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 Rome, December 18, 2002
Brother Álvaro Rodríguez Echeverría
Superior General |
Dear Brothers, Sisters, Catechists of Jesus Crucified and Mary Immaculate, Signum Fidei members, Associates, Partners, young people and all members of the Lasallian Family,
  Again this year, Christmas awakens in us the need to show our affection for and our interest in the people we love. The first Christmas was the sign of the Father's love for us as he sent us his Son. It seems to me that this act goes to the very heart of this wonderful mystery, which we can sum up in two simple but engaging words: loving and giving.
My thoughts are directed towards each of the members of our Lasallian Family. Physically it is impossible for me to express my feelings to each one of you personally. But by this medium which unites us virtually, I want to express my deep gratitude for all that you do in favor of the Lasallian mission, which is none other than putting the means of salvation within reach of children and young people, especially those who are far from it. May the love of Jesus who became a child, give us new strength and renewed creativity in his service, especially in:
   The fight against poverty, in order to respond very creatively to new forms of de-humanization, to new forms of poverty, and to the calls which come to us from the world of those who are excluded.
The effort to prevent war, which is in opposition to God's plan and which creates even greater problems. We know that war is not the answer and that we should be builders of peace.
The proclamation of the Gospel, starting from the witness of our faith, our catechesis and our leadership in pastoral ministry, as we commit ourselves to the defense of human rights, especially those of women and children; also being open, at the same time, to ecumenism and inter-religious dialogue which allows us to journey together in building up a more human world.
The two priorities to which the Institute has committed itself for this year just beginning:  Educational innovations, allowing us to pass on knowledge which goes beyond mere content, but giving priority to the ability to do research, aware that it is more important to have the ability to keep on learning than to know a lot. The pastoral ministry of vocations, in order to continue responding to the growing needs of the poor and all young people.
 May Jesus, the Word incarnate, fill each of you and your loved ones with his choicest blessings throughout 2003. Thank you for your support and your friendship.
Fraternally in De La Salle,
Brother Álvaro Rodríguez Echeverría
Superior General
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