https://www.delasalle.org.au/ delasalle.org.au Blog en 19/11/2019 7:00:00 AM https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/lasallian-from-dls-malvern-named-bradman-young-cricketer https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/lasallian-from-dls-malvern-named-bradman-young-cricketer Wes Agar from the De La Salle Malvern Class of 2014, captained an ACC 1st X1 Cricket Premiership. Wes also had a brief stint on the staff  as AFL Trainee in 2015 before moving to Adelaide. At the Allan Border Medal ceremony recently, Wes was named the Bradman Young Cricketer of the Year a wonderful honour and just reward for the terrific work Wes has put in since moving to Adelaide. Wes was in a Victorian development squad when still here but has really blossomed into a very promising fast bowler at Sheffield Shield and T20 level since moving to South Australia. ................... Fri, 28 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/formation-for-formators https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/formation-for-formators Youth Ministers and Lasallian Volunteers play a crucial role in the Lasallian movement within the schools across the District. Many of the Youth Ministers this year return to the role for a second year in a row to fulfil their call to serve. The Lasallian Volunteers dedicate 10 months of the year to a school that needs their help, whether it be in New Zealand, Perth, Balgo Hills, Queensland or Sydney. Youth Ministers scatter themselves across the District with the same purpose in mind, to further the work of St John Baptist de La Salle and inspire their students to do so too. Some schools... Fri, 28 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/vale-br-gerald-scott---old-boy-asfield https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/vale-br-gerald-scott---old-boy-asfield We were saddened at the beginning of the our school year to hear of the passing of a distinguished old boy of De La Salle College Ashfield, Father Gerald Scott CM, aged 88 years. Father Gerald and his younger brother Fr Bernard Scott (deceased) both entered the Vincentian fathers upon leaving school at DLS. Gerald and Bernard were two of nine children of Ellen and James Scott. All attended school at St Vincents, Bethlehem and De La Salle. The Scott family were stalwarts of St Vincent's parish and its school community. The extended Scott family involvement in the Ashfield community s... Fri, 28 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/critical-new-funding-announced-for-kids-helpline-to-help-combat-mental-health-concerns-for-children-in-new-south-wales https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/critical-new-funding-announced-for-kids-helpline-to-help-combat-mental-health-concerns-for-children-in-new-south-wales To help combat youth mental health issues, children and young people living in New South Wales will have improved access to Kids Helpline, with a Kids Helpline Counselling Centre set to open in western Sydney. Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women, Minister Bronnie Taylor stated that funding will support Kids Helpline, a service of yourtown, to answer an additional 18,000 contacts per year. The funding commitment of $5.5 million over four years is a critical step forward enabling Kids Helpline to respond to greater numbers of children and young people contacting the free ... Thu, 27 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/dedication-2020--from-good-to-great https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/dedication-2020--from-good-to-great On Wednesday 12th February 2020 the staff and students of Francis Douglas Memorial College gathered at our Parish Church, St Joseph's to celebrate Mass for the beginning of the 2020 school year and to dedicate our Year 13 students alongside the Student Leadership Team to the College. Our theme for the year is "From Good to Great", and our Mass reflected this from start to finish. Firstly we transported 800 students from Francis Douglas Memorial College situated on the upper west side of the city into the Central City where our Parish Church is located. This in itself is no... Thu, 27 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/endless-possibilities-of-untapped-opportunity https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/endless-possibilities-of-untapped-opportunity Welcome back to all members of the Southern Cross Community. It has been an excellent start to the new year and a great pleasure to see the happy faces of the children, the relaxed faces of the staff and on occasion the slightly relieved faces of some of the mums and dads. The beginning of a new year always brings an excitement for the times ahead. When that beginning of a new year is also the beginning of a new decade, the enthusiasm seems to be greater. There is a great sense of what could happen. The endless possibilities of untapped opportunity. Sure, it is hard to get back into t... Wed, 26 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/dls-brother-volunteers-in-south-sudan https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/dls-brother-volunteers-in-south-sudan Brother Adrian Watson spent four months at the end of 2019 volunteering at the Solidarity Teacher Training College in Yambio, South Sudan. Here he reflects on some aspects of his time in the teacher training college: Solidarity Teacher Training College is located in Yambio, a town of about 35,000 about 4 degrees north of the equator and about 40 kilometres from the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The small plane from Juba to Yambio lands on a dirt runway, and passengers are hustled into a first aid tent to complete a survey form and have their temperature taken t... Wed, 26 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/a-principals-reflection https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/a-principals-reflection A Cherokee Indian elder was teaching his grandson about life. "A fight is going on inside me," he said to the boy. "It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves. One is evil he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego." He continued, "The other is good he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. The same fight is going on inside you and inside every other person, too." His grandson t... Wed, 26 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/journal-la-salle---6-month-revoew https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/journal-la-salle---6-month-revoew Journal La Salle for later half of 2019 is a compilation of the countless events that took place across the greater Lasallian District. With multiple perspectives ranging from Pakistan, to Papua New Guinea to in Australia and New Zealand where so many De La Salle Colleges educate the masses of young people to live by the Lasallian values. Journal La Salle is more than a collection of articles; it is a celebration of the year that was the tercentenary of our founder, St John Baptist de La Salle. Throughout this Journal, there are various accounts of masses and events centred on the the... Wed, 26 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/designed-to-serve-the-most-vulnerable-communities-throughout-the-world https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/designed-to-serve-the-most-vulnerable-communities-throughout-the-world The Beyond the Borders Initiatives are Lasallian international outreach programs, designed to serve the most vulnerable communities throughout the world. OKI-NI-SOO-KA-WA BLACKFEET IMMERSION OKI-NI-SOO-KA-WA (Come and See) Blackfeet Immersion is one of the Lasallian Beyond the Borders Initiatives, which takes place in the De La Salle Blackfeet School in Browning, Montana. Browning is the capital of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, home to 12,000 Blackfeet and it is located in one of the poorest counties in the US. The reservation has one of the highest high school dropout rates o... Tue, 25 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/parc-convenes-workshop-on-pastoral-ministry-on-youth-and-lasallian-vocations https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/parc-convenes-workshop-on-pastoral-ministry-on-youth-and-lasallian-vocations The Pacic Asia Regional Conference (PARC) convened a 3-day workshop on Pastoral Ministry on Youth and Lasallian Vocations held in The Courtyard Marriott Hotel in Hong Kong last January 9-11, 2020. Participated in by representatives from Australia, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam, the workshop aimed at gathering the Pastoral Ministry of Vocations (PMV) leaders in the region to heighten awareness of the culture of vocations, be more involved in promoting Lasallian vocations, participate actively in identifying high potential candida... Mon, 24 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/vocation-prayer-february-2020 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/vocation-prayer-february-2020 Christ is alive! He is our hope, and in a wonderful way he brings youth to our world, and everything he touches becomes young, new, full of life. The very first words, then, that I would like to say to every young Christian are these: Christ is alive and he wants you to be alive! Click HERE to read more Mon, 24 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/impacting-our-communities--if-not-you--then-who- https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/impacting-our-communities--if-not-you--then-who- We all have a responsibility to our communities. This responsibility is the same as the one we have for our families. This responsibility comes from a sense of belonging and taking