parnngurr Remote Community School, Great Western Desert.

Following his appointment as an Assistant Principal at both St Benedict’s School, Applecross (1993), and Trinity College, Perth (1999), Todd has been appointed as a Principal internationally at Yew Chung International School, Hong Kong, (2001); Emirates National School, Abu Dhabi, (2006); Western International School/ Zhuhai International School, Shanghai, (2007); and Sabis Sun International School, Azerbaijan, (2019).

We congratulate Todd on his appointment and look forward to working with him in our school and community.

Principal St Bede’s College, Mentone Author: Anthony Brinkley, Board Chair - St Bede's College, Mentone After an extensive selection process, the College Board, with the approval of Br David Hawke, De La Salle Provincial, is very pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Deborah Frizza as the next Principal of St Bede’s College, commencing Term One of 2022. Deborah will be the first female Principal of St Bede’s College, and our second lay Principal.

Deborah leaves Emmaus College, where she is currently the Executive Director – Strategic Outcomes. Prior to this, Deborah was in senior educational leadership roles in the independent, government and the Catholic sectors, including seven years as Deputy Principal of Mentone Grammar.

Deborah brings over 30 years’ experience in teaching and educational leadership to the role and is delighted to take on the critical role of Principal for our College. She has brought a modern and global view to secondary education, built on foundations of trust, communication, evidence and the modelling of Catholic values. In Deborah’s application she stated: “I truly believe that the key to developing a culture of continuous improvement is to provide an environment in which staff, students, alumni and parents alike feel valued and empowered to make suggestions and express their views”.

Deborah’s style of collaborative leadership and passion for providing a future focused faith-based education, has been inspired by her own faith, a strong belief in the holistic values of a Catholic education and an appreciation of the educational aspirations of families as commonly expressed in each of the educational sectors. Her strong personal educational philosophy centres on the development and success of the staff and students within her care.

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SIGNIFICANT APPOINTMENTS These are exciting times for St Bede’s College, as an amalgamated two-campus school at Bentleigh East and Mentone. Deborah will work closely with John Finn over coming months to assure a smooth transition occurs for St Bede's College students, staff and parents as we move to a new Principal.

We look forward also to opportunities, both formal and informal, in the coming months to acknowledge and thank John for being an outstanding leader and steward of St Bede’s College during his time as Principal.

We will provide a further update during the year on Deborah’s transition to St Bede’s College Principal. In the meantime, the Board wishes to thank the Lasallian Mission Council, Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools, St Bede’s College staff and all involved in providing input to the appointment process.

Principal De La Salle College, Revesby Heights Author: Tony Farley, Executive Director of Sydney Catholic Schools After a rigorous interview and selection process, I am pleased to announce, along with Fr Salas Muttathukattil, Parish Priest of St Patrick's Revesby Heights and St Christopher's Panania, the appointment of Michael Hollis as the Principal of De La Salle College Revesby Heights, beginning at the start of Term 1, 2022.

Michael is currently the 7-10 Principal of All Saints Catholic College Liverpool where he has demonstrated a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of young people. He has demonstrated an understanding of the importance of a school wide professional learning culture to ensure current teaching and learning practices underpin initiatives to drive and improve student growth.

Michael is a gifted educator, an innovative thinker and a committed, faith-filled leader. He is excited to be continuing to lead De La Salle College as a thriving Catholic community which is true to an education with, by and through God as leader.

This is an energising time for the students, staff and community of De La Salle College Revesby Heights and we congratulate Michael on this significant appointment.

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SIGNIFICANT APPOINTMENTS Appointment of ACU Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor Author: The Most Reverend Mark Coleridge, President of Corporation Dear Members, I am delighted to announce the appointment of The Hon Justice Martin Daubney AM and Ms. Virginia Bourke to the positions of Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor of Australian Catholic University.

Justice Daubney will be ACU's fifth Chancellor.

Justice Daubney is well known in the Australian legal community. Following a career as a leading barrister, he was appointed to the Supreme Court of Queensland in 2007, and as president of the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal in 2017. Prior to his appointment to the bench, he had served for many years on the Council of the Bar Association of Queensland, including as vice-president in 2005 and president in 2006. Since his appointment as a judge, he has continued his wider service to the legal profession, both nationally and internationally. He has also occupied leadership positions in numerous Church, community and cultural organisations. Justice Daubney served on the Senate of the University of Queensland from 2010 to 2017, and as president of King's College Council since 2009.

In 2018 he was made a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the law, and to the judiciary, to education, and to the community.

He is also an Honorary Fellow of ACU. He will serve a term of five years starting 1 January 2022.

