Messages from CIL

To see the  messages from the Brothers to the Lay and from the Lay to the Brothers please visit the DENA Facebook page or click on the link below.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=9992&id=100001812374687&l=f4293c6bdc

Message of Hope

Our Message of Hope

CIL 2010:  Understanding and Living Association for Lasallian Mission Today

Dear Lasallians: Brothers and all who serve the Lasallian Mission,

Grateful and Challenged by a New Frontier

In a spirit of gratitude to our Lasallian ancestors and pride for our Lasallian Heritage, we Lasallians together (locally) and by association (globally) are called to see, to listen, to feel, and to proclaim.  When we are true to the Lasallian educational mission to the poor, we are communities of prophetic witnesses and transformation agents.

The CIL program, “Understanding and Living Association for Lasallian Mission Today”, gathered seventy-seven Brother and Lay participants from 8 to 26 November 2010 and exposed us to the richness of Association in Lasallian history.  We have shared our experiences of Association and reflected upon Circular 461 “Associated for the Lasallian Mission… an act of HOPE.” 

We came together with anxiety, doubt, and fear about the future.  But we began to see ourselves not at a crossroads but at a new frontier.  We do not have a single choice to make, but a great unknown full of possibility which is both fearful and awesome.  

Two key ideas greatly influenced us.  First, our Founder, Saint John Baptist de La Salle, and the first Brothers considered the moment of entry into the community as the moment of consecration.  Second, Association finds its meaning in the “for”, i.e.  Association is for the educational service to the poor and disadvantaged. 

After these days of reflection about our call "together and by association" we want to share with you the richness of what we have lived and prayed, to encourage you to dig a little deeper into the rich personality of the Founder, his work, his writings, and how they are a call by God to live the Mission.

Through our Vocation

We are a gathering of people who have come from diverse faith and community experiences.  We are people on a journey in response to a call by God, in search of a better world just as La Salle was.  We realize that through education we can participate in creating the kingdom of God on earth.  To this call, we respond by associating for mission.  We want our communities to respond creatively to the realities and needs of our different environments.

A Welcoming Diversity

Two symbols spoke to us:  God’s ever expanding tent which has room for all and the promise of the rainbow which intimates that all are one in a beautiful diverse world.  These symbols evoked in us a sense of hope, a confidence that this is God’s work, and a commitment to act together and by association to build the kingdom.

Essential for New Life:  Tradition, Transition, and Transformation

Our discussion led us to identify three components to our current experience of Lasallian Association:  Tradition, Transition, and Transformation.  In a work of art, we represent our experience as tradition (our roots), transition (the seed ready to sprout), and transformation (a new plant with branches reaching for the sky which will eventually bear great fruit).  It may serve as an “icon” to aid us in reflecting about our personal experience of being associated for mission as well as the experience of association in our regions, districts, cities, and individual ministries.

In our tradition, we understand that the first Lasallian community composed of Saint John Baptist de La Salle and the early Brothers, “together and by association”, are our main point of reference and inspiration because based on their faith and their radical commitment the mission was born: to give a Human and Christian education to young people, especially the poor.

We draw upon our past in which three heroic generations of Brothers first, simply worked together, second, created a fragile community which was supportive and formative and, third, developed the necessary structures to sustain the mission for over 300 years.

Transition has been an ever present characteristic of our history.  De La Salle and the early Brothers responded creatively to crisis after crisis.  The Institute has responded similarly to the crises of history.  During times of crisis, we need community discernment: “We must see with eyes wide open and feet firmly set on the ground, but with the heart also full of the Gospel and full of God.” (Monsignor Oscar Romero, 27 August 1978) 

Today we are experiencing another momentous challenge which calls for another transformation.  We, as Lasallians, are in a moment of grace in which we are challenged to transform our traditions through great personal and communal effort under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and our Lasallian history.  Each of us must let go of something and contribute something to the transformation.  We discover those things through observation, reflection, and action.  We affirm the vision of De La Salle and the founding Brothers; the need for the Lasallian mission of education, especially of the poor, is very great.  Thus the need for every Lasallian is great.

We Look to the Future with Hope

We are keenly aware that certain parts of the Lasallian World are in need of particular support.  This includes areas where governments, cultures, gender roles, and religious traditions do not provide a supportive environment for Lasallian Association.  Association is for the entire Lasallian World, and so, we invite all to participate and support one another.  As we experienced in these three weeks, our international association can provide the support needed to overcome these challenges.

