In This Issue

From The President

Dear Lasallian Family, Last week I finally did something I’ve wanted to do for the past four years. I was an adult leader on a Kairos Retreat. This is likely one of the most important things I have done as President of De La Salle. Kairos is not your traditional retreat program. The word, Kairos, is Greek and means “the opportune time” and has been adapted to mean “God’s time.” When the students, mostly seniors, with a smattering of juniors, entered the Columbiere Retreat Center, they handed over their cell phones, watches, and other electronic devices. No clocks were visible in any room. So what makes Kairos so special? First, it’s the WHO. Students represent every possible group at De La Salle. And everyone, adults and kids, are asked to refrain from being judgmental and to accept each participant as he is. These students bring with them the ups of their lives, and even more so, the downs of their lives: loss, disappointment, hurt, fear, rejection, depression, and loneliness. Another thing which makes Kairos so special is the WHAT. The 47 students were divided into six small groups with a student and an adult leader. It is in these groups that most of the work takes place. Students share their deepest joys and sorrows. They listen. They laugh. They hug. They cry. They love. They comfort. They challenge. And they support each other. Ultimately, they recognize the presence of God in their lives. They become grateful for those who have touched them: parents, siblings, relatives, and friends. Lastly, how Kairos concludes is another special feature. Because it really doesn’t end. The fifty plus of us have shared in something unique which will last all of our lives. We continue to recognize God in our lives and will follow him in our actions and words. We see each other differently and accept each other as unique persons created in the image and likeness of God. We have become men others can lean on. We are able to love each other a bit more. And we will pass on to others what we have experienced and learned. In a positive sense, we have become a “Band of Brothers.” Alas, it is time for me to say “Auf Wiedersehen,” which doesn’t translate as “good-bye” but as “until we meet again.” I thank you for a wonderful four years. And I specially thank the students of De La Salle, who each day remind me of God’s presence and show me God’s friendship. Sincerely,

Brother Thomas Lackey FSC President