Mr Julien O'Connell AO will continue in his role as Acting Chancellor until 1 January 2022 when Justice Daubney takes up the role as Chancellor. He will then continue in his role as Pro-Chancellor until 30 June when Ms Bourke takes up her role as Pro-Chancellor on 1 July 2022 for a term of five years.

An active figure in the health and legal community in Melbourne, Ms Bourke brings to ACU tremendous experience of governance and community involvement: she is currently Chair of Mercy Health and of St. John Ambulance Victoria, and is a Director of St. John Ambulance Australia, Catholic Health Australia and Caritas Australia. Ms Bourke is a consultant with the national health industry group at Minter Ellison Lawyers and previously worked as General Counsel for the Institute of the Sisters of Mercy of Australia and Papua New Guinea and as Special Counsel in the Employment Law group at Minter Ellison Lawyers. She is also a member of the Boards Appointment Committee with the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne and an Advisory Board Member for the PM Glynn Institute ACU. I know you will join me in congratulating Justice Daubney and Ms. Bourke on their appointments.

I would also like to take this opportunity to especially thank Mr O'Connell for his long and dedicated service as ProChancellor and more recently for serving as Acting Chancellor.

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SIGNIFICANT APPOINTMENTS Central America-Panama – Appointment of the new Visitor Author: Lasalle.org The Brother Superior General has appointed Brother Manuel Antonio Orozco Calderón as Visitor of the District of Central America-Panama for a four-year term beginning December 30, 2021 and ending December 29, 2025. Brother Manuel will replace Brother Alberto Mairena Floripe, who has served two terms as Visitor.

Brother Manuel Antonio was born in Cartago, Costa Rica, on October 6, 1970. He holds a degree in Religious Sciences from the University Rafael Landívar, Guatemala and earned a diploma in Learning Disabilities and master’s degrees in Human Resources Administration, Nonverbal Behaviour and Detection of Deception at the Universidad del Valle de Guatemala. In addition, he holds a certification in Executive Coaching from INCAE-Nicaragua, as well as a bachelor’s degree in Educational Innovations from La Salle University in Costa Rica. He is an accountant by profession and an ideologist and co-founder of La Salle Technological University in Leon, Nicaragua.

Brother Manuel Antonio has carried out his ministry at the Santiago Indigenous Institute in Guatemala; in LeónNicaragua at the La Salle Polytechnic Institute and at the La Salle Technological University, where he is currently the Rector and Director of the Brothers’ Community. He was in charge of the Secretariat for the Lasallian Educational Mission of the District of Central America-Panama and is currently a member of the IALU Education Sub-Commission for the Central and South American sub-region, as well as a member of the Educational Mission Council and of the Council of Brothers of his District.

Appointment of Brother Rey Mejias as Coordinating Secretary of the Secretariat for Formation Author: Br. Jorge Gallardo de Alba, FSC - Vicar General Dear Lasallians, We are pleased to announce the appointment of Brother Rey Mejias as Coordinating Secretary of the Secretariat for Formation.

In addition to his personal qualities, Brother Rey brings to his new mission a long experience as a formator and administrator. As head of this Secretariat, he will continue the challenging work of institutional implementation of the new formation document "Lasallian Formation for Mission: the Pilgrim's Handbook", on which he is working on his doctoral thesis.

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SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS Rey is a Filipino Brother from the Lasallian East Asia District (LEAD) who has held administration and leadership positions in the areas of formation, vocation ministry, school and community administration in the Philippines and Hong Kong. To take on this responsibility, Rey leaves the leadership of the PARC Regional Novitiate. Brother Rey will assume his new position in September 2021, replacing Brother Robert "Bobby" Schaefer after five years of generous and creative service. On behalf of the Institute, we thank Brother "Bobby" for his leadership and performance in his work, and we welcome Brother Rey.

John Collins, Deacon – No “Half-Baked Priest” How might one offer service as a mature educated Christian in the Catholic Church of today? John Collins, an old Boy of De La Salle College, Malvern, has been appointed a deacon in the Diocese of Parramatta, in western Sydney, by Bishop Vincent Long, OFM Conv. John, married to Sandi, and with two sons Paul and Bede, discerned at a more mature stage of life, that this was a calling by God. At the ordination on 11 June 2021, the Bishop mentioned that the Parramatta Diocese is enriched by its deacons and is home to “one of the most diverse and dynamic groups of permanent deacons in Australia”.

John’s gifts, he said “as an academic, a teacher, a pastoral supervisor and a marriage counsellor have helped many”.

Christian ministries are increasingly (being) reimagined and revitalised, by way of relational maturity, mutuality, collaboration, and partnership.