We must be prophets who transform the present, who "together and by association" see with imagination and creativity a future that has never existed before.  Our way of being knows no limits except those of the Lasallian charism, a charism that drives us to transform the world through various Lasallian educational works.  These works respond creatively to our reality. We must be faithful to Gospel values, true to human relationships, see the world through the eyes of young people today, and take advantage of the technological advances which promote the exchange of experiences and knowledge in order to improve society.

We Commit to Associate for Mission

We commit to promote a Lasallian mission that addresses the needs of the poor and marginalized even beyond the school, to explore new understandings of vocation, and to take steps appropriate to our local circumstances.  We commit to formation, accompaniment, and association for the mission!

During this period of movement from transition to transformation, we associate for mission by gathering locally and with other ministries (physically or electronically) to:

·       Pray and share faith

·       Socialize

·       Celebrate

·       Grow in our commitment

·       Share our history, traditions, and cultural diversity

·       Study / Work to improve our ministries to better adapt to the needs of students

·       Tell the Lasallian story and our stories of being Lasallian

·       Accompany one another into the Lasallian tradition in open communities

·       Discuss, discern, and identify mission priorities

·       Develop creative initiatives of community life and ministries which respond to the new needs of the poor

These and other formation activities are ultimately in the service of the Lasallian Mission of Education of the young, especially the poor. 

Conclusion

We want to accompany those already journeying in the Mission, to fan the flickering flame of those who are questioning, and in every work, place, action and environment to be a sign of hope. We move forward, joining efforts, enthusiasm, and excitement.

We are aware of the great “co-responsibility” entrusted to us to be the “heart, memory and guarantor” of the Lasallian charism, but we have De La Salle’s assurance that as St. Paul says, "The Lord who has begun the work, will see it to its successful completion." (Philippians 1:6)

Live, Jesus, in our Hearts.  Forever!

CIL Part 2

CIL 2010 UNDERSTANDING AND LIVING LASALLIAN ASSOCIATION TODAY

PART 2:  Gathering and Deliberations of the De La Salle Brothers

We began the new week with a prayerful reminder of what we had experienced here at CIL for the past three weeks with the presence and participation, energy and spirit of our Lasallian partners who have now returned to their home districts, ministries and families.

The task before us for the next two weeks is to reflect and build upon the experience of the past three and to focus on the depth of our vow of association for the sake of the Lasallian Mission.

In this morning session (in small groups) we were asked to review our individual vocational journeys and to present our vision and hopes for each of our Districts and to ascertain what our individual role might be in further this vision and these hopes.

Tomorrow we will begin to form “work” groups around specific perspectives and projects related to the association movement that may have an impact on our return to the Districts.

For the information of all I am including with this blog three important documents for reading and reflection.

·       The Statement or Declaration of the participants created and ratified at the end of the three week session entitled OUR MESSAGE OF HOPE.

·       A Message from the English Lay Partners to our Brothers on the occasion of CIL 2010.

·       A Message from the English Speaking CIL 2010 Brothers to our Lay Partners

These documents reflect the spirit and intensity of our CIL Lasallian Community over the three weeks of our Association.

Last Day At CIL For Our Lasallian Partners :(

CIL 2010: UNDERSTANDING AND LIVING LASALLIAN ASSOCIATION TODAY  … TIME TO DAY GOODBYE  (CON TE PARTIRO)

Today, Friday, November 26, 2010 marked the conclusion of the gathering of Lasallian Partners and Brothers in CIL 2010.

The important work of this final session was highlighted by the ratification of the collaborative declaration (statement) of the participants entitled OUR MESSAGE OF HOPE.  The message is addressed to all Lasallians who serve the mission throughout the world.  It is a hopeful and transformational document which each of the participants may use as the guidepost for advancing the movement of Association for Mission upon return to local districts and ministries.

Participants also reflected in group discussions on the overall CIL experience and each language group offered commendations as well as recommendations to the CIL program leadership. The overall shared experience of all of the participant groups no matter what country or district of origin was overwhelmingly positive and inspirational.

Our morning ended with a most moving shared tribute of appreciation and blessing from Partners to Brothers and from Brothers to Partners.  A powerful sense of unity in diversity (we are ONE LASALLE) has emerged from the three week experience and each participant will return energized and dedicated to being transformational agents for Association and the future of the Lasallian Mission.

We truly have been blessed by these days together!

