In the afternoon, following the election of Br. Alvaro Rodríguez Echeverría Superior General, the Chapter members met in the Chapter Hall for an address by the Superior. In his talk, he spoke of his gratitude to the Brothers for the confidence they placed in him by electing him Superior General. He spoke of the many people in his life that have supported, encouraged and inspired him. He thanked Br. John Johnston for his work for the Institute over the past two decades, for his "energetic and pro-active spirit, his vision for the future, the quality of his witness and his reflections, his tenacious work, his rectitude, his profound love of, and interest in, each Brother and each one of the Regions of the Institute."

Br. Alvaro also thanked the members of the General Council, for their "profound human and Lasallian qualities (that) made possible the community life that was fraternal, welcoming, respectful and enriching." "Brothers, let us keep alive the flame that was ours at the birth of the Institute."

Following his address, the members of the Chapter had a "sondage", or sounding vote for the Vicar General of the Institute. The results of this vote were made public to the members who will vote for the Vicar on Monday, June 5. On Monday there will also be a "sondage" for the other members of the General Council. The election of the General Council members is scheduled for Wednesday.

On Saturday June 3, the day following the election of the Superior, the Choir from Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory in San Francisco gave a concert for the General Chapter. Brother Alvaro welcomed them saying, "I visited your school seven years ago, in 1993, while I was travelling from Central America to Rome to attend the 42nd General Chapter. I have many fond memories of your beautiful school and city.

When I arrived in San Francisco, I was delighted with the hospitality offered to me. Now it is my turn to welcome you. I hope you enjoy Rome as much as I enjoyed San Francisco."

The choir is on a concert tour of Italy. They will sing for the Sunday evening mass at St. Peters before leaving on Monday for Assisi, Perugia and Florence. Our thanks to them for a wonderful concert.

We will continue to post news of the various elections and commission proceedings as they become available.