The eldest of eight children, John hails from present-day Malvern East and completed his secondary schooling at De La Salle, graduating in 1973. Work and travel followed before teacher training at Christ College, a time with the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart and completing a Bachelor’s degree in Theology. Moving to Sydney, John gained a Master’s degree in Theology, and another Masters in Education (Pastoral Guidance). In the field of Catholic education, he had a kaleidoscopic career in pastoral education (Centrecare), research and social policy (the Bishops’ Conference), Catholic Enquiry Centre, and finally being awarded his PhD (ACU) in 2013.

John remembers the positive influence of Brothers Urban Murray, William Firman and Damien Harvey in terms of their integrity and inspiration. The sense of Christian vocation, initiated at home, grew with him: “I could not seem to shake it”, and became a practical life-trajectory of service to others.

In recent years and with his wide teaching experience, John was instructing fellow deacon-candidates at Parramatta.

This was coupled with his own formation led by Deacon Tony Hoban. There was a pastoral placement and mentoring with Fr. Ian McGinnity at North Rocks, Sydney. He also trains seminarians in pastoral ministry and supervises their placements.

John sees the culture of the youthful Parramatta Diocese, which he serves, as still forming. However, “the pattern is set with regard to radical inclusivity in terms of cultural backgrounds, expressions of faith and gender diversity”. As for the diaconate in a 21st-century Church, the practice (at least in Parramatta) is to look and serve beyond any one parish, as a minister of “the Word and Charity” to the whole diocese, and to form and support lay Christians as they go out to the wider world of business, the arts and politics. In the ‘permanent diaconate’ there is no notion of a preparation for priesthood, of being ‘half-baked’. John’s hugely broad experience and skills fit him for his new role in the western Sydney community.

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SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS Brothers recognise Dot Schwenke's 50 years of commitment in Affiliation Ceremony Author: Br Phillip Sheridan, De La Salle Brother On Saturday, 4th September, a very worthy lady was Affiliated with the De La Salle Brothers.

The Ceremony took place during a Eucharist, that was celebrated in the chapel of Southern Cross Catholic College, Scarborough, Queensland.

Dot was supported by her daughter, Jenny, son-in-law Jerry, some of their children, and a number of past colleagues, friends and Brothers.

Due to the COVID situation, Dot’s two sons, Steve, in Canberra and Fred, in Sydney, were unable to attend.

To truly understand and appreciate Dot, and her generous ability to work, and give to others, it is helpful to know about, and live in a country community, that fostered and developed her as a person.

“You can take the girl out of the country, but you cannot take the country out of the girl.”

In towns and districts across western Queensland, people “look-out for one another”. They ‘gang’ together in times of hardship, crisis and disasters.

It was in such an environment that Dot grew up, matured, married and started her family, before moving to Scarborough, in the 1960s, with three young children.

It was in this same country environment that Dot was widowed, following her husband’s tragic accident.

After this, she needed to leave behind scenes, memories, loving friends and a lifestyle that had shaped her life and her ability to relate to people.

Now started her struggle to put a roof over her and her family’s head.

In 1960s, when Dot first started working at De La Salle Junior College, she had a young family in transition. She was still struggling to get on her feet after Bruce’s death. Prior to this, the family had spent many years living with, and supported by Dot’s parents. Dot’s children, while they did not fully understand, at the time, Dot’s new job, at De La Salle Junior College, was to provide her and the family, with security and purpose for the future.

Coming to the Junior College, Dot met a group of Brothers who ran Christian schools, where the students were encouraged to discover and develop the God-given talents, with which they had been blessed.

Dot discovered that the Brothers looked at people, events, and places with ‘Eyes of Faith’, as spelled out in the scriptures – especially the teachings of the New Testament.

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SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS She immediately felt ‘at-home’ in that environment.

Here started a fifty-year association and working relationship for Dot, in the three schools, and the Brothers.

Before what is today known under such names as, ‘Partners’, ‘Association’, ‘Signum Fidei’, ‘Lasallian Mission’, Dot took on all that these names signify, today. She has been a constant, for over FIFTY years, with Brothers, teachers, parents, students, parish folk, and the wider community.

Every day, when Dot walked Steve, Jenny and Fred to school, after leaving Jenny and Fred, at the Parish Primary School, having reached De La Salle Junior College, with Steve, she would stay on, to do “any spare jobs”, that the Brothers might have wanted done.

Before recording the variety of tasks that Dot undertook, it needs to be said that nothing matches the supportive care, friendship, loyalty, love for students, and the team work to make things “tick over”, in a school setting. These qualities are school builders, that cannot be weighed or measured or easily explained.

The Brothers who have known her can still hear Dot saying, “Ah Yeah, I can do that ...”, when asked to take control of some situation. Another attitude that Dot's regularly displayed is: “You never know, if you don't try.”