ownership of our communities. However, it can be difficult at times to answer that call to serve because we struggle to identify what or who we are called to. Once we discover our 'why' and our 'how' there is an immense power in what the action of a single group of people can do in a community and when we change our communities, we change the world. Ubuntu Like many of us, I have had the gre... Mon, 24 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/congratulations--br--mandy- https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/congratulations--br--mandy- Br. Normandy Dujunco FSC successfully defended his PhD dissertation with the title, Inculturated Faith Formation of New Teachers Through Narrative Theology at Yarra Theological Union, University of Divinity located in Melbourne, Australia. He was supervised by Rev. Michael Kelly, CSsR, PhD, and Edmund Chia, PhD. His graduation will be on 2020 March 27, in St. Patrick's Cathedral in Melbourne. Congratulations, Br. Mandy! Fri, 21 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/st-bede-s-help-those-in-extremely-conditions-in-india https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/st-bede-s-help-those-in-extremely-conditions-in-india At the end of November last year, fourteen year twelve students, accompanied by four staff members, travelled to Southern India for a life-changing two weeks spent with the inspiring organisation Reaching the Unreached. The boys spent two tough weeks helping to construct five brand new houses for five needy families, who were previously living in extremely tough conditions without plumbing or electricity. By the time we left these families had a new place to live and the St Bede's crew had formed memories that will last a lifetime. In their spare time, the boys taught English at t... Fri, 21 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/-great-things-are-possible-----james-sheahan-orange-students-in-conversation-with-br-arian-and-br-lewis https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/-great-things-are-possible-----james-sheahan-orange-students-in-conversation-with-br-arian-and-br-lewis "Great things are possible," a Lasallian Brother originating from the Philippines informed an impressionable group of Year 10 and 11 students last Friday after James Sheahan Catholic High School's impressive Opening School Mass; his presence itself proving that great things indeed are happening. Brother Arian and Brother Lewis (a Central Western local himself having grown up in Dubbo) both visited Sheahan to deliver talks to the students in Year 10 and Year 11 revolving around the work of one of our founders, St John Baptist De LaSalle. Our Charism Talks and Workshops are ... Fri, 21 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/0-years--experience-in-education--welfare-and-counselling-joins-the-lmc-board https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/0-years--experience-in-education--welfare-and-counselling-joins-the-lmc-board Lyn Harrison has over 40 years' experience in Education, Welfare and Counselling. This experience includes key roles as a Teacher, School Counsellor, Private Psychologist, Private Consultant to Schools, Executive Manager and Chief Executive Officer. Highly significant was Lyn's leadership in developing the Marist Youth Care Restorative Justice Program. This innovative program challenged schools to reflect and review their systems in responding to students with extremely challenging behaviours. At the heart of the program was the belief that young people can learn from their mist... Thu, 20 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/john-paul-college-encourages-students-to-seize-every-opportunity https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/john-paul-college-encourages-students-to-seize-every-opportunity John Paul College Rotorua blessed their year 13 students on the 12th February 2020. The Investiture Mass is the first mass for the year. We invest in our year 13s. In 2020 our senior students will provide leadership and service to our school and the wider community. Our theme for 2020 is Carpe Diem. Seize the Day. John Paul College is encouraging leaders and all students to seize every opportunity presented to them. Even the smallest thing can make a difference to someone. Every day is a new day. Make the most of every day. Pope Francis has said to the youth. Love is what matters.... Wed, 19 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/de-la-salle-secondary-school-bomana-awarded-for-best-academic-performance-in-2019 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/de-la-salle-secondary-school-bomana-awarded-for-best-academic-performance-in-2019 The Papua New Guinea Department of Education has announced the top performing Schools  in terms of academic performance in 2019. Some rural schools performed well this year. De La Salle Secondary School Bomana under the leadership of Br Antony Swamy was awarded for best academic performance in 2019. DLS Bomana was placed 10th for Grade 10 and 11th for Grade12 in 2019. In 2018, the school was ranked 11th for Grade 10 and 60th in Grade 12.  The rankings are based on the overall academic performance sourced from the internal and external results or marks put together. The compl... Tue, 18 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/youth-better-equipped-to-talk-mental-health https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/youth-better-equipped-to-talk-mental-health Young people are more likely to seek help for mental health and technology addiction than their counterparts a decade ago. Mental health was the top reason young people contacted Kids Helpline, run by yourtown, in the 2018-19 financial year. yourtown chief executive Tracy Adams said this had changed over time, because of the societal push to break down stigma and advocate for mental health. ''[ The community] has created a mechanism that means people can be comfortable to talk about mental health and young people are growing up with that,'' Ms Adams said. '' ... Mon, 17 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/png-lasallian-heritage-2020-in-session https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/png-lasallian-heritage-2020-in-session A fresh start is what many people resolute to at the start of a new year. Even for teachers, whether they have been teaching for more than 10 years and have just started their careers, they too are determined to start afresh.  All 40 teachers at De La Salle Secondary school, Bomana and 18 new teachers  from La Salle Technical College Hohola participated in a one-day  PNG Lasallian Heritage Program on the 27th - 30th of January. The program was facilitated by the school-based Lasallian Adult Formators - Br. Luke Warvanuk FSC for Bomana, Br. Sajawal FSC for Lasalle Technical ... Mon, 17 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/faith--action---brotherhood-at-dls-ashfield https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/faith--action---brotherhood-at-dls-ashfield "The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.' (Mark 25:39-40) I would like to welcome back all staff, students and families to De La Salle College for 2020. In particular I would like to warmly welcome all new members of the De La Salle community, especially our Year 7 students and families. I hope your sons and families have received a warm welcome and have felt the sense of community that is so alive in our school. The De La Salle College theme for 2020, developed by Senior College ... Fri, 14 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/are-you-up-to-be--ashed--in-202o- https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/are-you-up-to-be--ashed--in-202o- What an opportunity to do consensus building. We as Lasallians really need our Prayers and Mass Booklets to achieve for our faith-communities, for Ash Wednesday. Not all of us might understand the ritual; the smudging; what the invitation is all about; what is the soul soul work being asked of us especially in this season of Lent; and what is the message of about being in right relationship with God.  If we don't, what will these Prayers or Mass Booklets reflect to those whom we seek to educate? Step One: I find that I need to commence with me making sense of my own theolog... Fri, 14 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/franco-found-the-joya-in-lasallian-youth-ministry https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/franco-found-the-joya-in-lasallian-youth-ministry Franco De Joya was born in the Philippines and migrated to Australia when he was 1. Growing up in Australia, raised in a Catholic household by Lasallian alumni, Franco grew to love his Lasallian community and flourish not only in Australia, but in New Zealand too. We sat down with Franco, amidst the beginning of his second year as Youth Minister at Oakhill College to get to know a little more about him and his journey to where he is today. Franco stepped into the role of Youth Minister at Oakhill after being a Lasallian Volunteer in New Zealand in 2018. What made you go from being a... Thu, 13 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/prayer-for-blessed-james-alfred-miller--fsc https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/prayer-for-blessed-james-alfred-miller--fsc James Miller was born on 21 September 1944 in Ellis, in the northern United States. Growing up in Catholic family, he attended the local p1imary school and then Pacelli High School in Stevens Point, which was run by the Brothers of the Christian Schools. It was there that his vocation blossomed. His formation began at the Brothers' house of formation in Glencoe and then at Saint Mary's University