Emotional conclusion to Mission Assembly

The second District Mission Assembly came to a memorable conclusion on Wednesday February 6th when delegates paved the way forward for the District over the next four years by completing and overwhelmingly endorsing the Direction Statements.

The ceremonial handing over of those statements to Brother Visitor, Ben Hanlon, was an emotional moment and a fitting conclusion to a process that encompassed a great deal of energy, enthusiasm and effort over 18 months.

The day began with the three thematic groups putting the finishing touches to the statements and after they were endorsed by the Assembly, delegates had to opportunity to provide further affirmation by placing stickers of hearts and stars on the printed copies. This was designed to help identify priorities in delivering on the statements.

Tomeu Martorell, representing RELEM, spoke of his delight at being invited to attend and congratulated all on the work that was done over the three days.

Br. Chris Patino, General Councillor, reminded delegates that although there was a lack of sun in Malta over the week, it was the Mission Assembly that provided the gift of light. He added that he was encouraged by the sense of unity in the gathering and the fact that they recognised the challenges ahead, but it was clear there was a desire to respond to those challenges with enthusiasm.

Br. Joel Palud, General Councillor, congratulated all for the hard work and pointed out that as guarantors of the Lasallian Charism, one of our responsibilities to was ensure that the charism was open and flexible.

Heather Ruple introduced the handing over of the Direction Statements to Br. Ben by Sam Cantillon, representing the wisdom of youth, and Br. John Deeney, representing the zeal of the journey. She asked him to take the work to the District Chapter to share with the Brothers the hopes and wishes of the Lasallian Family.

In his closing address, Br. Ben reflected on what had been achieved over three days in terms of building relationships and also the bold, brave and practical steps embraced with will sustain and enhance the Lasallian Mission.

He pointed out that it will take time to deliver on all the hopes but he was confident that in four years we will see the fruit of what has been done this week.

Br. Ben thanked all those who had contributed to make the Mission Assembly such as success and presentations were made to recognise those efforts.

The Mission Assembly reached a fitting conclusion when Jo Millea called on each school and pastoral centre to accept the new District flag from Br. Ben as a symbol of unity present in Ireland, Great Britain and Malta.

The celebrations continued in the evening with a special banquet which was followed by wonderful entertainment provided by teachers from Stella Maris College, and the evening certainly reflected the energy, passion, unity and sense of fun that will ensure the Lasallian Mission will thrive in the future.