Visitors bring inspiration to St Joseph’s
On March 14th St. Joseph’s College gathered to celebrate our 170th anniversary with a special Olive Tree Planting Ceremony. The sun shone down upon us, blessing the occasion with warmth and light, as students, staff, and guests came together in a moment of reflection, gratitude, and hope for the future.
The ceremony was led by our school chaplain Marie-France Bogui, Brother Patino FSC and Co-Headteacher Mr. G. Mantillas, who planted the olive tree—a powerful symbol of growth, resilience, and the deep roots of our St. Joseph’s College community. Every student present played a role in this significant act, helping to fill the hole in which the tree was placed. It was a beautiful and symbolic moment, a true representation of how, as a community, we all contribute to something greater than ourselves.
The planting of this tree was more than just a ceremonial act; it was a statement of legacy—one that honours the generations who have passed through our school while looking forward to the ones who will follow. As the tree grows, so too will the respects for faith, learning, others, community, and self that define St. Joseph’s College.
Following this inspiring ceremony, our student representatives—including Caleb Agyepong, Erastus Bedlow, Emmanuel Eboigbe, Khalan Hanchard, Jaeden Heron,Jaheim Johnson, Keijay-Li Julian-Badchkam, Enock Mulumba, David Rodrigues, and Hugo Troszczynski—along with our Sixth Form Leadership Team: Mohammad Mahdi Hasan, Bianca Fernandes Freitas, and Chinedum Arinze, took part in a Q&A session with Br Chris and Br Pubudu.
Br Chris and Br Pubudu shared their stories and reflections on the Lasallian vocation, touching on their journeys to becoming brothers, what they love about their mission, and the importance of service and community in a world in need of hope. Amazing questions came from Emmanuel, Erastus, Enock, and David, which sparked thoughtful discussions and enriched the session even further.
A Vocation Rooted in Service
When asked about what initially called them to live a Christian life as brothers, both Brothers shared powerful stories of their early influences. Brother Pubudu was drawn to the Brothers’ active involvement in sports and their commitment to education. He recalls, "I was very much attracted to their lifestyle, playing basketball and cricket, but it was their commitment to the educational service of children that truly inspired me.”
Over time, the sense of family and the opportunity to serve others became more important than any external appeal, with Br Pubudu finding fulfilment in considering every child as his own.
Br Chris, who hails from Los Angeles, shared his own path to the vocation. His deep involvement in service work during his school years, particularly with homelessness, sparked a desire to live a life of service. The pivotal moment came during a university summer mission trip to the Philippines, where he worked with incarcerated youth. "That ministry was transforming lives," Br Chris said. "It gave me a second chance at life, and that was when I knew I could give my life to this Lasallian Mission."
The Power of Brotherhood
Both Brothers were asked what they love most about being part of the Lasallian community. For Br Pubudu, it’s seeing the impact of their work on young people, nurturing them like seeds and watching them grow. "I’ve been a Brother for over 30 years, and to see former students thriving in their careers and lives is incredibly rewarding," he explained. "It’s about giving hope to young people and seeing the fruits of our labour."
Br Chris emphasised the global aspect of the Lasallian Mission, noting that it spans 79 countries. He finds hope in seeing the diversity within the Lasallian family, as brothers and lay partners come together to serve the educational needs of young people worldwide. "We are a global family," he said, "and I find joy in the fact that we are always seeking to meet the needs of young people wherever they are."
The Calling to Stay
When asked about the moment that confirmed their calling, Br Chris shared a story of moving from California to Arizona for university, thinking the call to become a Brother would fade. However, the Lasallian Mission followed him, with Brothers announcing a new school in the city that year. "It was like God was saying, ‘This is where you need to be,’" he said.
For Br Pubudu, it was a profound and unexpected moment after completing his studies. "It’s hard to explain," he said. "But I felt a powerful calling, even though I wasn’t the type of student people expected to become a Brother." He spoke of the struggles and challenges faced during those early years but emphasised how deeply fulfilling it has been to continue in the mission.
Serving as Brothers in a Changing World
As the brothers reflected on the state of the world, they shared concerns about the challenges of living in a world divided by good and bad actions. Yet, they also found hope in the selfless acts of kindness and service, whether through charitable donations or simply helping others. "It’s the same spirit the Brothers have shown us in our schools," said one of the students. "It’s about giving back."
The Brothers also addressed the question of why they chose the vocation of brotherhood over priesthood. Br Chris explained that he didn’t feel called to be a priest but saw a unique opportunity to serve alongside young people as a Brother. "In the brotherhood, we’re not above anyone; we’re alongside them, serving together," he said, emphasising the horizontal, rather than hierarchical, nature of the brotherhood. He also jokingly added, "Why a brotherhood and not priesthood? I wanted Sundays off."
Br Pubudu echoed this, noting that the Lasallian Brothers sacrifice two important sacraments—marriage and priesthood—to devote themselves fully to education. "Our mission is clear," he said, "to give hope to children and help them live with dignity and freedom."
Fraternity: The Heart of Brotherhood
One of the most moving moments of the session was when Br Chris and Br Pubudu shared their deep sense of fraternity. "I first met Br Pubudu in Sri Lanka," Br Chris said with a smile, "and here we are, reunited in the UK." Their bond of brotherhood transcends borders, with the Brothers working together in countries as diverse as South Sudan and the Holy Land, united in their mission to serve.
The spirit of fraternity is what fuels their dedication, and it’s a bond that’s felt across the Lasallian family. "We’re not just brothers in name," Br Chris said. "We are brothers in mission, living the same commitment to serve and walk with young people around the world."
Looking to the Future
As the session came to a close, the brothers left the students with a message of hope. "You are the future," Br Pubudu said. "When you look at the world today, don’t just focus on what’s wrong—look for the good that is being done and do your part to make the world a better place."
Their words of wisdom and inspiration resonated deeply, reminding all present of the power of service, hope, and brotherhood. As the Lasallian Mission continues to evolve, it’s clear that the spirit of service and fraternity will continue to guide and inspire future generations.