in Winona. After religious profession in 1969 he decided to become a missionary. His pastoral ministry began in Nicaragua, where he remained from 1969 until 1980. Recalled to the United S... Thu, 13 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/stand-firm-in-your-faith-and-be-courageous https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/stand-firm-in-your-faith-and-be-courageous "Stand firm in your faith and be courageous" is our school theme for 2020. On the 7th February, De La Salle College Mangere East celebrated the start of the school year with an opening mass. Using para-liturgy, it better explained different symbols that relate to our theme, which includes: a cross (for the death of Christ Jesus for humanity's salvation), a cloth (for the courage that Christ had shown by laying himself on the cross with barely a cloth to cover him), and finally a candle (for the light that is Christ himself, our guide to heaven). Our celebra... Wed, 12 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/lasallian-student-leader-semina--a-gathering-of-like-minded--humble--united-lasallian-student-leaders https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/lasallian-student-leader-semina--a-gathering-of-like-minded--humble--united-lasallian-student-leaders The Lasallian Student Leader Seminar, a gathering of like-minded, humble, united Lasallians began 2020 with positive vibes. Collaroy housed over 100 Lasallians from across the District, bringing the fresh student leaders of 2020 together for a jam-packed 5 days of activities. Lasallian leadership was the theme of the week that every College leader, Volunteer and Youth Minister centred their reflections and presentations. Beginning on Monday 20th of January, Lasallians from Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa, united in Collaroy on the North Coast of Au... Mon, 10 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/50-students-enrolled-at-the-national-catechist-training-centre https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/50-students-enrolled-at-the-national-catechist-training-centre In 1951 Bishop Chialeo, then the Bishop of Multan decided to commence a one-year training program to train Catechists for the diocese of Multan. He began the program in Khushpur, Diocese of Faisalabad (Lyallpur at that time). This one-year program started on the May 17th, 1952 under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Philip (parish priest). Fr. Philip was the 1st in charge of the under-training Catechist. Since then, 958 young men have gone through the training programme. Some of them attended the one-year course, some two, and most of them attended the three years program. The present program is... Mon, 10 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/lasallians-in-bethlehem-lend-a-hand-to-the-australian-bushfire-crisis https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/lasallians-in-bethlehem-lend-a-hand-to-the-australian-bushfire-crisis While rain flows over Bethlehem, the Australian bushfires continue to take over much of the State of New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria. Not only affecting millions of animals and wildlife but thousands of homes and Australians. The students of Bethlehem University in the Holy Land hear of the tragic bushfires taking over their Lasallian community in Australia and feel helpless. Br Peter Bray FSC, Vice-Chancellor of the University, has had multiple students ask for ways of donating to help the firefighters, Koalas and suffering families. With discussion from Lasallians here in Aus... Mon, 10 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/saint-miguel-febres-cordero https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/saint-miguel-febres-cordero Cuenca (Ecuador), 11.07.1854 Premiá de Mar (Spain), 02.09.1910 Brother Miguel came from an upper middle class family in Ecuador, a family that did not appreciate the idea of one of its family members going off to join a religious Institute dedicated solely to teaching. This, they thought, would not allow him to follow a prestigious church career and would even exclude him from following some other honorable ca-reer such as that of a magistrate or a civil servant or a career in the army. His vocation as an educator began on the benches of the first school that the Congregation ... Sun, 09 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/order-of-australia-awarded-to-peter-wallace---a-man-of-vision--a-great-leader-and-a-builder-of-community- https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/order-of-australia-awarded-to-peter-wallace---a-man-of-vision--a-great-leader-and-a-builder-of-community- Peter was a man of vision, a great leader and a builder of community. His outstanding dedication to primary, secondary and community education and the Catholic community of the western suburbs of Adelaide spans across five decades.  With almost seventeen teaching years at St Michael's College (1960 1976), Peter introduced innovative approaches to teaching for this period using overhead projectors (very unusual in the 1960s). Later, Peter became Principal (1974-1976) where he was responsible for much of the initial expansion of the school infrastructure at the Henley Beach Campu... Fri, 07 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/st-bede-s-school-leaders-gather-at-phillip-island https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/st-bede-s-school-leaders-gather-at-phillip-island In preparation for the 2020 school year, the St Bede's College Student Leadership Team, consisting of our School Captain, Vice Captains, four House Captains and their respective Vice Captains travelled to the St. Bede's College Cypress Lodge in Phillip Island. On the bluff dividing YCW and Smiths beach, we returned to our newly renovated facilities, admiring a view that could never cease to amaze. Upon arrival, we immediately made our way down to the beach, taking surfboards and boogie-boards, yet underestimating the sheer power of the waves. With boys, boards and limbs flying eve... Fri, 07 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/new-year--new-youth-ministers- https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/new-year--new-youth-ministers- Lasallian Youth Ministers play an essential role in so many communities within the greater Lasallian family. They are an authentic presence of faith, service and community within a school, leading students of all ages to a closer to themselves, other people and God. They serve students through co-facilitating retreats, being a presence in the classroom and playground and inviting students to attend events within the District. The words of St John Baptist De La Salle live through the Youth Ministers within the Lasallian community. Lasallian Youth Ministers have recently gathered for profes... Fri, 07 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/png-leaders-work-to-3-00-am-to-ensure--great-things-are-possible- https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/png-leaders-work-to-3-00-am-to-ensure--great-things-are-possible- "God is able to do great things through the humble because humility is like a void that leaves room for God."  St John Baptist de La Salle Recently, the Area Coordinators of the Papua New Guinea National Family attended a Leaders' Gathering held at the Country Women's Association in Madang Papua New Guinea, to reflect on the 2020 Institute/District theme "Great Things Are Possible". Area Coordinators attended from AROB, Jiwaka, Aitape, Kokopo, Vanimo, Goroko, West New Britain, Enga, Central, Western Highlands, NCD and Port Moresby. Br Thomas Yapo, Secto... Thu, 06 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/sji-international---july-2020-teacher-recruitment https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/sji-international---july-2020-teacher-recruitment Thu, 06 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/irish-lasallian-tercentenary-celebrations---knock-shrine-2019 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/irish-lasallian-tercentenary-celebrations---knock-shrine-2019 2019 marked the 300th anniversary of the death of St John Baptiste de La Salle founder of the Brothers of the Christian schools (De La Salle Brothers). To mark the occasion the Irish Lasallian Mission held their celebrations in Knock Shrine, Co Mayo, Ireland. This video records the highlights of those celebrations. Wed, 05 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/acu-launches-ground-breaking-faith-formation-partnership-with-the-diocese-of-maitland-newcastle https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/acu-launches-ground-breaking-faith-formation-partnership-with-the-diocese-of-maitland-newcastle A newly launched partnership between Australian Catholic University (ACU) and the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle will work to build a faith-inspired community and the next generation of Catholic leaders. Known as the 'Tenison Woods Education Community' this innovative partnership model between ACU and the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle is an Australian first and is part of a long-term mission formation program that is designed to respond to the multiple and competing challenges that confront faith-based organisations and their personnel, at the community level. Anchored in ACU&#... Tue, 04 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/collaboration-will-enhance-church-s-disaster-response https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/collaboration-will-enhance-church-s-disaster-response A new whole-of-Church initiative to help people and communities recover from the current bushfire crisis