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A Synthesis of Quebec 2002
Rome, June 30, 2003
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 In 2002, as young Lasallians worldwide, we received the invitation to undertake a new path, like the one of St. John Baptist de La Salle, calling us to walk with joy, knowing that God will support us and be present in each bend of this path.
All participants initially received guidelines for reflection that would lead us to a symposium in Québec. This symposium helped to define our direction and the tasks involved in constructing the kingdom of God: a CIVILIZATION of LOVE.
 Br. William Mann invited us to further take part in the Lasallian family, and to accompany the Brothers as a result of what he witnessed evolving in Quebec. His words, "I will, if you will," will resonate in our hearts for a long time. These words challenged us but left us wondering how to answer his invitation. We answered with enthusiasm, "we will!"
In response to the challenge presented, the universal reaction from young Lasallians present in Quebec was the following:
  Relationships should be strengthened between young Lasallians worldwide, deepening our knowledge of international programs and activities.
We also desire to further unite all young people who feel passionately about the Lasallian charisma and share a common mission, working in partnership with to the Brothers of the Christian Schools and the extended Lasallian family.
Key topics devised from discussion groups in Quebec focused on both the personal, local, regional and international levels.
  At all levels there was a large emphasis on the awareness of diversity as a call to accept all people as Lasallians including those of various religions, cultures, languages, races and communities.
There is a necessity of a personal conversion to the Lasallian way of life where your actions inspire others.
Formation was stressed for youth, educators, students, professionals and the religious, especially on topics of social justice.
There should also be an increased awareness of our own situations and the values of de La Salle in our world.
A desire to improve communication was voiced, to create better links and increase knowledge of other Lasallian works.
In conjunction with the Lasallian Institute as a whole, we recognize the call to work for the rights of children, especially with service towards the most poor, through education.
There is also a need for strengthening of communities from local to international levels in partnership with the Brothers of the Christian schools.
 In order to adequately respond to the issues that arose in Quebec, we must attempt to live with the following Lasallian virtues as our guide.
Deciding to live according to the charisma on Saint John Baptist De La Salle through a life of faith that discovers God in every day life according to one's own religious texts.
Promoting and participating in the idea of community at all levels, including local sectors as well as international.
Devoting oneself to the Lasallian mission, associated with the service of the poor, with a universal openness that promotes acceptance of all people and interests.
The International Council of Young Lasallians has been established in response to the need outlined by worldwide youth attending the symposium at Quebec. It is coordinated by Brother Vicar General, has been asked to assist the Brother Superior and the General Council in working with the districts.
(International Council of Young Lasallians, ICYL icyl@lasalle.org) |
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