It was a job that she ‘grew into’, over the years, as she discovered that she had a natural talent, for so many things, that she had not been trained to do. The Brothers loved the willing way she took on a multitude of school activities, that were part and parcel of daily school routine.

The Brothers used to call Dot ‘Girl Friday’, as she worked, at the same time, in roles ranging from being Principal's Assistant, Librarian, and Canteen Manager, to list a few.

Through the fifty years, certain jobs ceased, but the soul of the contribution continued and grew.

While being so committed to the Brothers and Lasallian Education, Dot was always a mother, actively engaged in the support of her family. She was always conscious of their importance. Dot’s whole family, Steve, Jenny and Fred, supporting her commitment and dedication, spent numerous weekends and school holidays at the college, working with her. They spent many weeks putting together hundreds of copies, each year, of the successive School Yearbooks, using old duplicators and stencils. They spent holidays doing things like cleaning and tidying, so that Dot would have everything in place, for the re-commencement of successive new school terms.

Whenever there was an extra-curricular event at school, Dot would involve her children, as a means of ‘child-care’, as well as passing on the attitudes and example she had received, when their age. Dot and her family became part of every event, with the help they gave her. Her children, to this day, recount these as very happy experiences. As they comment, “We just thought that was what people did.”

Their memories of the 70’s, as they were also students at the college, were about Dot’s engagement and commitment with the College.

Through her ever-increasing involvement and commitment, Dot grew in a sense of meaning, which her family, friends and Brothers consider she carries to this day.

Dot’s family consider that her dedication and commitment to the schools, with such an enthusiastic and such a positive attitude, helped her heal and recover from the death of their father, at least to some extent at least.

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SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS Through all their time as children, their memories of the early 1970’s was all about De La Salle Junior College. They say, “In return we got a lot back from the school.”

They say that their memories of the schools are of the positive and loving culture, they saw, through their mother.

Throughout fifty years of working for ‘The Brothers’, at De La Salle Junior College, De La Salle College and now Southern Cross Catholic College, the ‘constant’ has been the dedication and commitment to the ministry of the De La Salle Brothers and Lasallian Education, that Dot has demonstrated. These qualities have been complemented by the joy and sense of purpose it has bought to Dot’s life and, as she would say, “that of my family”.

Dot has always made herself available for any student who needed a little extra support, attention, and TLC. This has been one of many factors that bought much satisfaction to young people, as well as the greatest joy, to herself. At the same time, keeping some of them out of strife was a constant effort.

Dot was significant in setting up the De La Salle Junior College Library, Clothing Pool, testing individual reading ages, spelling levels, listening to individual student oral reading, even coaching footy teams. So versatile was she, that she took on teachers’ aide duties, and class management assistance.

One of Dot’s great loves, throughout her commitment to the Brothers and Lasallian education, in all the Colleges, has been sport. Some of her favourite stories relate to her commitment to ‘B’-side footy teams that she coached. She was able to support and encourage teams facing certain defeat, at the hands of a much stronger side.

She kept their heads up, and motivated then to play their best, to the end of the game. She was so proud of them.

Down the fifty years, certain jobs ceased, but the soul of the contribution continued and grew. Dot made many lifelong friends working at the colleges, and her family attest that she treasures each one of them. Dot’s family comment: “I think working at the school has given Mum so much, at a time when she herself needed it most.”

Today, Steve, Jenny and Fred have moved on to their own lives and careers. They attribute their success to the excellent upbringing, education and life skills they learned, while being involved with their Mother’s commitment to the schools.

They all will attest that, since leaving home, every time they speak to their mother, she will tell them about her latest project in helping or working with some student.

Dot loves to work with what she perceives as disadvantaged kids. This started way back in the early 70’s when she used to draft “tuck-shop-boys”, to give certain kids a level of responsibility and self-importance.

In more recent years Dot’s sense of purpose continued, as she worked in the Special Needs area of Southern Cross Catholic College, as a teacher’s aide. In this area, she has loved working with the Asian students. In particular, she helped them to assimilate and keep up with the expectations of their teachers.

Dot will also say that she has learned much, as much from the students, as from the teachers.

We all give thanks to Dot, for who she is, and we all give thanks to God, for Dot.

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SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS O'Connor old boy ordained a Priest Author: Damian Roff Despite, level 4 COVID restrictions, Damien Locke, class of 1994, at O'Connor, received the sacraments of Holy Orders and was ordained a priest in the Catholic Church. The ordination was not open to the public due to the restrictions. However, the ordination ceremony could be viewed online.

Interestingly Bishop Kennedy who presided over the sacrament was celebrating the anniversary of his own ordination.

In COVID free times in 2018, when he ordained 16 priests, Pope Francis reflected upon the importance and demands of a priestly vocation.