will set the blueprint for how the Catholic Church responds to domestic natural disasters in the future. Earlier this month, the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference and a number of other national organisations encouraged Catholics to donate to the Vinnies Bushfire Appeal, which is supporting people who have lost loved ones, homes, property and animals. Those national organisations, representing parishes, religious orders, social service agencies, schools, hospitals and aged and ... Tue, 04 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/12--committed-lasallian-khuram-jameel-shares-his-views-on-challenges-for-catholics-in-a-muslim-country https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/12--committed-lasallian-khuram-jameel-shares-his-views-on-challenges-for-catholics-in-a-muslim-country Who is Khuram Jameel Describe yourself in three words? I am Cordial, Caring and Loving. Where did you grow up? I grew up in Khushpur which is known as the "Rome of Pakistan". Khushpur is one of the most prominent Catholic villages in the Faisalabad Diocese. I consider myself lucky, as religious education is compulsory. True Catholic beliefs continue to play an important role in my personal growth. My family is a religious family; I have my four paternal aunts whom all chose to serve God as Dominican Sisters. Two of my first cousins are Catholic Priest and my Grandfather... Mon, 03 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/pope-appoints-woman-to-senior-diplomatic-role https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/pope-appoints-woman-to-senior-diplomatic-role Pope Francis has broken a Vatican glass ceiling by appointing the first female manager at the Holy See's Secretariat of State. Dr Francesca Di Giovanni has been given a senior diplomatic role as the new under-secretary at the Section for Relations with States and will have responsibility for working with international bodies such as the United Nations. Her role makes her one of two deputy foreign ministers at the Holy See's ministry for foreign affairs, which is led by Archbishop Paul Gallagher. Dr Di Giovanni, 66, is an official at the Secretariat of State where she has worke... Mon, 03 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/armidale-youth-minister-position-open https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/armidale-youth-minister-position-open Lasallian Youth Ministers are employees of Lasallian Mission Council and are responsible for animating the faith life of their base school and the individual faith development of the young people they meet, in accordance with the Lasallian tradition and in coordination with school staff. Their ministry is tailored to school culture and needs, with a focus on building relationships with students and providing a credible witness of faith. For more information click HERE Fri, 31 Jan 2020 13:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/lead-story-320--2020-january-19- https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/lead-story-320--2020-january-19- Click HERE to view the January 2020 Bulletin of the Lasallian East Asia District  Click HERE to view the February 2020 Bulletin of the Lasallian East Asia District Fri, 31 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/coronavirus https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/coronavirus Dear Parent/Carer, Over the last few weeks, you would have heard about the outbreak of the Coronavirus in China including the reports over the weekend of five confirmed cases in Sydney. A small number of school principals have notified the Sydney Catholic Schools' office indicating that some students in their school have indeed visited China over the holiday period. I encourage parents/carers to read the advice from the Commonwealth Department of Health regarding the Coronavirus. NSW Health has comprehensive information available on its website here. In the interest of prioritisin... Fri, 31 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/no-boxing-gloves-permitted https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/no-boxing-gloves-permitted Do you instruct those for whom you are responsible with the attention and the zeal.  God asks of you in so holy a work? By your good conduct, be worthy of this distinguished role. Act in such a way that your life may begin today to be holy and edifying and continue to be such in the future. - St. John Baptist de La Salle1 One of the reasons that humanity has been able to thrive on the earth, according to those who study human progress, is our shared sense of curiosity, our interest in the new and the different, our exploratory dispositions. It is what caused early migratory move... Fri, 31 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/saint-mutien-marie-wiaux https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/saint-mutien-marie-wiaux Mellet (Belgium), 20.03.1841 Malonne, 30.01.1917 This humble Belgian Brother followed the trail of the "everyday" saints. After his primary schooling, he worked at his father's blacksmith business in Mellet. But this was not to be his life, because he felt attract-ed to the life of those teachers whom the Lord had brought into his life. He joined the Brothers, but he realized that before engaging in the apostolate of education, he had to study. This was not his strong point. He did eventually obtain the necessary qualification to teach a class, but he did so at the risk ... Thu, 30 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/prayer-is-the-application-of-our-mind-and-the-elevation-of-our-heart-to-god-to-give----- https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/prayer-is-the-application-of-our-mind-and-the-elevation-of-our-heart-to-god-to-give----- Walking daily with St. John Baptist De La Salle Walking Daily is shared globally within our Lasallian Family (now reaching Australia, Papua New Guinea, Pakistan, Canada, Singapore, Rome, Palestine, New Zealand, America, Philippines, Slovakia, Vietnam, Sweden, United Kingdom, Vienna, Poland, Ireland, Belgium, Samoa and Germany!) God Bless you all in your Ministries and for your priceless work in our Mission! Dear Lasallians around the world, Happy New Year from New Zealand. To my dear Brothers and Sisters in Australia, we continue to pray for you after these many weeks of devastating f... Wed, 29 Jan 2020 08:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/association-updates-from-across-the-lasallian-family https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/association-updates-from-across-the-lasallian-family Each month the Co-Secretaries of Association in the Secretariat of Association and Mission for the Lasallian Family share a newsletter with reflection questions that highlight a different District, Region, or Lasallian (Brother or Partner), and the experience of Association. The newsletters offer a wonderful glimpse into the reality of Association for Mission being lived out in a beautifully diverse and inspiring way around the globe. Association is a common thread that unites all Lasallians regardless of the type of educational institution and therefore must be explained, explored, ... Wed, 29 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/brother-james-miller-beatified https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/brother-james-miller-beatified The beatification of Brother James Miller, FSC, took place Saturday, December 7, in Huehuetenango, Guatemala. Thousands gathered for the beatification, which took place on the soccer fields of Colegio De La Salle de Huehuetenango, where Brother James served until his death. Brother James is the first De La Salle Christian Brother from the United States to be beatified. Brother Superior Robert Schieler, FSC, was in attendance at the beatification, along with Brother Timothy Coldwell, FSC, General Councilor for the Lasallian Region of North America, Brother Michael Ferhenbach, FSC, Midwes... Tue, 28 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/opportunity---education-under-occupation----don-t-miss-it- https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/opportunity---education-under-occupation----don-t-miss-it- Brother Peter Bray, is returning home to New Zealand at the end of January and will be staying part of February. While there he will be giving presentations about life for students at Bethlehem University highlighting the challenges they face. He will then go to Sydney and Melbourne. He will be in Melbourne from 22 February and will be giving two presentations while he is there, on Sunday 23 February in the Ivanhoe parish and on Monday 24 February in the Wesley Church in Melbourne. The details are in the attached flyers. If you haven't heard about these from other sources, this is an ... Mon, 27 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/san-miguel-providing-40-years-of-support-to-vulnerable-young-parents-and-their-children https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/san-miguel-providing-40-years-of-support-to-vulnerable-young-parents-and-their-children San Miguel is a child-centred family residential service providing intensive, individualised support to vulnerable young parents and their children by improving their safety, wellbeing and life prospects. Recently, San Miguel celebrated its 40-year anniversary. The event was celebrated by Brother's who have been involved in San Miguel over the past 40 years as well as the Member for Hawkesbury, Robyn Preston MP, residents, staff and friends of San Miguel (including Sid & Carolyn Kelly, who have been great supporters of the service for many years).  