Thematic groups continue preparations for District Mission Assembly
Over the last few weeks, the work leading to the Second District Mission Assembly has intensified. Three writing groups, one per theme of the Assembly, have started their work on initial working drafts of grounding statements encapsulating the current reality in schools and pastoral centres which we are referring to as Horizon Statements. This work will invite all in the District to become aware of our current reality, and to reflect on the present challenges and opportunities in addressing each thematic priority.
In mid-November, these three groups held a first joint meeting to go over the objectives and process of this stage of the Assembly journey. They are now working separately to continue their preparations for the delegates’ time in Malta in February.
The meetings are allowing for an open debate on the key issues and challenges that face the District over the coming four years. The groups are made up of individuals from all ministry types, all countries, and all Lasallian vocations across the diverse educational systems of the District. The wide-ranging discussions have been both productive and enlightening
The outcome of these initial meetings will be shared widely across the District for consultation and feedback in January 2023. This District-wide reflection will be the springboard for our time of reflection and deliberation together in Malta.
Throughout the process, further information will be provided, including pre-readings, to enable delegates to feel fully prepared and informed in order to contribute as fully as possible.
The three thematic groups of the Assembly are:
1. Creating a Sustainable Organisation: This group will delve into the resources and structures required to ensure the long-term sustainability of the District’s current ministries - and, in creative fidelity to the Lasallian Charism and Founding Story, put forward recommendations on how the Lasallian Family in Ireland, Great Britain and Malta could continue to respond to the needs of the young, especially those most vulnerable and those living in poverty.
2. Sharing the Lasallian Legacy and Ethos: This group will look at updating/reviewing of the Lasallian Identity Framework, its use and promotion; a focus on how to unpack the 5 Core Principles for student bodies, parents and all educators. This group will also follow up on the Ethos Strategy Plans which all schools and centres have worked on this year.
3. Accompany Lasallians in our Communities: This group will focus on the promotion, support and development of Animators and Animation Teams across the District; increasing awareness, understanding and commitment to the fostering of intentional Lasallian communities at local, national and District level. This group will also consider how to strategise and resource the process of accompaniment, belonging and Association in the District.