He urged them “not get tired of being merciful. Think of your sins, your miseries that Jesus forgives. Be merciful.” It is “through your ministry the spiritual sacrifice of the faithful is made perfect,” he noted, “because it is joined to the sacrifice of Christ, which for your hands, in the name of the whole Church, is offered bloodlessly on the altar in the celebration of the Holy Mysteries.” He pointed out to the 16 men that in their priestly ministries they will be participants “in the mission of Christ, the only Master,” and advised them to read and meditate tirelessly on the Word of God “to teach what you have learned in faith, to live what you have taught.” He continued ; “[May] your teaching, joy and support to the faithful of Christ be the fragrance of your life,” he continued, “that with word and example you can build the House of God which is the Church.” and “Always have before your eyes the example of the Good Shepherd, who did not come to be served, but to serve and to seek and save what was lost,” We pray for Father Damien, Bishop Kennedy and for all priests in their lives that they are faithful servants in the mission of God. “Gracious and loving God, we thank you for the gift of our priests. Through them, we experience your presence in the sacraments. Help our priests to be strong in their vocation. Set their souls on fire with love for your people. Grant them the wisdom, understanding, and strength they need to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Inspire them with the vision of your Kingdom. Give them the words they need to spread the Gospel. Allow them to experience joy in their ministry.

Help them to become instruments of your divine grace. We ask this through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns as our Eternal Priest.”

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LASALLIANS WORLDWIDE Let’s plant seeds to sow the future! Global citizenship education Do you want to engage children, girls and youth in solidarity activities and global citizenship issues?

Would you like to have materials to bring new generations closer to sustainable development and the United Nations 2030 Agenda?

If so, join the campaign promoted by a network of Lasallian, Claretian and Marist organizations!

This year's campaign aims to raise awareness on two of the most urgent problems facing our planet: climate change and the excessive use of highly polluting and resource-limited fossil fuels. It focuses on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) #7: Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all, and SDG# 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

Posters, brochures, videos and teaching materials, designed for each educational level, are available for you in 5 languages! For the planet and all its inhabitants: let's sow the future!

For further information please contact Laura Ballerini, Director of Communication: lballerini@lasalle.org.

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LASALLIANS WORLDWIDE New opportunities for young people in the Democratic Republic of Congo With a vocational centre, La Salle Foundation (Lasallian Secretariat for Solidarity and Development) help young people in Kinshasa enter the world of catering and hotel management. In 2020, it completed the construction of Atelier Ho.Re. Ca. (Hotellerie, Restaurant & Catering), inside the Lasallian school “College Saint Georges” in Kinshasa.

La Salle Foundation constructed this new building with the best equipment to start professional training courses in catering and hotel management.

In a country where 7 million children between the ages of 5 and 17 do not go to school [UNICEF], La Salle is committed to providing new educational opportunities for the most disadvantaged young people, enabling them to enter the world of work and train for their future.

La Salle Vietnam In Vietnam, La Salle serves more than 2,000 children and young people daily, thanks to the presence of three schools, vocational centres and residences for students.

La Salle is a school for everybody. That is why our Institute set up educational centres in villages where there are no other nearby schools.

La Salle helps families with scholarships, promotes the inclusion of marginalized ethnic minorities, and welcomes those who otherwise are excluded from education.

TRUONG VINH KY SCHOOL IN PLEIKU is located in the central highlands of Vietnam, in the district of Pleiku. This school has 688 students (90 of whom are from minority groups) in primary and junior secondary school.

Thanks to the presence of a dormitory, more than half of the pupils can spend the week on campus, without having to face long daily trips. In order to continue to accompany our students on their journey, the La Salle Foundation (Lasallian Secretariat for Solidarity and Development in Rome) is working to build a high school, so as to ensure that our pupils have the full cycle of education.

TRUONG VINH KY JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL IN DAK MIL is a Junior Secondary School. This is the first level of a secondary school (grade 6-12).

It was opened in August 2018. The school is located a rural area where there were few schools. The children have had to travel many kilometres every day with the result that many dropped out of school. Thanks to its dormitory, the school allows students from nearby villages to live on campus, increasing the school attendance to 500 students of whom 57 come from minority groups. To allow our students to complete their studies and access tertiary education, the construction of a high school is needed.

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LASALLIANS WORLDWIDE SAN TAN HUNG CHARITY SCHOOL IN HO CHI MIN CITY For 21 years, this school has been offering free education to children and young people from the most vulnerable sections of the population. The families of these pupils are mostly commuters, arriving daily in the capital from the nearby suburbs for precarious day jobs. Often the Brothers would see their children on the streets, selling lottery tickets or rummaging through garbage, and decided to establish a school for them. Today, each of the school's 130 students is covered by a full scholarship.