yourtown Board Member P... Mon, 27 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/la-salle-college-presents-archbishop-costelloe-with-new-crosier https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/la-salle-college-presents-archbishop-costelloe-with-new-crosier Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB led more than 5500 flock during the 2019 Australian Catholic Youth Festival Closing Mass at Trinity College on 10 December with a new pastoral staff in hand. Two La Salle College students created the handcrafted crosier under the tutelage of Design and Technology Teacher John Velardo and gifted the hook to His Grace last month within the Office of the Archbishop, Griver House. Adrian Martino, La Salle College Vice Principal and Christian Ministry, attended the crosier presentation along with Mr Velardo and then-Year 10 pupils Brendan Taylor and Benjami... Mon, 27 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/vocations-prayer---january-2020 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/vocations-prayer---january-2020 Silent Reflective Reading (Mother Teresa) We need to find God, and he cannot be found in noise and restlessness. See how nature, the trees, the flow-ers, the grass, grow in perfect silence-see the stars, the moon and the sun, how they move in silence Silence gives us a new outlook on everything. We need silence to be able to touch souls. The essential thing is not what we say, but what God says to us and through us. Jesus is always waiting for us in silence. Reading (Charles Morgan) "There is no surprise more magical than the surprise of being loved; it is God's finger on... Fri, 24 Jan 2020 13:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/southern-cross-student-aims-to-make-a-difference https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/southern-cross-student-aims-to-make-a-difference SHAUNAH Downton isn't your average graduating senior. The 18-year-old was awarded early entry to study midwifery at Australian Catholic University, Banyo, following a school-based traineeship with Metro North Hospital and Health Service. From the Kamilaroi people in Mungindi, overlapping NSW and Queensland borders but with a NSW postcode, Shaunah was named Queensland's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year. She also gained the support of State Member for Murumba Steven Miles who nominated her for Moreton Bay Regional Council's Young Australian of the ... Fri, 24 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/st-michael-s-college-class-of-2019-year-12-results https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/st-michael-s-college-class-of-2019-year-12-results The St Michael's College community celebrates the achievements of the graduating Class of 2019. It is with pride that we acknowledge, both publicly and privately, the many achievements of our students. These are the results of a strong commitment to learning and the partnership and dedicated work of the staff, students and families at St Michael's College. Congratulations to all students recognised in this release, and to the many others who achieved their own personal successes. St Michael's College is committed to an inclusive and respectful community where each individu... Fri, 24 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/gokhuwal-silver-jubilee---a-school-the-founder-would-be-proud-of https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/gokhuwal-silver-jubilee---a-school-the-founder-would-be-proud-of On Friday 22nd November 2019 the Brothers from the Sector of Pakistan, Br David Hawke (Visitor), Bishop Indrias Rehmat, Br Shahzad George (Sector Coordinator) and the local clergy gathered at La Salle Girls' School with Madam Nasreen, staff, pupils and parents to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of La Salle Gokhuwal. Gokhowal is a school of which Saint John Baptist de La Salle would be proud, as is an excellent example of providing human education to the poor. Next door to the school is a new housing estate for the wealthy. It is separated from the school by a high wall topped with barb... Thu, 23 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/exemplary-lasallian-john-singh-rewarded-for-his-45-years-of-service https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/exemplary-lasallian-john-singh-rewarded-for-his-45-years-of-service Late last year Mr John Singh became a Benefactor to the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. John has been a member of staff at De La Salle College, Mangere East, Auckland, since 1974 and has been an exemplary Lasallian for 45 years. He often speaks very highly of the Lasallian education philosophy and practice and is always strongly supportive of the Brothers. On several occasions, he has invited the Brothers to be guests at the Auckland Fijian Association which he and his blood brother started, some years ago. Nothing is any trouble for John. He has been the College... Wed, 22 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/o-connor-catholic-college-students-crush-the-hsc https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/o-connor-catholic-college-students-crush-the-hsc O'Connor Catholic College principal Regina Menz was very proud of this year's HSC students and said their results were beyond expectations. "We're really excited for them because it gives them so many opportunities out of school," she said. "Three students scored over 90, and a lot of the cohort with really strong results. There were 14 band sixes across many subjects, and lots of students performing in the high 80's ATAR as well. "We're as proud of the students who have grown in their learning as well. Today we celebrated students who will ma... Tue, 21 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/lasallian-meet-up-at-australian-catholic-youth-festival--acyf---perth https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/lasallian-meet-up-at-australian-catholic-youth-festival--acyf---perth The Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) is an amazing opportunity for young Catholics to deepen relations with their faith and also to be empowered to be disciples in the modern world. This national gathering allows students to socialise with their peers and other young Catholics from across Australia. Throughout the three days in Perth, it was great to see so many Lasallians participate in the festival. From students at Lakemba to Mentone, Ashfield to Middle Swan, it was inspiring to see so many Lasallians in one space, celebrating and praising our God. Mon, 20 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/aspirants-inspired-by-the-bravery-of-children https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/aspirants-inspired-by-the-bravery-of-children Miss Haq Home is a well-known institute for the physically challenged children in Faisalabad supervised by the Dominican Sisters. Sr. Razia Sadiq O.P is in charge, with 3 more nuns of the community and some dedicated professionals who help the children with various physical therapies and activities. These children come from generally poor families who cannot afford to look after them or provide them with basic medical facilities. At present there are 8 children in the centre from ages 5 to 12 years. De La Salle Apirants Ramesh and Jabran have been regularly visiting the centre for the l... Mon, 20 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/patrick-walsh-newest-affiliated-member-to-the-institute https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/patrick-walsh-newest-affiliated-member-to-the-institute On Saturday 30th November Patrick Walsh was presented with a Certificate and Letter of Affiliation to the Institute. Affiliation is the Brother's way of recognising and acknowledging people who have not only supported them in their work through outstanding gifts and service but who have also supported them through the personal and fraternal relationship they have shown.Patrick has been associated with the Lasallian mission since 1993, a period of twenty-six years. From 1993 until 2003 he was Deputy Principal at De La Salle College Mangere East.  During that time, he acceded to ... Fri, 17 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/bethleham-celebrating-300-years-of-de-la-salle https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/bethleham-celebrating-300-years-of-de-la-salle On April 7th 2019, Bethlehem University faculty, staff and the De La Salle Christian Brothers commemorated the 300th anniversary of the death of Saint John Baptist De La Salle, the founder of the Brothers of the Christian Schools and the Patron Saint of all teachers. The worldwide tercentenary campaign is titled "#300LaSalle: One Heart; One Commitment, One Life. At Mass in the Chapel of the Divine Child, presided by Father Peter DuBrul, a faculty member for more than 40 years, the De La Salle Christian Brothers publicly renewed their vows. The Brothers have administered Bethleh... Thu, 16 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/principal-wins--35-000-award https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/principal-wins--35-000-award What would you do if you won Lotto and got asked to travel the world, seeing and doing something you're passionate about?  