Students from Christian Brothers Academy in Syracuse, New York, submitted reflections on what Lasallian spirituality means to them, how they will carry their Lasallian values into the summer, and where they have felt God’s presence this year.
By Biruk Royal
To me, Lasallian Spirituality is about more than just doing good; it’s about the deep human connection and feeling the Holy Spirit work through me to help those in need. This past year, I felt God’s presence most clearly at Headstart and Meals on Wheels where I realized that service isn’t just a task, but an opportunity to put smiles on kids’ faces and truly learn the stories of the people I meet.
These experiences have profoundly impacted how I serve others, reminding me not to simply serve the less fortunate, but to treat them with love and get to know them personally. I lived out the Lasallian core principles of concern for the poor and social justice and respect for all persons by seeing religious differences not as boundaries, but as valuable learning experiences.
As I move into the summer, I will carry these Lasallian values with me by continuing to seek out those special connections. I plan to apply these principles by prioritizing social justice in my daily life and ensuring that every person I encounter feels seen and valued for who they are.
By Elizabeth Khoy
Throughout my two years at CBA, I have helped out in the community. I have worked with Ronald McDonald House and Emmaus Ministry this year. Volunteering has changed my perspective on how small acts of kindness can make an impact on the people you help.
Lasallian spirituality, to me, is living out my life through faith. The Lasallian principles have guided me in serving our community. I use the principles inclusivity, respect for all, and concern for the poor and social justice whenever encountering others. I help others because you never fully know the challenges or circumstances that someone may be facing.
While I was volunteering at Emmaus Ministry, the director and volunteers explained why they volunteer. When they were explaining their stories, I realized how everybody has different lives, but one thing everyone had in common was genuine care for the people that came into the building. When I went to volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House, I felt God’s presence through the people I went with. I got to know many of the volunteers on a deeper level. Through these friendships, I learned the importance of community and saw how God can bring people together through shared purposes. I came to understand that serving others doesn’t just help the people you are serving, it also helps you create connections.
By Jonathan Warren
I believe that seeing God in every person means recognizing that even small acts of kindness can make a difference. This year, I have volunteered my time with many organizations that helped me understand that service is not just about helping others, but about showing compassion, building relationships, and truly treating everyone from all walks of life with dignity and respect.
We are called to serve those who need us most and I have learned that lesson through our Lasallian traditions at CBA. It could be participating in a school project, volunteering, or helping someone who is struggling. I have been taught the core value of putting faith into action. Through these experiences, I have felt God in new connections, gratitude and hope.
As I move into the summer months, I plan to carry my Lasallian values with me by continuing to find opportunities to serve others. This includes helping those in need, respecting others, and recognizing value in each person. After volunteering at the Diaper Bank, the Samaritan Center, Acing Autism, and the Upstate Cancer Center, I hope to continue my service this summer at my church. My church gave a presentation on a program that supports children with Down Syndrome as they learn about and grow in their own faith within the Catholic Church. The Lasallian experience at CBA has taught me that these values are not something we practice occasionally. These values are our way of life and help me make a positive impact on others.