CIL day number 14

CIL 2010:  DAY 14:  THE END IS NEAR

We began our day with a clear realization that the first and most prominent phase of our CIL Gathering:  Understanding and Living Lasallian Association Today will conclude tomorrow as our Lasallian lay partners prepare to return to their homes an home ministries.  The immanence of this departure was captured in a moving morning prayer as each participant gazed into the eyes of another and gave a greeting of association and respect.
 
The process of creating a unified declaration or statement as a collaborative effort of each of the three language groups was nearing completion as final comments, suggestions and group documents were submitted to the “writing committee” to prepare a final draft which will be the focus of our discussion on the final day tomorrow.
 
The afternoon session allowed participants to share information about planned individual, group or District projects that will be some of the action steps that participants will take to their home ministries and which will continue the process of energizing the movement of Lasallian Association for Mission.
 
All participants, but especially those of us from the USA, were surprised to see a huge turkey (cooked of course) in the middle of the dining hall as we entered this evening for dinner.  So we did celebrate Thanksgiving here in Rome and it was a joyous event.

Support for the Sapling

The Second International Symposium of Young Lasallians took place here in Rome back in 2006.  I was privileged to attend the Symposium.  At one of the closing ceremonies, we presented Brother Alvaro Rodriguez, Superior General of the De La Salle Christian Brothers, with a small tree to symbolize our time together and to thank him for his support.  It really wasn’t much of tree, kind of scraggly as I remember it, but Brother Alvaro accepted it with grace and we were all assured that it would be planted on the grounds of the Motherhouse.

Four years later, I had forgotten about that tiny sapling until I happened upon it behind the main house.  There’s a plaque, nothing fancy, explaining what the tree represents.  The sapling has grown, maybe quadrupled in size, but it is still nothing compared to some of the massive trees that line the property.  It actually still has a support pole holding it up.

What struck me was the growth.

In four years, that little tree has taken root.  It’s stretched its branches, weathered a few storms I’m sure, and has found a home in the landscape of the Motherhouse.  For me, it’s not different from the experience of many Young Lasallians and the Young Lasallian movement.  As Young Lasallians we have found a home in the Lasallian Family; a charism that gives meaning to us professionally, personally and spiritually.  As a movement, Young Lasallians have been given a place at the table to be part of the dialogue of Association for mission.

Yes, Young Lasallians may still need support poles, and yes, maybe we’re not as established and impressive as some of the trees that surround us, but we add something to the landscape of the family.  We offer another branch of Association for mission.  Joseph Gilson, International Coordinator of Young Lasallians, presented to the CIL group last week.  During his presentation he gave an overview of the Young Lasallian movement, an explanation of the groups’ specific gifts to the Lasallian mission and the challenges we face.

Over the last few weeks here at CIL we have been provided numerous opportunities to reflect on the past, learn about the present and dream big about the future.  One group that will bring new growth to the Lasallian mission will be Young Lasallians. It’s from new growth that the mission will thrive.  With the support of the entire Lasallian Family, who knows how high that tree will grow?    

Thanks,

Heather

Personal Reflection By Brother Raymond Blixt

As part of the process of creating a declaration of understanding Lasallian association today this was my personal reflection and contribution to the discussion in my small, immediate group.

UNDERSTANDING AND LIVING LASALLIAN ASSOCIATION TODAY

Personal Reflection:  Br. Ray Blixt fsc

It is with great respect, admiration and gratitude that I am inspired by the Lasallian Founding Story.  The casting of John Baptist De La Salle not as an educator but as a transformational agent and the simplicity and trails of the founding brothers and the heroic stance taken by the founder and his first brothers through the vow of 1691 and 1694 helps me to see our founding story with new eyes and heart. We Lasallians would not be here today if it were not for this heroism.  Millions of young people, particular the most vulnerable, would not have been served.

For me however, the transition, because of need and circumstances, from the founding charismatic community to society and ultimately to Institute (as presented to us by Br. Miguel) creates a problematic concern resulting in unfortunate connection to and influence by the hierarchical and institutional Church.

At the same time I recognize also that historical realities and the needs of our youth today are radically different and that the need for the Lasallian mission is greater than ever.  So while the founding story and the traditions we cherish with that story are inspirational, we must move from tradition to a new response to the needs of our century if our precious heritage and Lasallian mission is to continue.

