With over 130 attendees, there’s no doubt the spirit of Lasallian mission worldwide was alive and well during the joint virtual meeting of International Young Brothers Assembly (IYBA) delegates and International Symposium of Young Lasallians (IYSL) members last March 12th . Central to the meeting were each group’s proposals for the 46th General Chapter.
The assembly was suitably begun with an opening prayer service which was led by Br. Brinesh Rayen FSC (India) and Br. Pierre Aymard Bako FSC (Burikina Faso). After that, the Superior General Br. Bob Schieler exhorted the youth, commended them, and thanked them for their vibrant and positive presence in the institute. He emphasized that the institute specifically needs their passion and vision. Likewise, he encouraged them to be specific and creative with their Chapter proposals.
Before the reports started, a brief introduction to the process of documentation, deliberation, and finalization of proposals was provided by Br. Dylan Perry FSC (USA) and Ms. Sarah Laitinen.
Reported by Br. Miguel Marcos FSC (Spain), the discernment of the IYBA delegates navigated five key areas and culminated in the formulation of the following calls to action:
- Cultivating missionary spirit
- Formation of dynamic communities
- Development of the Brothers’ spiritual life
- Promotion of vocational culture
- Cultivating creative fidelity
On the other hand, the ISYL members’ proposals were outlined by Keane Palatino. Among the areas covered were:
- Culture of vocations
- Service with the poor
- Communications and networking
- Sustainable organizational growth
A panel discussion moderated by Damian Khouri was held to synthesize the reports. Br. Fady Salama FSC (Egypt), Br. Carlos Pinto (Colombia), Nadège, and Ms. Regina Bettag were the panelists. In the said segment, the panelists shared with the rest of the participants their hopes and dreams for the future of the institute.
Those present in the meeting also took part in a breakout session which sort of concluded the said gathering.
Br. Aikee Esmeli FSC (Philippines) and Ms. Alice Gravelle Vieira were the masters of ceremony. (Text & Photo: Br. Emong Viroomal FSC)