NON-FORMAL EDUCATION CENTERS Dalat Educational and Vocational Centre: In the city of Dalat there is a non-formal education centre that caters to 156 young people in the area with vocational courses. In fact, this centre offers a sewing program, with an emphasis on silk processing, as well as a greenhouse farming program with modern micro-growing techniques in pots and drip irrigation.

Nguyen Khuyen Centre for Disabilities: this is a vocational training centre, aimed at 10 people with motor and/or cognitive disabilities. The centre has been active since the time of nationalization.

From our students My name is Kim; I attend fifth grade at La San Tan Hung Charity School a Ho Chi Min City. I have three siblings. My parents work as bricklayers but are sometimes unemployed. I like to go to school to learn, get to know and become a good person to help society in the future. I would like to thank the Brothers, teachers and generous donors for helping me to have many happy days at school.

My name is Dinh La Thy. I attend class 4 at Truong Vinh Ky a Pleiku. I have no father, it's just me and my mother.

Although my family is poor, my mother works hard so that I can study, like many other friends' families. My dream is to become a doctor to help the poor.

I will study hard to fulfil my dream.

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SAFEGUARDING De La Salle audit shows ‘particularly impressive’ result Author: Australian Catholic Safeguarding Australian Catholic Safeguarding Ltd (ACSL) has today published the safeguarding audit report of the De La Salle Brothers District of Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan and Papua New Guinea.

The audit found that the De La Salle Brothers (DLSB) have implemented 91 per cent of the indicators relevant to their operations under the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards, a national framework for the protection and safety of children in Catholic organisations.

ACSL Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ursula Stephens, said that this is a particularly impressive result for a religious institute with complex and diverse ministries across Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan and Papua New Guinea.

“Through our audit procedures, which covered a sample of ministries across four countries and included interviews with 20 Brothers, we found a strong commitment to the safeguarding of children and adults at risk.”

“This was evident through the fact that key safeguarding documents have been distributed to all ministries, translated into local languages, and are required to be acknowledged and signed by all Brothers, staff and volunteers. Crucially, there is oversight of safeguarding activities across the four countries through the work of a dedicated safeguarding officer and safeguarding committee.”

“Within Australia, DLSB have governance over primary and secondary schools as well as the charity yourtown, which operates a range of services for children and young people, including Kids Helpline, Australia's most prominent telephone and online counselling service for young people.”

“Given the Australian schools and yourtown are subject to existing regulation and external accreditation, we do not re-audit them under our framework. They were however required to provide declarations to us regarding the accreditation and audit processes that are in place and were subject to extensive interview by our audit team.”

“The recognition and community standing of these services is an indication of the commitment of DLSB to child safeguarding. Feedback on safeguarding practices is encouraged, monitored and any issues addressed.”

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SAFEGUARDING “We’ve also identified areas of improvement for DLSB and have provided tailored recommendations to strengthen child safeguarding practices throughout their operations.”

“For instance, despite the number of areas where DLSB are already implementing the Safeguarding Standards, they are yet to develop a formal Safeguarding Implementation Plan that is documented and actionable.

From here, DLSB have committed to using the findings and recommendations of the report to create a Safeguarding Implementation Plan, which will include monitoring and self-audit processes,” Dr Stephens said.

Message from Br Visitor: Child Protection Week

You might also be interested in: •

Safety booklet encourages children's participation in Church life

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TOGETHER AND

BY ASSOCIATION BEING LASALLIAN: A Label? An Identity? A Gift?

Author: Br Gary Wilson, De La Salle Brother A Brief Personal Perspective Many being drawn together "Oh, I just thought I'd give teaching a go". Sometimes you hear it said by someone in a Lasallian institution. At other times, people could see teaching or yourtown work as the role-modelling of an important person in their own schooling or family. Personally, I found taking on teaching, as a Brother, was due to the commitment of two of my Brother-teachers. It was not their deep religious spirit as such, but their genuine humaneness, and interest in me as a person. The fascination with "Lasallian" grew...

Does one just "fall in by Chance" to working in a Lasallian school or yourtown? perhaps Fate? Someone may have had a strong sense of "making a difference" ...a "passion", maybe vague or nameless, to offer what one has to young people?

What opens up an engaging career which grows into "being a Lasallian"?

Obviously, there are many pathways that draw people into a Lasallian enterprise.

What's Common with Other Educators?

Finding causes for a course of action is often unreflective at first. In our current global world, what is in the zeitgeist? (how's your German?) Woke movements make impact today - indigenous rights (vs. discrimination or racism), women's rights (vs. violence), to name two. Social media for some. Our world values diversity, "human rights", freedom, children's safety, compassion, respect, education these seem universal.