We have been reminded that we are in a transitional period toward the creation of a new response, a new vision, a transformation of our understanding and living of Lasallian Association today for the sake of our Mission.  It is my belief that the period of transition is over.  It is time for action.  We are being called to a Re-Founding of the Lasallian charism and Mission.  We need not bind ourselves to past history.  We need a new Heroic Vow embraced by Lasallians everywhere committed to the service of the Least, the Last, the Lost. We need, like our first brothers, a Heroic Vow to meet the challenges and opportunities of today that will guarantee the future of our precious Lasallian Mission.  We need to move beyond the limitations of Institute to the creation of a prophetic, charismatic , inclusive Lasallian community and family.

Br Alvaro boldy stated in his reflections with us that “we were born for the poor.”  That was the founding passion and the common purpose of our founder and his brothers.  As Lasallians today we are being called to be “manufacturers of hope” for those among us that are most in need.  We need to be ambassadors for inclusion respecting all cultures, races, religious traditions.  We need to be animators of the Lasallian Mission and advocates for the rights and needs of children.  We need to courageously move from tradition, through and beyond transition for the transformation of who we are individually and collectively as a Lasallian Family.  We need to affirm and live out the reality that it is only Together and By Association that what we have been called to be and to do will bear fruit.

This transformation of mind and heart calls us to a new vision for Lasallian formation that will reach the global Lasallian community and a new vision of what it means to be and to live Association for the Mission.  Formation is and must be the foundation upon which the future of the Lasallian Mission will be guaranteed.

I am reminded of the quote from Karl Rahner that Br Miguel began his presentation as a fitting conclusion to this reflection:

“The real future is the one that comes in its own time and often leaves our predictions and plans in shreds.  What is perhaps most difficult as a way of living in preparation for the real future is letting go of something beautiful which we ourselves may have helped to create.  It must be relinquished not because it has lost its beauty, but because its time has passed and some other new beauty is being made.”

We Lasallians (and especially we CIL-ITES) are being called to create this new beauty!

Day 13 at CIL

CIL 2010:  DAY 13:  THE PROCESS CONTINUES

By Br. Ray Blixt, fsc

The process toward the creation of a unified Declaration on Understanding and Living Lasallian Association Today continued with each of the individual language groups (4 English; 4 Spanish; 1 French) creating a vision statement that was then presented to the language group as a whole.

A consensus statement by each of the full language groups was prepared by a selected writing group for each and disseminated this afternoon and will be discussed tomorrow morning and then the writing group (combined from all three language groups) will attempt to create one unified statement or declaration for the Participants to ratify on Friday prior to the departure of our Lasallian Partners.

This has not been nor will it be an easy or simple task but all are committed to the process and hope for a document that will guide and energize the movement of Association for the Lasallian Mission.

Happy Thanksgiving to All!

CIL Day 12

CIL 2010:   DAY 12    UNDERSTANDING AND LIVING LASALLIAN ASSOCIATION TODAY

OUR TASK BEGINS:   Br. Ray Blixt, fsc

Presentations are completed.  Today began the work of individual and group reflection and a process throughout this week that will culminate in a statement or declaration on Association prepared by the collaborative efforts of the entire CIL Participant Community.  In addition, individually, collectively or by District specific projects are being planned for implementation upon return to our local communities, ministries and districts.

We must discern during this process what is in our MINDS, in our HEARTS, and in our HANDS as we consider all that has happened throughout the first two weeks of our presence here at CIL and consider a hopeful future for the Lasallian Mission.

The process begins with each individual who will then present his or her reflection to the small assigned language group.  Next step in the process will be for all members of a particular language group (English, Spanish and French) to create a statement reflecting the collective agreement of the group.  It will then be the task of a writing group to collect the statements from each of the language groups and prepare a document that will reflect the thinking and discernment of the entire CIL community.

Each group will then review the proposed declaration and a final draft will be prepared. 

Please note that the USA community of CIL participants plan to celebrate our Thanksgiving Holiday here in Rome.  We begin tomorrow evening with a social gathering and will continue our celebration on Thanksgiving Day at lunch here at CASA G.  There is a rumor that Br. Louis DeThomasis will be in the kitchen on Thursday preparing our Thanksgiving Dinner.

Week Three Begins (Day 11)

Understanding and Living Lasallian Association Today

Br. Ray Blixt, fsc

We begin today the final week with our Lasallian partners as we continue our discussion and deliberations regarding Lasallian Association.  Our Lasallian Colleagues depart this weekend and the final two weeks of our sessions will involve the continued presence of the 35 FSC members of our CiL community.