In a nutshell, that's what one Principal got. John Paul College principal Patrick Walsh was surprised to open his email to see that he had won the Woolf Fisher Fellowship, an eight-week international study visit worth $35,000. What makes it even better is that he did not even apply for it. The Woolf Fisher Trust was established in 1960 by Sir Woolf Fisher, co-founder of Fisher and Paykel, and offers travel grants to primary, intermediate, secondary sc... Wed, 15 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/together-for-mission---launched https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/together-for-mission---launched The people, the hospitality and the environment at Santa Teresa Spirituality Centre, Ormiston, ensured that we had an ideal venue for the launch of our new District program, Together for Mission (10-15 November). Seventeen people from all sectors of the District, as well as from the Philippines, came together for the first block of five nights and four full working days, the first of four such blocks in the series. The next three will be held over the next three semesters.The strong focus for TFM is on enhancing our capacity to work effectively for the wellbeing and education of young p... Mon, 13 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/end-of-an-era-for-br-gerry-barrett https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/end-of-an-era-for-br-gerry-barrett Brother Gerald Barrett has been a part of the La Salle Bankstown community since 2008. Br Gerry as he is so fondly known, has always been a fantastic ambassador of the Lasallian religious community, and an advocate for student learning and quality education as demonstrated by his classroom passion, as well as the after school Year 7-12 Mathematics program he offered our students to further develop an understanding of mathematical concepts. Br Gerry has always welcomed new staff members to the community, giving very generously of his personal time to support their knowledge of the Lasallia... Mon, 13 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/prayer-during-fire---drought https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/prayer-during-fire---drought Each day during summer across our nation We pray to you, our God, for the gift of life-giving rain, For those threatened this day by a dry land, High temperatures, strong winds, breathing difficulties And extreme fire alerts in parts of our nation. Wherever we are and whatever we do today, We pray for our sisters and brothers Who have died tragically during the bushfires, We pray for their families and friends and community members, And for those who have lost their houses and properties. We turn to you, our God, as we reach out to support each other. We are a family. We pray for ... Sun, 05 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/appointment-of-director-of-schools https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/appointment-of-director-of-schools I  am  delighted  to  announce  the  appointment  of  Mr  Peter  Hill  to  the  position  of  Director of Schools for the Diocese of Wollongong.  With  over  30  years  experience  working  in  Catholic  Education,  Peter  is  currently  Director  Employee  Services  and  a  member  of  the  Catholic  Education  Leadership Team  in  the  Archdiocese  of  Brisbane,  a&nbs... Mon, 23 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/annual-thank-you-christmas-lunch-at-karlaminda https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/annual-thank-you-christmas-lunch-at-karlaminda On Friday 6th December the Karlaminda community held their usual Christmas Thank You Meal to honour staff and others for their assistance throughout the year. Beginning with a prayer service prepared by Br Raymond Khan and concluding with a delicious meal provided by Pauline Toms, Office Manager, Provincial Office. We were graced by the presence of staff and others including professionals from the health industry who have provided support for the community. Fri, 20 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/suzanne-aubert-moves-one-step-further-on-path-toward-sainthood https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/suzanne-aubert-moves-one-step-further-on-path-toward-sainthood A plausible miracle attributed to her has been referred to Vatican doctors for scrutiny. New Zealand Catholic bishops, in Rome for a pilgrimage and a meeting with Pope Francis last week, discussed the possible canonisation of Suzanne Aubert with the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, the Vatican agency responsible for studying sainthood nominations. Bishop of Hamilton Stephen Lowe said the discussions with Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, Prefect of the Congregation were very positive. "Two medical experts will examine the extensive reports of the possible miracle attribute... Thu, 19 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/opening-of-the-sr-berenice-gallery-and-the-faces-of-diversity-exhibition-at-holy-spirit https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/opening-of-the-sr-berenice-gallery-and-the-faces-of-diversity-exhibition-at-holy-spirit Recently Holy Spirit Catholic College Lakemba had cause for a double celebration with the official opening of the Sr Berenice Gallery and the Faces of Diversity Exhibition in the Sr Berenice Gallery.  I would be surprised if any member of the Holy Spirit Catholic College community had not encountered the wonderful Sr Berenice.  Officially the  parent liaison officer, unofficially the resident saint who cares for the parents, students and staff alike.  Our ongoing connection to the Sisters of Saint Joseph who have been living and ministering to the community in Lakemb... Wed, 18 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/de-la-salle-catholic-college-caringbah---2019-cape-york-immersion https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/de-la-salle-catholic-college-caringbah---2019-cape-york-immersion At De La Salle Catholic College Caringbah, we are proudly Lasallian and aim to develop the whole person. John Baptist de La Salle once stated that, "Remembering that God is with you will help and inspire you in all that you do." This year our college participated in its first immersion experience to Cape York, along with students from Our Lady of Mercy College, Burraneer. In 2020, we will be offering three different immersions, hence this year was the start of a new journey for our college. Our students returned inspired from the experience, and these words from Finlay Lynch (Ye... Tue, 17 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/annual-mass-for-our-deceased-brothers--affiliated-members-and-benefactors https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/annual-mass-for-our-deceased-brothers--affiliated-members-and-benefactors On Sunday 10 November the annual mass for our deceased Brothers, affiliated members and benefactors was held in the chapel at Oakhill. Joan Eoe, Affiliated Member came all the way from Port Moresby. It was wonderful gathering with many yarns exchanged. An enjoyable lunch followed at the Brother's house where forty people enjoyed each others company. The mass and lunch went smoothly due to the efforts of numerous Brothers. A similar Mass was held in the chapel of the Brothers' Community at Malvern at which all the Brothers in Melbourne were present. Mon, 16 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/announcment--principal-dls-cronulla https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/announcment--principal-dls-cronulla Dear Lasallian colleagues, Mr Stephen Mahoney has been seconded to the Principalship of De La Sale College, Cronulla, commencing in 2020. As the accompanying announcement from Sydney Catholic Schools notes, Stephen has enjoyed wide leadership experience in Sydney Catholic schools. I am delighted with Stephen's appointment. Having worked with him in a range of schools and roles over the years, I have always appreciated his ability to develop high quality relationships and to work collaboratively with all members of school communities. There is no doubt that Stephen will settle swiftly ... Fri, 13 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/what-is-education- https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/what-is-education- "Education is a shared commitment between dedicated teachers, motivated students and enthusiastic parents with high expectations." Today, the role of a school is not only to pursue academic excellence but also to motivate and empower its students to be lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and productive members of an ever-changing global society. At La Salle High School Campus II, we try our best to provide an atmosphere for our students' development, where children are encouraged to develop their potential in the pursuit of excellence. This can only be possible in a holi... Fri, 13 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/la-salle-bankstown-reflect-on-what-it-means-to-be-a-lasallian-student https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/la-salle-bankstown-reflect-on-what-it-means-to-be-a-lasallian-student Year 11 students at La Salle Catholic College Bankstown attended their Senior Retreat at the Tops Conference Centre in Stanwell Tops.  Students took the time to build upon their relationship with themselves, their community (peers and teachers) and God.  This year's theme 'Touching Hearts' links to both our Lasallian charism and the notion of 'living out' the values and ideals of our community.  St John Baptist de La Salle uses the phrase 'touching hearts' 25 times in his writings, and on another 12 occasions, uses similar wording to this phras... Fri, 13 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/watch--john-paul-college-2019-tercentenary-year https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/watch--john-paul-college-2019-tercentenary-year 2019 - Our Year. Highlight reel of footage captured during 2019 for John Paul College. Fri, 13 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/muslims-and-catholics-come-together-in-pakistan https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/muslims-and-catholics-come-together-in-pakistan Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year for Muslims, The Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) reportedly said, "When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of heaven are opened, the gates of hell are closed, and the devils are chained." Keeping in view the respect of the Holy Month of Ramadan and giving honour and recognition to our Muslim Staff in Lasallian Schools in Pakistan, an Iftar Party and La Salle Day get together were organised and hosted by b La Salle Higher Secondary School Multan.  