I. Charism - La Salle.org

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VI. EIGHT TESTIMONIES FROM LASALLIANS
and Christian education - even with our diverse vocations
(Brothers and Laypersons). Our diversity will be unified by what
each one would bring to the mission and by how one would contribute
to the enhancement of the charism either through catechesis,
apostolic organizations, extra-curricular activities and administrative
positions.
The understanding of the Lasallian charism in our District will very
much be strengthened by the realization that whether a Brother or
Layperson, God is mysteriously working in through and for us.
without our knowing but at the same time with our cooperation.
This working together as we develop our charism will expose us to
certain essential values that will influence little by little our attitudes,
aspirations and decisions. That way we will be able to see a
change in the meaning of our work as educators and see the hand
of God in that work.
Present Reality.
I said earlier that the late Joan Haan had planted the seed in the
District. This has not been easy as I say it. The five countries of the
District represent a variety of people. cultures, traditions and religions.
The reception, acceptance and understanding of a Lasallian
mission and charism in the District were not automatic, as the
laypeople had varying expectations. The Brothers also resisted any
change to their status.
The initial relationship between the Brothers and Laypersons was
Employer-Employee (some aspect of this is still persistent). The
perspective on human and economic resources was a real challenge
to my predecessor and myself as the Laypeople expected an
improvement in their economic level with the launching of formation
into the Lasallian mission and charism.