Strengthening Collaboration for the Future of Lasallian Education

The StAR Commission (Strategic Alliances for RELEM) recently met with representatives from the District of Ireland, Great Britain and Malta in St Helens. This session, like others happening across the RELEM Region, is part of an important process of reflection on how to ensure the vitality and sustainability of over 450 schools and centres throughout Europe and the Mediterranean.

The aim of StAR is clear: to enhance collaboration across Districts and help secure the future of the Lasallian Mission. The Commission is inviting all Districts to reflect on what type of Governance is need to strengthen Formation initiatives, enhance opportunities that foster a deeper Culture of Vocation, and support the conditions that allow Association to grow. 

The Commission is encouraging all District Councils, District MEL Councils and other key members of District Leadership or Animation Teams to reflect on the role that our shared commitment, our people and communities, and our partnerships play in ensuring vitality and growth.

During the meeting, District representatives highlighted the District’s strengths and the experiences and resources it brings to the Region, while also expressing areas where support might be needed to address current and future challenges. The Commission underscored how each District’s unique contributions strengthen the collective, demonstrating the mutual benefits of working collaboratively across the Region.

This is a forward-looking process—one that anticipates emerging needs, fosters proactive collaboration, and ensures that our shared Mission thrives for generations to come. By engaging in moments of reflection and dialogue, the StAR Commission seeks to develop a shared roadmap that respects the unique contexts of each District while embracing the potential of working as one Lasallian family.

StAR Commission Photo (From Left to Right): Br Paco Chiva - Auxiliary Visitor of ARLEP; Br Enrico Muller - Executive Secretary of RELEM; Joe Gilson - IGBM rep. on RELEM MEL Council; Br Joël Palud - General Councilor; Br Paul Cornec - Auxiliary Visitor of District of France and Francophone Europe; Joke Maex - North Belgium rep. on RELEM MEL Council.

This is not about “standing still.” It is about deepening the bonds of unity and cooperation that have always been at the heart of the Lasallian educational mission. Together, through openness and discernment, the steps taken today will ensure that our schools and centres remain beacons of faith, service, and community well into the future.

As we undertake this journey, we are guided by the spirit of St John Baptist de La Salle and the belief that through collaboration and trust, we are better equipped to sustain and energise our shared mission.

While this represents an initial step along what will likely be a significant journey of reflection, the District extends its full commitment to supporting the StAR Commission and wishes it every success in this important work.