Inspiring presentations at Ministry Leaders’ Conference
The Lasallian Ministry Leaders Conference for Ireland saw Principals and Pastoral Centre Directors gather to take part in what proved to be a very uplifting and enlightening meeting. This was held at the Bloomfield House Hotel in Mullingar on November 18thand 19th.
Organised by the Office of Mission in collaboration with the MEL Committee for Ireland, the event featured an array of speakers who presented and discussed a variety of topics in the programme entitled ‘Recovery and New Beginnings’.
It was an opportunity for the Principals to gather in person for the first occasion since the Covid pandemic struck, and also for some new Principals to meet their colleagues for the first time. Once again it proved to be a very positive and informative experience for all involved.
Br. Ben Hanlon welcomed all to the conference and expressed his appreciation to all for their efforts in caring for our young people, particularly in such challenging times. He also pointed out that there is a great need to recapture some of the principles of Lasallian Education as they continue to have a significant impact on the experience of young people today.
David Wells
One of the many highlights was the contribution of keynote speaker, David Wells, who addressed the Conference on Thursday afternoon and Friday morning with insightful presentations that left delegates inspired and with a great sense of positivity. All were grateful for David’s unique and entertaining style which keeps all focused on the essence of his message.
David’s key message focused on well-being. He regularly thanked all delegates for the excellent work they do, and reminded all to take time out for themselves, to reflect on the bigger picture and to accept the challenges that they face.
This was necessary in order to protect the key virtues such as enthusiasm, love and care - central to the Lasallian Mission - which can be easily lost in the modern world where cynicism, pessimism and idealism are threats to our values.
The delegates were then reminded of how Lasallian Core Principles are being lived on a daily basis in our schools by Joe McCann (St. Patrick’s Grammar School, Downpatrick) and Eileen Doolan (De La Salle College Waterford).
Joe spoke about the family atmosphere in the school in Downpatrick and the importance of caring for students to allow them develop their talents. He highlighted how healthy relationships are the means to ensure that the young entrusted to our care have thrived in all aspects by the time they graduate.
Eileen also spoke about the sense of community that was at the heart of the school in Waterford. She stressed how this community spirit challenges everyone to look out for each other. This greatly contributes to the lived ethos and charism at the school.
To conclude the first day Joseph Gilson (Director of Mission) outlined the ‘Lasallian Strategy and Evaluation’ which will allow schools to reflect on why ethos is important, assess strengths and opportunities, and chart out next steps of development and growth in this critical area of school life. Joe linked this initiative with broader calls and similar projects that are taking place throughout the Lasallian world.
Martin Brennan and Brian Halpin
The second day of the conference saw a very informative presentation from Brian Halpin (Chair MEL Ireland) and Martin Brennan (former Principal at De La Salle Dundalk and MEL Committee member) on the importance of the synergy between Principal, Animator and Animation Team.
Eunan Whyte (Communications Officer) spoke about the importance of creating a sense of community through developing the District publications and website. News from schools was crucial in creating this bond and he encouraged Principals and Community Directors to ensure they contributed and to make the information available to the whole school community.
Jo Millea (Director of Formation and Vocation Ministry) reflected on the success of the Lasallian Awards 2021 initiative in terms of encouraging students to live Lasallian values outlined in the Five Core Principles of a Lasallian School. She also revealed that the Office of Mission is currently working on a pilot project that will allow schools to share resources and establish stronger connections through a common platform across the network.
The conference ended with Br Ben Hanlon and Aideen Cassidy (Beneavin De La Salle College) outlining how principals could contribute to the region through ASSEDIL (European Association of Lasallian Heads/Principals).