We began with a prayerful reflection prepared by our USA participants.  Our theme was “I Give Myself Away” (giving our full commitment to our Lasallian Mission and the God who calls us to this ministry).

We were privileged and blessed to have Br. Alvaro, Superior as our presenter for the entire morning.  He definitely is an inspirational leader and he described his role this morning as the Animator of the International Lasallian Mission. 

Br. Alvaro reflected on his recent visit with the ministries of the PARC Region where there is great multicultural and multi-religious diversity in the Lasallian Family.  Brother called on us to a conversion of the future and a conversion toward those most in need.  He believes we were born for the poor and must respond today to the new faces of poverty.  His message continuously recalled that Association only has meaning as FOR the Mission and that Mission is one where we give our attention to the Least, The Last, The Lost.

In Association we need to be manufacturers and ambassadors of hope. We need to be agents of a new reality.  He reminded us that we are called not to exclude, not to put out but the embrace all into our inclusive Lasallian family. 

The participants engaged in conversational dialogue with Br. Alvaro.  His entire presentation was then given to each participant for further reflection as we gather in small groups for discussion.

His presence and his beautiful reflection was most inspiring for all.

Called to Serve

Part of my private reflection time is re-reading materials that may inspire me again. As I looked through prayer services, I was once again struck with one used in our small language group the other day.

The Gospel reading from John which tells the story of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet was the inspiration for the title, “The Call to Serve.” We all know the story well as it is part of the Christian Lenten week services. Jesus explains to the disciples who are not clear about this action of his to help them see what the action of washing their feet symbolizes for them, by saying, “For if I have set you an example, it is that you should also do as I have done to you.”

A Reading was part of the service and was written by Andy Alexander of Creighton University Online Ministries. I attempted to use my own words, but realized I could not respond better to the Gospel reading than he. Here are his words . . .

“The washing of feet teaches several things. It is not easy to have our feet washed. They smell. They are not very attractive. It is a part of our bodies that we rarely let others touch or caress. And, it is not easy to wash the feet of another. This is all a powerful drama representing the power of love. It is not easy for me to let me love you. . . When you put me off or when you are not at your best, I don’t do so well at loving.

Jesus loves us unconditionally, that is without condition. He loves us, not because we deserve it. He loves us because he knows we need loving. He tells us to love the same way. In the washing of the feet, we are given his…self-sacrificing example of how to love each other. ‘This much,’ he says, ‘Love one another this completely, this freely, loving the most unattractive parts of each other, where love is needed most’.”

One reflection question was, “Whose feet is God calling me to wash?”Immediately my thoughts went to the boys entrusted to our care in St. Gabriel’s System and personally to the boys I encounter daily at De La Salle In Towne. They are the unloved. They are the ones who must see us as role models for loving unconditionally regardless of how “smelly” we may become or not at our best. Sometimes it is easier to see the “unattractive parts” of our boys-the verbal aggression and hurtful words, the anger expressed when we are required to correct their behaviors, than see in them the face of God. Loving them needs to emanate from us, because this is where love is needed most!

from Pam Walker

A Preposition Proposition.

A nun in elementary school made us memorize prepositions…”above, about, around,..before, behind, between…”  Eventually I came to understand why they are so important.  They describe relationships – in significant ways.

There was one phrase that Donna Orsuto used on Friday near the end of her presentation that got me to thinking again about prepositions.  She gave us several exciting signs of vitality in the Church today – communities with deep personal faith in Jesus, who have a global imagination, who foster dialogue and communion among other animating qualities. 

Among her remarks, she mentioned work “for the poor,” and thus my preposition proposition: to work with the poor, rather than for them.  After the presentations and conversations of the past two weeks, I think “with” denotes a Lasallian relationship more genuinely than “for.”   It also seems more in keeping with the principle of subsidiarity mentioned in Circular 461 (I.15.1).

It's a minor point – which preposition to use.  But it helps clarify relationships, so it’s a helpful one for me.

Lois

Day 10 at CIL

CIL:  DAY 10

UNDERSTANDING AND LIVING LASALLIAN ASSOCIATION TODAY

Br. Ray Blixt, fsc

As day 9 ended last night on a wonderful celebration of the birthdays of several of our Lasallian CIL-ITES we discovered the spirit of community among all the participants has been greatly enhanced by the music, dancing, karaoke, and games which we shared.  This was clearly in evidence as we begin Day 10.  Participants also received CIL T-Shirts which were produced by our MDP Academy students and staff.  These were highly prized by all.

