Christian Brothers Conference has created a Frequently Asked Questions resource for those considering applying to the new Lasallian Spirituality Fellows program. The program will begin September 2025 and will invite Lasallians to deepen their knowledge of Lasallian Spirituality while engaging in three in-person sessions and 15 virtual sessions over 18 months.
Lasallian spirituality will be presented as a ministerial journey of faith, in both a personal and communal way. Participants will take on this journey as educators in Christ, guided by the spirit for the good of the world, particularly the young and the poor. The inaugural group will be led by Brother William Mann, FSC, D.Min. Applications are due by May 15, 2025, and applicants will be notified of their status by June 2, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m trying to decide between Buttimer and the Lasallian Spirituality Fellows. Which should I choose?
The Lasallian Spirituality Fellows program is an advanced, in-depth study in Lasallian Spirituality. The successful applicant will likely have completed the Buttimer Institute of Lasallian Studies or another advanced formation program (CIL, Brothers’ formation, etc.), and will likely have an advanced degree or have spent significant time studying spirituality or theology.
What are the dates?
The monthly Zoom sessions will be scheduled once the cohort is set, but will likely be one evening per month, so as not to conflict with ministerial commitments. We ask you to set aside 90 minutes for each Zoom session as the conversations not go longer than that.
The four in-person dates will be as follows: Sept. 19-21, 2025 at Ocean Rest (Ocean City, New Jersey); March 2026 (TBD); Nov. 19 –21, 2026 at the Huether Conference (Minneapolis, Minnesota); and April 2027 (TBD).
I heard about the Pedagogy Fellows program. Can I do both?
In 2026, Christian Brothers Conference will launch the Lasallian Pedagogy Fellows program, which will closely parallel the Spirituality Fellows program. Each program Is designed to be an immersive experience that requires time, reflection and commitment. To ensure participants can fully engage with the content of each program, we encourage applicants to choose the one that best fits your current interests and needs and consider applying to the other in a future year.
How many people will be accepted?
We anticipate a first cohort of seven to nine fellows. This small group will allow for deeper relationships, a richer learning experience and more meaningful conversations.
What if I’m not accepted? Will I have another chance in the future?
Yes. This is our inaugural cohort. We plan to run this program regularly.
How do I make sure my application is strong enough?
We want to understand your background and your interest in the program. Why does this matter to you, and how will you use it to benefit your ministry, your District or the Lasallian educational mission? We will take your essays and your recommendation letter very seriously.
Is there actually no cost?
Christian Brothers Conference is covering the cost of the facilitator, presenters, the books that you will be read (which will be sent to you throughout the program), and the facilities and meals during the in-person sessions. You or your ministry are required to cover the cost of travel to the four in-person sessions.
Can I be a presenter on Lasallian spirituality when I complete the program?
Most likely. Our hope is that the fellows will have an expertise in Lasallian spirituality that will help them to support Lasallians, ministries and initiatives important to the Institute. They might be invited speakers at schools, they might author reflections or articles, or they might support ministry, District or Regional formation programs.