Paths of convergence: Meeting of the Animation Teams of the IGBM and Arlep Districts
As part of the process of convergence of the Districts and the Delegation of the Lasallian Region of Europe-Mediterranean (RELEM) into a single District, a working day was held on 21 January between the Animation Teams of the Arlep District (La Salle in Spain and Portugal) and the IGBM District (La Salle in Ireland, Great Britain and Malta).
The meeting, which was attended by the Brother Visitors of both Districts (Visitors and Auxiliary Visitors) aimed to learn about the structure and progress of the IGBM District, which since 2015 has been composed of communities and ministries spread across three countries.
In this regard, the Brothers of the IGBM District generously shared their experience as a transnational District, answering questions from the Arlep District Animation Team and explaining the strategies used to unite three diverse realities into a single identity. This led to reflection on an inspiring aspect of the past and present process: how to reconcile administrative unity with the diversity and cultural richness of each country?
Through a detailed presentation, it was possible to look at the daily life of the IGBM District: its communities, its educational and pastoral works, and the level of identification of educators with the Lasallian charism. It was very valuable to learn how the Animation Team distributes its functions and maintains a cohesive work rhythm despite geographical spreading.
Likewise, the financial reality of the District was addressed with transparency, understanding that sustainability is a necessary pillar for the mission to remain fruitful.
This meeting was not only an exchange of technical data; it was an exercise in attentive listening and fraternal nobility. The meeting concluded with the certainty that the path to convergence in RELEM requires strength and a great capacity for awe at what the Spirit is doing in other parts of the Lasallian geography.