Today’s session focused on Theological and Spiritual Reflections as the foundation of our Lasallian Mission and the living of Lasallian Association.

The presenter was Dr Donna Orsudo.  She helped to clarify clearly the difference between career (seeking success) and Vocation (seeking to make a difference).

As our vocational challenge we were asked to consider that “the place God calls us to is the place where our deep gladness and the world’s hunger meet.”

We were presented with (6) spiritual attitudes to consider:  cultivate friendship; listen well; treat one another with extraordinary respect;  see one another in the best possible light; foster love that casts out fear; be companions in hope.

During the time together with Dr. Orsudo we were able to engage in table conversations and well as dialogue with her.  The session was very positively received by the participants.

CIL Day 9

CIL DAY 9: 

UNDERSTANDING AND LIVING LASALLIAN ASSOCIATION TODAY

Br. Ray Blixt, fsc

The long awaited presentation by Brother Miguel Campos, fsc finally took place today via video.  Br. Miguel guided us through a most interesting perspective on the foundations of the Lasallian Mission.  It is Br. Miguel’s contention that we need to spend time and research on the founding brothers and not just on our Founder. 

Br Miguel outlined for us the first three generations of followers of De La Salle.  The initial community (the founding community) formed in a more charismatic venture.  The second generation, while still in association with the Founder, began to focus on more structures for community and training for the Mission.  The third generation, after the death of the founder, began to formalize and institutionalize both community life and response to the mission.

It is Br. Miguel’s contention that a deeper understanding of these generations will help us to understand more clearer our current initiatives and hopes for the movements taking place in Lasallian Association.

The context for the presentation was the following quote from Karl Rahner:

“The real future is the one that comes in its own time

And often leaves our predictions and plans in shreds.

What is perhaps more difficult

As a way of living in preparation for the real future

Is letting go of something beautiful

Which we ourselves have helped to create.

It must be relinquished, not because it has lost its beauty,

But because the time has passed.

Some other new beauty is being made.”

This reflective passage resonated with the CIL participants in expresses the hopes for the future that our conversations and deliberations have been leading us to.

The evening was spent in joyful celebration of the birthdays of several of our Lasallian CIL-ITES!

CIL Day #8

CIL 2010:  DAY 8:  PROMOTING INTER-RELIGIOUS DIALOGUE AND FRIENDSHIPS

Given the cultural and religious diversity that continues to share in the Lasallian Family and Mission, the topic presented today by Father Felix Korner, SJ, Jesuit theologian and scholar was much appreciated by the CIL Participants.  The particular focus was to begin to understand the links as well as the differences between our Christian traditions and those of our Muslim brothers and sisters.

Reflection and insights were provided to probe the Muslim understanding of Allah (God) and the 99 most beautiful names attributed to God in the Muslim experience and tradition. 

Fr. Korner indicated that the encounter with other religious traditions can give us a clarity of freshness and connection in the field beyond right and wrong as a gift of new inspiration as we experience other realities and spiritual searches.

The presentation provided three clearly defined areas of exploration:  Encounter, Witness and Association.

Afternoon session included a report by each of the group leaders highlighting the main themes, conversations, deliberations and priorities evolving from the group sessions.

CIL participants joined in the evening Liturgy with the MotherHouse Central Community for the anniversary of the Dedication of the Chapel of our Founder.

Wait, there's no answer key at the end of the Circular?

“Out beyond ideas of right and wrong, there is a field.  I’ll meet you there.”

-       Rumi, Sufi Mystic

It was fitting that Brother Charles Kitson quoted this from Circular #461 toward the beginning of his presentation this morning.  Brother Charles broke down for us the process of how the Circular was written, provided historical perspective, and challenged us with critical issues surrounding the Circular. 

In the last few days we have been challenged with serious questions from some of our presenters.  How will we be "transformational agents for mission?"  How will we "breathe life into old bones?"  How will we "live out our Lasallian vocation, associated with others, for mission?"  Part of me would like answers to all the questions.  Part of me wants everything to be cut and dry, easily explained, and fit into a neat little package of Association that I can store conveniently in the overhead space on my plane ride home.  But, I am learning that Association is a process.

The gift has been realizing that there is not one answer.  The gift has been in listening to others in the community of CIL.  We need to celebrate the diversity of Association for mission and share in the connectedness of our journeys.  A member of my language group mentioned that Lasallians she works with, “Fall in love with the Founder’s story.”  I thought this was a beautiful way of expressing one way we enter into Association for mission.  Haven’t we all fallen in love with the story?  One response to this is our call to live Association for mission today, imagine possibilities, and be bold enough transform Lasallian mission for the future.   