Lasallians share much with other people in the helping professions•

Developing a strong self-belief that I have a service to offer / a gift to give, because I have been gifted - in talents, in my family, in my community.

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Working with people in communities which have somethings in common and offer strength & identity.

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Developing, critically, relationships - with attitudes of great respect / dignity for the other.

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Demanding good communication in the relevant language of the profession or group.

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Having a desire to serve, which might to described as a 'mission' personal or corporate.

Marg Marriott, Religious Education Co-ordinator at De La Salle College, Revesby Heights speaks of her "ministry of education" which, as a committed Christian, could be the stance of many Catholic teachers. She talks about Care, a personal Call to Respond, Conformity with Christ, and Collaboration...and these features she identifies, as well, as "Lasallian". These become 'Lasallian' because she sees them as lived by her in her 'ministry'.

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TOGETHER AND

BY ASSOCIATION Experience and Change Brothers are trained to live Christian values and grow in a "spirit" of faith and zeal in Christian schools especially for disadvantaged young people. They identify this work as distinctively Lasallian. However, the Lasallian "movement" - over 340 years - has seen huge changes in the workers (100 Brothers in 1719 when the Founder died) to 103,542 lay women and men, with 3238 Brothers today. For Lasallian Partners their lived experience, often in family life, offers enriched and wider perspectives.

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Continuity over time of a particular "spirit" and an in-house cause.

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A "spirit" that is confident, joyful and active that is sensed in Lasallian institutions today.

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A growth of 'Young Lasallians', groups that talk of "Faith, Community, Service".

How the Pattern Impacts Differently Partners and Brothers For the Brother, his Rule holds that behind John Baptist de La Salle stands the person of Christ, and the Spirit who inspired the "charism" (a technical word for a divine gift for a community) for the good work of "Christian and human education of youth". The understanding of 'Lasallian-ness' is a gift given by a pervading Spirit of God, first in Reims in 1680, and continuously energising the educational 'mission' until today. It is not a glorifying of the Founder, however creative and profound his human influence.

Christian believers see the Spirit of God working, working quietly, courteously, mysteriously on a global scale, as detailed too in their Scriptures. Not restricted, either, to a 'religious world', but interpenetrating the human, social, scientific activities of today as well. For those of other faiths or unbelievers, there may be a perception of the same hidden, mysterious working, that may be discerned, or at least observed in a Lasallian community.

The Rule of the Brothers puts great emphasis on Partners "who recognise and live" the spirit, who identify themselves as partners, without which the global mission today would not exist - at least not near as healthily. We all "share the same mission", we offer each other formation, we work in a strong spirit of "association". 'Partners' are mentioned in 24 articles in the Brothers' Rule, and 'association' of the two 10 times, not to note 'Lasallian Family" and 'shared mission'. It is very much a joint venture.

Robert Dempsey, Director of Mission at St. Michael's Adelaide picks up this sense of Lasallians 'associating, sharing in Lasallians having "a clear vision of our mission through profound writings, examination of Scripture". He sees specific Lasallian examples in

"a program called 'Beyond Borders' for refugee students to join our community providing educational opportunities for about fourteen Muslim students. We have fee reduction or remission for those members of the community who would struggle to pay fees making a quality education available to more students. Being Lasallian, we have a strong liturgical focus with weekly Mass, whole school Mass, daily prayer and Chapel services".

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TOGETHER AND

BY ASSOCIATION Grace Wrakia, National Lasallian Family Co-ordinator in PNG speaks of her Catholic family and schooling, and her search for her "path in life", trying teaching. She points to an almost mystical element which is concretely visible in disadvantaged youth, as well as other Lasallians:

"I found the Lasallian Family in my first year of teaching-Being a Lasallian, to me means finding God in the young people who are lost, hopeless, underprivileged, poor, outcast, sick, frightened, alone, abused, neglected, hungry and unhappy. Being Lasallian means I have a support network, I have a community, a 'family' who will walk with me and share this journey with me".

Marg Marriott also picks up on "especially the poor" of the Lasallian mission, equally Christian, and specifically and intentionally Lasallian:

"Concern and Compassion for 'the last, the lost and the least' - this requires a special love of those students most in need: spiritually, socially, academically or financially. As a Lasallian educator, I often walk alongside some of these students".

What Does It Mean for Me? If I have gained personally from interaction / working / serving in a Lasallian school or other work, how do I find meaning in this?

If I have made lasting impressions on younger people, why?

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Have I been given a gift?

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Do I experience a spirit, a sense of community, a togetherness - working with 'associates' for the good of young people?

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Is there a common pattern I begin to recognise, which is bigger than my smaller world of concerns and activity??

Where is the joy in the toil and action of my day? Where can I find meaning in my work? Is there an invitation to accept a gift?

