The District of Eastern North America (DENA) recently hosted a significant visit from members of the General Council, marking a meaningful period of connection, collaboration, and mission-focused dialogue. From January 11 to 17, Br. Carlos Gomez, Vicar General, along with Br. Ricardo Laguda and Br. Chris Patiño, General Councilors, engaged with a variety of groups across the District, reflecting their commitment to strengthening the bonds within the Lasallian global family.
Key Meetings and Engagements
During their week-long visit, the General Council members met with Brothers, discerners, and leaders of the District. A particular focus of these interactions was fostering vocations and supporting those in discernment, while also sharing insights from the international Lasallian mission.
In addition, the Council met with the leadership of DENA’s two higher education institutions, La Salle University and Manhattan University, where they discussed the institutions’ roles in advancing Lasallian education, innovation, and community engagement.
The visit also included meetings with the District Council and the Mission Council. These sessions served as a forum for strategic discussions, allowing both the General Council and DENA leaders to align on shared priorities and deepen the collective impact of their ministry efforts.
Highlighting Lasallian Urban Education
A highlight of the visit was the opportunity to experience firsthand the vibrant work of ministries within the District, particularly those focused on Lasallian Urban Education. The General Councilors divided into groups to visit various ministries in Philadelphia, New York, and Rhode Island.
These ministries exemplified the Lasallian mission of providing transformative education to underserved and marginalized communities. By witnessing these efforts, the General Council expressed their solidarity and support for the educators and students whose lives were shaped by the mission.
A Lasallian Urban Education Summit was held at West Catholic Preparatory School, where reflection, collaboration, and commitment provided a deeper understanding of the critical role of Lasallian education in transforming the lives of young people in urban settings.
Strengthening the Lasallian Network
This visit underscored the global connection that defines the Lasallian mission, reaffirming a shared dedication to faith, service, and community. The insights and inspiration gained from these engagements will continue to guide the efforts of both the General Council and the DENA community in their pursuit of educational excellence and social transformation.
As the visit concluded, the General Council members expressed their gratitude to all those who contributed to making their journey impactful and enriching. Their presence served as a powerful reminder of the unity and vitality of the Lasallian mission in DENA and beyond.