On a lighter note: Highlight of the day, aside from discussion of Association and dinner with DENA delegates: I did not have to mime/explain, “I’ve broken the washing machine and soapy water is flooding the room,” in Italian to anyone today.  Successfully wash clothes without flooding Motherhouse: check. 

Thanks,

Heather

Day 7 in CIL

CIL DAY 7:

 UNDERSTANDING AND LIVING LASALLIAN ASSOCIATION TODAY

We began our seventh day will a prayerful reflection and call:  “Lasallians Be Transformed by the Renewal of Your Hearts and Minds”

Br. Charles Kitson then led us through the historical events and process which culminated in the publication of Circular 461:  “Associated for the Lasallian Mission:  An Act of Hope.”

We were guided to consider the essential elements of Lasallian Association:

·       A vocational call of Faith

·       Embracing of the Lasallian Story and Journey

·       Sharing in Community

·       Mission as the essential core

·       Duration of Commitment Together and By Association

Br. Charles presented three critical issues for deliberation and discussion in small group sessions: Several questions were outlined for each of the issues:

·       Is association a vocational response or an acquired status?

·       Is Everybody invited to be part of the Lasallian Family?

·       Are All Lasallians co-responsible for the Mission?

The afternoon session called for District Groups to gather to continue discussion on projects to be implemented upon completion of the CIL experience.

An evening liturgy was prepared by participants from English speaking ministries.

The cutting edge ... in the Bronx (Lois)

Whenever I attend a conference or a formation program, I experience an almost overwhelming sense of possibility.  I wonder about all the things I can / should do when I get back to Cornerstone / Campus Ministry & Social Action / Manhattan College.  Then I take a deep breath and try and discern what I might really be able to do.  

I think some of the tasks outlined by Diego Munoz yesterday (see Ray’s post) will end up on my short list.   For want thing, I want to “develop cutting-edge community projects at the service of the poor.”  I’m not sure yet what they will be but I think we have some potential at the College that needs exploring.  For one thing, we are in the Bronx – the poorest urban county in the US.  Reading the signs of our times – and our neighborhoods – should give us ample work to do. 

The key for me is to go beyond “community service” to “projects at the service of the poor.”  Say for instance, ESL classes for our Spanish speaking custodial staff.  Or the income tax preparation our students will do again this coming tax season. (It saves hundreds of Bronx residents thousands upon thousands of dollars.)  Or tenant and community organizing in buildings ravaged by the current debt and mortgage crisis.  Buildings only a few blocks south and east of our campus.   

Stay tuned!

Personal Reflection from Raymond Blixt

CIL 2010:  UNDERSTAND AND LIVING LASALLIAN ASSOCIATION TODAY

Personal Reflection on Week #1:  Ray Blixt

The separation from the MDP Ministry and community and friends to embrace a new setting, community and daily schedule of specific routines and sessions was initially a difficult transition.  However being with Lasallians from our District and other USA Districts helped ease anxieties and transitional uneasiness.  Being in an International Community of dedicated Lasallians with rich cultural diversity was most energizing for me.

The highlight of week one for me was the presentation by Louis DeThomasis, fsc which provided all of us with a stimulating challenge to see our traditions and current realities in a new way leading to transformation. The experience of association in the small English speaking language group which I lead and the conversations that resulted has been exceptional.  Significant and thought provoking and creative sharing bonded the group together from inception.  The pace of our daily schedule is most reasonable. The CIL staff were most kind and accommodating to our needs. The wireless communication in the conference room has been erratic to say the least.  However internet connection in the private rooms has been adequate.  Overall a very positive beginning to this 5 week experience.

CIL Day 6

CIL 2010:  DAY 6 

Our new week began with a reflective and creative prayer service presented by our colleagues from Spain with the theme of “Dreaming New Realities.” 

Our primary focus for today was “Association for the Educational Service of the Poor:  Our Lasallian Identity” presented by Br. Diego Munoz.  The presentation was an exceptional review of the historical traditions, movements, influences impacting on our current understanding of the vow of association and the issues and hopes for the future of understanding and living Lasallian Association Today.

Br. Diego clearly articulated that all Lasallians today (not just the brothers) are called to be the heart, memory and guarantor of the Lasallian charism and to promote the new structures of community and commitment for Association for Mission in service of the poor in our current historical period and as a foundation of our transition to the future.

