Prayer in linguistic Groups.

Breakfast

1st Session in the Aula Magna

Break

2nd Session in the Aula Magna

Lunch

3rd Session in the Aula Magna

Break

4th Session in the Aula Magna

Eucharist in linguistic Groups.

Supper

THE CHAPTER APPROVES THE DOCUMENT ON ASSOCIATION

The document on Association has taken the longest time to be discussed. It is a theme for which Brothers and Lasallians expect a declaration and some lines for action. The development of Association and the new structures for the Lasallian Educational Mission in different Regions have not been the same. The different rhythms followed in recent years was reflected in the discussions and had an influence in seeking consensus on the final edition.

It was a rich discussion. The theme, for some, is very real for today. Among other requests heard in the Chapter Room was that of changing the formula of the Brothers’ vows. Finally, the document was approved. The support of everyone was reflected in the large majority on the electronic voting panel in the Chapter Hall.  

AN ITALIAN EVENING… TAKING A BREATH IN OUR WORK

In the midst of days certainly filled with work, the Italian Brothers offered us an “Italian supper” that offered a short breathing time for the Capitulants… Outside the building in the fresh air in an informal and relaxed way we were able to share our brotherhood. Times such as this are needed in the progress of the Chapter.

In the garden, typical old style lamps gave a fine touch to the ambience. We could prove that Brother Roch Dufresne, besides his mastery of everything about photography, was also an artist in his use of a knife to cut the cheese… A fireworks display was the final touch to what had been a very heavy day’s work. Thank you, our Italian Brothers

THE POPE TELLS BROTHER ALVARO “THE BROTHERS ARE VERY IMPORTANT TO THE CHURCH”

Two days after being re-elected, Brother Alvaro personally greeted Benedict XVI, extending to him the Brothers’ greetings and reiterating our commitment to the Church.  In the past, it has been the custom of the Pope to have an audience with the Capitulants following the election of the Superior General.  This time, it was done in a different manner as can be seen on our webcast.

The Pope’s words to Brother Alvaro leave no doubt concerning the importance of the Brothers as evangelizers… “The Brothers are very important to the Church.”

YOUNG BROTHERS’ PROPOSAL

The work of the Chapter continues.  The impact of this intense month of work is evident.  Brother Vincent Ruiz (Spain) spoke on behalf of the young Brother Capitulants, thanking the Chapter for inviting them.  He reported that they have felt very welcome and completely free to express themselves.

They shared their hopes and fears, their inexperience and their dreams.  Although they had already shared these ideas in their thematic groups, a number of the Captulants encouraged them to share these ideas with the entire Assembly.  What they offered was not a “magic formula”, but simply an expression of the way in which BEING BROTHERS TODAY is reflected within our cultural diversity.

In the course of the discussion, Brother Superior, the Vicar and various Capitulants expressed their appreciation for the presence of the young Brothers and their valuable contributions.