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TOGETHER AND

BY ASSOCIATION What it means to be a true Lasallian! DLS Ashfield and Oakhill come together Author: Paul Forrester, Principal, De La Salle College Ashfield Each Friday the De La Salle College Ashfield holds an online liturgy for all members of our community and it has been a special way to stay connected with staff, students, parents and families at a time where we are unable to connect in our usual ways. Recently, we celebrated our liturgy with members of Oakhill College with whom we have developed a great relationship with over the course of the year.

It was an extremely special occasion to have two wonderful Lasallian communities come together in solidarity and community in support of our desire to remain connected with our Lasallian Sisters and Brothers throughout this difficult time. The video link illustrates the feeling of our students from both colleges about being part of a Lasallian community. There was no doubt as we gathered in the name of Jesus, that His presence was within and amongst us.

It was a powerful reminder that our shared faith binds us together with communities of believers across our city and indeed all over the world. Jesus’ proclamation which we shared in our liturgy that - “where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” is a reminder to us all that by connecting and communicating we continue to bring the spirit of God into our lives. If we can be mindful of this in all our interactions then we bring this spirit into the lives of all those we meet. What an amazing possibility! What an amazing privilege!

What it means to be a true Lasallian - Students from Ashfield and Oakhill

ALLAN DRUMMOND TRANSFORMING LIVES Author: Kerry Martin, De La Salle College, Malvern Allan Drummond (De La Salle Malvern class of 1959) believes in the power of words. The former teacher once wrote history books for his students and more recently spent several years teaching in South Sudan, where he encouraged his students to write about their experiences. Nowadays, he keeps up his love of writing through his publishing endeavours and via his popular Facebook page.

It was his interest in history that launched his career as a writer. “In the mid-90s, I was teaching Year 8 History and the English faculty decided that all students up to Year 10 should spend 10 minutes a day reading after lunch,” he said. “There wasn’t anything suited to young readers of history, so I decided to write something for them. I ended up writing four medieval biographies, which were a hit and Green Barrow Publishing was born. Over the years Green Barrow published more than 40 titles for the young adult market. “My best seller was the story of Mary Gilmore.”

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BY ASSOCIATION Drummond’s history books are enjoyed by teachers and students alike for their accessibility and human interest. His book on John Monash, earned high praise from the likes of football legend, Ron Barassi and former Prime Minister, John Howard, who said, “John Monash is a lively presentation, easy to read and a nice accessible tribute to a great Australian.”

When Drummond’s wife passed away in 2015, after 43 years of marriage, he was at a bit of a loose end.

Br Bill Firman (1961) asked him to join him in South Sudan as part of the Solidarity with South Sudan project, where he spent three years training new teachers.

“Being in South Sudan was an extraordinary privilege, and a life changing one,” he said. “So much poverty, so much suffering caused by civil war, tribalism and bad governance. However, there is so much optimism, resilience, generosity and gratitude.”

“Trainee teachers have to spend two years in Yambio, which means leaving their families for two years residential study.

Nearly half of the students are mothers and fathers themselves.”

“There are so many challenges to education with students having had their schooling interrupted by violence, losing many years in some cases.”

“I encouraged students to write of their own experiences,” he said. “One of them wrote at length about when he was a little boy, fleeing to Uganda with his family. His father disappeared on the way, presumed killed. Rebels intercepted their party and raped and murdered his mother in front of him.”

The power of his account was so moving. “It was a shock to read this account from a quiet, studious young man. He has since been selected as one of our graduates to complete further studies in Nairobi, after which it is expected that he will take up a teaching position at Solidarity Teacher Training College, Yambio.”

“None of our students in South Sudan are far removed from tragedy but, somehow, they remain resilient, optimistic and extremely grateful. Solidarity Teachers College is a powerful model of what South Sudan should be, with students from a variety of tribes, who might otherwise be at war, learning and living together in harmony.”

It was his historical bent that led him to compare the situation in South Sudan with that faced by Saint John Baptist de La Salle. “South Sudan is eerily reminiscent of France in the days of Saint John Baptist de La Salle - like 17th century France, it faces similar levels of poverty and a lack of trained teachers and schools.”

Allan Drummond said he was constantly aware of the dangers of living in the war-ravaged country. “In Living in South Sudan, there was the constant threat of danger and despite the barbed wire and high walls, terrible things happened.

One nun was raped and another murdered shortly before I arrived.”

Grounded in Melbourne by COVID-19, Drummond is currently waiting for a visa to be able to travel to Papua New Guinea to work alongside the Brothers in Mount Hagen. In the meantime, he is converting some of his more popular titles such as Joan of Arc, Richard the Lionheart and Charlemagne into eBooks.

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