The staff of all five Lasallian schools renewed an oath that was administered by ... Thu, 12 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/8--strengthening-peer-connections---a-chance-to-reflect-upon-our-relationship-with-god- https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/8--strengthening-peer-connections---a-chance-to-reflect-upon-our-relationship-with-god- Recently, Year 11 students at De La Salle College Ashfield set off on a three day retreat. The retreat was a way in which students were able to put aside school life and allocate time to strengthening peer connections, provide relief from the recent preliminary exams, and most importantly to reflect upon our relationship with God. The retreat was held at the Collaroy Centre which was appreciated for its large open areas for leisure as well as its fabulous location right by the beach. On arrival, Aiden Moore, Lasallian Youth Minister, introduced the theme of the retreat which was to &#39... Wed, 11 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/the-impact-of-yourtown https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/the-impact-of-yourtown There is no doubt that yourtown has made a strong impact over the years for countless young individuals in the stickiest of situations. Between July and September, yourtown undertook its new Efficiency and Effectiveness framework. This produced a stronger focus on the engagement on Social media from winners of the Prize Home network that in turn, made it to hundreds of individuals participating in the competition. There has been an increase in donations from Art Union supporters, which suggests an increase in knowledge and support of yourtown services. Active customer counts in the House ... Tue, 10 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/beyond-the-borders--new-adrien-nyel-community--la-salle-molenbeek https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/beyond-the-borders--new-adrien-nyel-community--la-salle-molenbeek The Beyond the Borders Initiatives are Lasallian international outreach programs, designed to serve the most vulnerable communities throughout the world. This month has been dedicated to the Lasallian Beyond the Borders Initiative: New Adrien Nyel Community: La Salle Molenbeek In the RELEM Region (Lasallian Region of Europe and Mediterranean) there are several initiatives that make the metaphor of borders explicit. All meet significant criteria such as: internationality, diversity, periphery, immigration, inter-culturality or inter-congregationality. Now, we go forward with the crea... Mon, 09 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/beatification-of-br-james-miller https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/beatification-of-br-james-miller "Only an ardent zeal for the salvation of the young can be sufficient reason to decide to sacrifice and spend your life for their education. The life of grace that they will live on earth will be a prelude to that which for them and for you will be perpetuated in glory. (MR 9, 3) Sent on behalf of Br Robert Schieler FSC, Brother Superior Dear Brothers and Lasallians, The beatification of Brother James Miller is a cause of great joy for the Brothers, Partners, Students and all members of the Lasallian Family. As we reflect on Brother James' life and ministry, let us consciou... Sat, 07 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/pope--the-significance-of-the-christmas-creche https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/pope--the-significance-of-the-christmas-creche Greccio is the mountain village where Saint Francis of Assisi created the first crib scene in 1223 to commemorate the birth of Jesus. Pope Francis returned to the town on Sunday to deliver his Apostolic Letter entitled, "Admirabile signum". An enchanting image The Latin title of the Letter refers to the "enchanting image" of the Christmas crèche, one that "never ceases to arouse amazement and wonder", writes the Pope. "The depiction of Jesus' birth is itself a simple and joyful proclamation of the mystery of the Incarnation of the Son of G... Fri, 06 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/lasallian-volunteer-joins-student-sacramental-program---de-la-salle-mangere https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/lasallian-volunteer-joins-student-sacramental-program---de-la-salle-mangere De La Salle Mangere concluded their sacramental program with 3 students receiving their sacrament of Baptism and 15 students and 1 Lasallian Volunteer, Micah Scholes- Robertson from Armidale (O'Connor College, Class of 2018) a receiving their  First Holy Communion and Confirmation. Micah has immersed himself in the culture  of Mangere it was without hesitation he wanted to not only assist the students he also wanted to join with them in the process. When asking Micah , "Why'?  He simply said, "It was a natural decision". Having spent all his schooling... Fri, 06 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/stars-in-the-southern-cross-lasallian-community https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/stars-in-the-southern-cross-lasallian-community CONGRATULATIONS TO HARRISON LEE Harrison has been selected in the Australian Junior team to compete at the 27th FIG Trampoline Gymnastics World Age Competition in Tokyo on the 5-7 December. Harrison will be competing in the Double Min U17 age group. Congratulations Harrison! If you'd like to support Harrison in his quest to go to Japan log onto: - gf.me/u/vz75p3 CONGRATULATIONS TO SHANNON PETRE Over the holidays Shannon Petre (Year 11) competed at the BMX QLD State Championships held in Sarina. She won both her age class (16 years girls) as well as the Elite Class (Superclass W... Thu, 05 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/leadership-makes-a-difference https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/leadership-makes-a-difference High expectations matter, especially for students in schools in low socioeconomic areas beset with social challenges and unemployment. In 2015, Marsden State High School in Logan City, south of Brisbane, had a high rate of suspensions and expulsions, and a high staff turnover. Four years on, as Rebecca Urban writes, the school's long-established track record of producing top sporting talent is being matched with other distinctions for academic and cultural excellence. The disciplinary exclusion rate has fallen by 28 per cent despite rapid growth in the student population to 2500. Staff ... Wed, 04 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/7-new-aspirants-accepted-into-the-orientation-group https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/7-new-aspirants-accepted-into-the-orientation-group Recently, seven new candidates were accepted into the Orientation Group at St Miguel House Pakistan. These seven courageous young men will spend time in the Formation House developing their Vocation. The ceremony was held in the Formation Chapel with the Community Brothers preparing a special prayer service. Br Aloysius led a nice reflection on the theme "like clay in the hands of the potter". The seven candidates were presented with a Holy Bible and Cross from Br Sajid and Br Shahzad congratulated the candidates and encouraged them to grow in their spiritual journey of disc... Tue, 03 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/lasallian-volunteers-2020-announced https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/lasallian-volunteers-2020-announced 13 applicants have been appointed as Lasallian Volunteers in 2020. This is an opportunity of a lifetime for these young men and women. As a volunteer, they will help make an impact and support those in need.  Here why the Lasallian Volunteers applied for the position. BALGO, WA Casey Dykstra (John Paul College Rotorua) I have been thinking about being a volunteer all year, especially after going to the Leaders Camp and listening to the experiences of other volunteers. Being a Lasallian volunteer will enable me to do something really purposeful, to help make a difference in pe... Mon, 02 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/la-salle-centre-provincial-office-christmas-closure https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/la-salle-centre-provincial-office-christmas-closure The La Salle Centre Provincial Office, Christmas closure will be close of business Friday 13th December 2019. We will re open for business on Monday 13th January 2020  Mon, 02 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/la-salle-centre-blessing-and-opening https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/la-salle-centre-blessing-and-opening As of the Thursday 5 September, Provincial Office and Lasallian Mission Services staff ceased working at 26 Meredith Street, Bankstown and moved to Level 4, Flinders Centre, 25 Restwell Street, Bankstown. Members of the District Council, Lasallian Mission Council Board, Lasallian Mission Services and Provincial Office staff came together to celebrate the official opening of the new office "La Salle Centre" on Thursday 14 November. Special guests included Mark Condi, CEO and Shane Mount, Chaplain of the Bankstown Sports Club. Br David Hawke, Visitor, provided the following ref... Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/smooth-transition-for-yourtown-to-lmc https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/smooth-transition-for-yourtown-to-lmc Without any fanfare, but signified by a Transition Ritual and Dinner, there was a significant change to the yourtown governance structure on Friday 25th October when the Company Membership was transferred from the Trustees of the De La Salle Brothers to the Lasallian Mission Council (LMC). The transfer of Company Membership, fully supported by the yourtown Board, was a stage in the process of engaging lay Lasallians in the governance of the six incorporated entities in the Australian Sector of the District of ANZPPNG, in conformity with a decision of the District Chapter of 2012. An emp... Thu, 28 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/life-in-the-formation-house https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/life-in-the-formation-house "A successful person is one who does not run from his difficulties, but who faces them." I joined the Formation House in August 2015, and at present I am in my final year of initial formation. Every year brings new opportunities and challenges for me to advance in my spiritual understanding and get little closer to my goals. The Formation House is not just a place where young men are encouraged and formed to discern their vocation, but it is also an important phase of our life which makes us contented and benevolent persons. Every Aspirant is blessed with different abilities... Thu, 28 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/nz-teachers-help-develop-teaching-strategies-in-png https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/nz-teachers-help-develop-teaching-strategies-in-png We are very grateful to have to participated in the twinning program with PNG 2019. We were part of a group of four teachers (including Ranita Spencer and Fusi Puleiku) who travelled from New Zealand to Papua New Guinea during the New Zealand school term break. This was Tina's first visit to PNG and Peter's fourth. We spent our time at La Salle Technical College in Hohola, a co-ed school of around 750 students aged between 16 and 28.  The school continues to flourish. At the time of our visit Br Garry Coyte was acting Principal and the deputies were Alice Kalama and Penin... Wed, 27 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/st-james-raise--13-000-for-teacher-housing-in-png https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/st-james-raise--13-000-for-teacher-housing-in-png The term Shared Mission is used to describe and animate the work of the worldwide Lasallian family. This work across more than 80 countries, particularly in underdeveloped areas and to fight poverty, assists young people to receive the education and training that perhaps they would be unable to access without the support from others.  All Lasallian Colleges in Australia and New Zealand have each partnered with an overseas school in order to lend support. Recently, St James College East Bentleigh held their Mission Action Day assembly to finalise their contribution for La Salle Tech... Tue, 26 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/what-makes-a-good-lasallian- https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/what-makes-a-good-lasallian- Most likely based on their words and wisdom, they would say this: Lasallians are champions of hope and champions of goodness. Lasallians believe in the miracles in people.  They believe that hope and acts of kindness have a relationship. A relationship that "Springs" from the inner reality of each person. They externalise  this goodness into helping others  -  the last,  the lost, the lonely in our society.  St La Salle would see that hope and good deeds share a  common purpose. With these eyes of faith we can start to see that everything h... Mon, 25 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/applications-open---religious-education-coordinator https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/applications-open---religious-education-coordinator O'Connor Catholic College is a co-educational Year 7-12 Catholic school, catering for approximately 540 students located in Armidale, New South Wales. Religious Education Coordinator Applications are being sought from suitably qualified and experienced staff for the above position, commencing on 28 January 2020. Essentials: 1. Be a practicing Catholic 2. Teaching qualifications meeting the standard for accreditation with NESA 3. Appropriate formal Religious Education qualifications (or willingness to obtain) 4. Extensive experience and effectiveness in the development and integratio... Fri, 22 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/ten-new-lasallian-family-members https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/ten-new-lasallian-family-members On the feast of 'All Souls Day' nine students and one academic staff of Sacred Heart Teachers College had a short reflection ending with a Eucharistic celebration as a ritual for full membership into the PNG Lasallian Family. The Reflection was facilitated by Fr John Tawan MSC, around the Theme ' A Teacher a Missionary to give Hope'. The Day was a concluding session of a ten Lasallian Induction sessions given to all the year three students. It invites those that were influenced by the session topics to join the Lasallian Family in PNG and Internationally. From these sess... Fri, 22 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/a-celebration-of-association-and-connection https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/a-celebration-of-association-and-connection The reunion of Brothers and former Brothers that took place in October turned out to be a unique occasion and opportunity with attendance of over 50 De La Salle Brothers and former Brothers  It was a celebration of association and connection which began with a  morning tea with much animated conversation and a Eucharistic gathering at St Bede's College Mentone, followed by dinner at the Mentone RSL. The Eucharistic assembly celebrated by Father Peter Matheson brought to mind our Lasallian and Christian heritage . It spoke of a union of shared vision and a rich spiritual cu... Fri, 22 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/st-michael-s-college---new-early-primary-and-innovation-centre https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/st-michael-s-college---new-early-primary-and-innovation-centre A significant investment into the facilities at the Primary Campus is underway, catering for increased enrolments and the ongoing enrichment of a quality learning environment that is innovative and adaptable to the current and future educational needs of our students. This development will create further opportunities for our youngest community members to explore their curiosities, flourish and fully realise their potential. New building works will not only enable increased capacity but will include a contemporary state of the art Early Primary Centre encompassing: Five new Early P... Thu, 21 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/offer-a-smile-not-judgement-when-you-walk-by-the-poor https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/offer-a-smile-not-judgement-when-you-walk-by-the-poor An article by Cardinal John Dew, Archbishop of Wellington, to mark World Day of the Poor, Sunday 17 November. Each morning, I start my day with a walk around inner city Wellington.  The inner city looks different at 5am, with mainly early morning workers and some rough sleepers on the streets, compared with later in the day when the city is bustling with activity.My early morning walk is a time of prayer, and I am grateful that it gives me a brief perspective into lives that might not always be visible. By the time the sun has arisen, the rough sleepers have packed up their belongi... Wed, 20 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/indigenous-symposium https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/indigenous-symposium The Tercentenary year provided yet another opportunity to celebrate the uniqueness and diversity of our region ANZPPNG. The Indigenous Symposium held at John Paul College aimed to recognise the important contribution indigenous cultures make to the growth and development of the Lasallian mission.   Included in the symposium was a student voice.  Eight John Paul College senior students from varying faith traditions and cultures candidly shared their perspective of what it means to be a Lasallian, the importance of service and the desire to make a positive contribution to s... Wed, 20 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +1000 https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/live-a-volunteer-experience-beyond-borders--alem-project---tabatinga--brazil https://www.delasalle.org.au/blog/live-a-volunteer-experience-beyond-borders--alem-project---tabatinga--brazil Do you have more than 25 years old? Do you want to dedicate a year or more of your life to the Lasallian mission as a volunteer? Are you a psychologist, teacher, social communicator or you work as pastoral ministry (work with young people and pastoral agents)? Do you speak Portuguese or Spanish? Live an experience of volunteering Beyond Borders in Brazil! The Lasallian community of Tabatinga is waiting for you! Project Alem (Lasallian Animation of Evangelization and Mission) is coordinated by the center of Tabatinga, a city of 60,000 inhabitants in the heart of the Amazon, on ... Tue, 19 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +1000