With the arrival of our partner consultants, the chapter began its second phase. The 1st phase was an examination of the realities and challenges that we face as we move into this century. During the second phase members of the Chapter are going to be invited to make propositions that take into account these challenges and the realities that we have examined.

The first question dealt with was, "Is a central theme necessary at this time, or should the Chapter wait for one to develop as the work of the Chapter advances?" After reflection in linguistic groups and debate in the General Assembly, a consensus developed that we should preserve the central theme that had been proposed by the preparatory commission:

" Associated in the service of the poor through education as the lasallian response to the challenges of the 21st century "

The central commission, taking account those offered by the different linguistic groups, proposed six commissions. The commissions are all based on the central theme.

1. ASSOCIATED
The aim of this Commission is to reflect on the respective identities of Brothers and partners, on the spirituality of our association and on the forms and levels of partnership.

2. FOR THE SERVICE OF THE POOR THROUGH EDUCATION
We are called by vocation to fight against poverty and to struggle for the promotion of justice. A policy of our works needs to be adopted so that we become more and more faithful to this foundation of Lasallian mission. Choices have to be made today.

3. EVANGELISATION OF YOUNG PEOPLE
What is to be done in a secularised, pluralist and inter-religious context? What are we to present to the young people and to the adults amongst whom we work? The pastoral activity of inviting young people, Lasallians, and Lasallian volunteers, has to be continually renewed. Vocational promotion must be redeveloped everywhere despite the difficulties.

4. FORMATION
Formation to mission is essential. There are a variety of types of formation: that specific to Brothers, that specific to associates, that common to both, and basic and on-going formation.

5. ACCOMPANIMENT AND STRUCTURES OF ANIMATION
This Commission needs to look into all that concerns organisation: schools, the structures of the work environment of lay partners, and community structures including those of ageing communities.

6. GOVERNMENT OF THE INSTITUTE
Aim: everything concerning the central government of the Institute (including services) and local government (Regions and Districts). Government must be at the service of mission. It must be a driving force whether at the central or local level.

Two other Commissions could be formed if needs be at the beginning of Phase 3 which begins on the 22nd of May.

7. SOME SORT OF PUBLIC STATEMENT
This Commission would be responsible for preparing a message for the Brothers, lay partners and the media, to offer information on our work as a Chapter and our objectives.

8. FINANCE
The purpose is clear enough: discuss the Report of the Bursar General and consider the 7 years that lie ahead.

The work of the Commissions is well under way. The members of Chapter have endeavoured to spread themselves amongst the Commissions in such a way that the Chapter can take into account the diversity of the Institute throughout the world. Every one of the smaller rooms of the buildings is being pressed into service for groups and sub-groups. There is a great deal of talk, but it is about the real world and local realities.

At the end of the week, Commissions will present to the Chapter Assembly a first report so that this can be discussed in the following week.