Br.Diego invited each of us:

To recover the value of the dignity of teaching

To develop cutting edge community projects at the service of the poor

To break classic frameworks and give bold answers

To live our faith in the midst of a troubled world

To respect one’s own vocation, one’s own project, but in association with others (be one in our diversity)

To surrender oneself to the project of the God of Life – who wishes all to be saved and come to the knowledge of truth.

The remainder of Day 6 was spent in personal and small group reflection.

Time to relax...and learn

Today we went to Tivoli Gardens and Hadrian's Villa.  Tivoli was spectacular - starting right with the views of the valley on the ride up the hill into the town.  Then we went inside to see the opulence of the Villa followed by the fantastic array of fountains and waterways.  They could take your breath away.  Hadrian's Villa is still under excavation and the original use of the various buildings is still being determined.  It was fascinating to learn about that early second century period.  Thanks to Tina Bonacci for making all the arrangements!
The other great benefit of the day was the time we Lasallians got to spend together in a relaxed atmosphere, talking, laughing and learning from one another.  I walked and talked with people from New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, and Spain, as well as folks from all over USA/TOR.  We talked about our work, our families and our lives. We shared experiences from our ministries - both good and challenging. 

Some of us talked about exploring the role of women - past and present - in the Lasallian project. We talked about what we might do when we get home with all the information and enthusiasm (aka zeal) we're absorbing at CIL.  On the ride back to Casa LaSalle I had the opportunity to speak at length with Br. Agustin from Andalucia and we discovered several Brothers we know in common - from DENA and Lwanga! It's small Lasallian world.

Tomorrow - back to work!  We'll be hearing about Association and Vows from Br. Diego Munoz.

Ciao,
Lois

CIL Day 5

CIL 2010:  DAY 5

UNDERSTANDING AND LIVING LASALLIAN ASSOCIATION TODAY

Participants were asked to begin exploring the creation of specific projects which can be implemented within a district or region upon completion of the CIL sessions and return to respective ministries.

The participants from the USA/Toronto Region gathered initially as a full group of 17 members and explored some possibilities for a national gathering of all Lasallians who have participated in currently existing formation programs with a view toward the creation of new models for formation and association for mission.  Discussion on this possibility will continue in the days ahead but no specific plan was initiated at this time.

The participants representing each district within the USA/Toronto region then gathered by district to discuss possible projects to initiate upon our return.  We focused on the creation of a video overview, informational and background information, education and finally invitation.  These areas will be explored in more detail as the days progress and a final plan of action will be agreed upon by our seven DENA participants.

We do not have photos to post for this session.  Participants are free now until Monday morning  Many have organized small group and tour travel to enjoy the sites of Rome as well as area surroundings.  This is a welcome break from the intensity of this first week of sessions.

CIL Day 4 -- Br. Ray Blixt

CIL 2010:  DAY 4

UNDERSTANDING AND LIVING LASALLIAN ASSOCIATION TODAY

The entire day was spent in conversations, deliberations and summations in our small groups (by Language) followed by a presentation by each of the small groups to the entire participant group.

Common and converging issues and questions seem to be emerging and participants seem anxious to move forward from process to action. 

Some of the common themes that were articulated centered on how and when to move from tradition to transformation.  Why is it so difficult to see current realities that need to be changed and transformed?  We need to see with new eyes (lenses) and build upon the rich cultural and religious diversity of our Lasallian Family.  We need to be seers and manufacturers of hope for all who have been entrusted to our care and for all who have the privilege to share with us our Lasallian Mission.

Creative formation for the future of the Lasallian Mission seems to also be an emerging theme.

TAKE OFF YOUR SHOES...the place you walk on is holy ground

This was the inspiration for our prayer service last evening. My first thoughts took me to the hundreds of times in my life I walked on the beach and always felt a calmness like no other. An image of my feet slowly sinking deeper into the sand as I stood at the waters edge now creates a new image of deepening faith and committment to the mission.
Being blessed to be in the presence of all of the others who share the committment here is an awesome experience. Now it is as if I can look down the beach and see 150 foot steps walking in the sand, heading in the same direction.
Brother Louis De Thomasis, spoke of seeing the present, saying the now is not okay, and then transforming the future.
I'm sure I will need more time walking the waters edge to ponder this more deeply. And how fortunate I feel to have 150 foot steps making imprints as we walk together.