The Buttimer Institute of Lasallian Studies hosted more than 70 Lasallians, Brothers and Partners alike, from around the world for a two-week intensive formation program from June 28 – July 11. Held at Manhattan University in Riverdale, New York, the program enables educators to delve into the life, work and spirituality of Saint John Baptist de La Salle and the origins of the Lasallian educational mission.
All five Regions of the global Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools were represented again this year at Buttimer.
Joanne Millea, director of formation for the District of Ireland, Great Britain and Malta, said, “Buttimer allowed me the time and space to look again at this wonderful charism that Saint John Baptist de La Salle has entrusted us with, and through the weaving of stories and experiences from colleagues from all around the world, I feel we have been able to look again at the challenges that our world presents today and ask ourselves, what would De La Salle do? How might we light the way for others through the example of our Founder?”
Millea added that a highlight was the sharing of “mission moments” by participants throughout the two weeks. “We could see the school or center, witness service in action and hear about how the Lasallian educational mission is lived out globally,” she said.
The Buttimer Institute is a three-year program. Participants in the first year focus on the founding story and the vocational journey of an educator. They were led by Timothy Gossen, Ed.D., and Brother George Van Grieken, FSC, Ph.D.
First-year participant Sara Troyani, Ph.D., principal at Saint Mary’s College High School in Berkeley, California, said that in learning about the foundations of the mission, “I found myself reflecting on the ways this journey is not one we walk alone. One of the greatest gifts of Buttimer was leaving with new relationships across our global Lasallian mission, colleagues and friends I can turn to for support, wisdom, and encouragement as I continue my ministry.”
Dr. Troyani also said that she left Buttimer “with a renewed lens for discerning the work before us. One question I will carry back to my community is: Will this initiative help us grow in faith, zeal, and community? … This simple but profound framework has given me a clearer way to evaluate our decisions and ensure that our work remains rooted in the heart of the Lasallian mission.”
Second-year participants study De La Salle’s educational vision and read his pedagogical and catechetical writings. Greg Kopra, AFSC, Ed.D., facilitated year two coursework.
Colin Smith, director of mission and ministry at Saint John Paul II Academy in Boca Raton, Florida, said that “attending Buttimer, especially in the small similar role discussion groups, helped to spark some new ideas that I plan on using in my ministry.”
A second-year participant, Smith said, “It was easy to build community through class time, socials, and events that we planned outside” of the schedule.
Participants in their final year of the program engage with the spiritual writings of De La Salle, in particular, his Meditations and the Explanation of the Method of Interior Prayer.
Third year-participant Brother Michael Phipps, FSC, interim director of mission and formation, Cretin-Derham Hall, St. Paul, Minnesota said, “Deepening my understanding of the Founder’s spirituality has made me more aware of the ways in which my personal discernment has unfolded. I am always struck by the Founder’s words at the end of his life: I adore in all things the will of God in my regard. What do my community, my ministry, my relationships look like when I truly seek the will of God in my life?”
At the close of the program, graduates are recognized during a Graduation Mass and closing banquet attended by all participants, facilitators and community directors.
“Going back to my ministry, I feel called to be more intentionally present, more patient, and more responsive to the needs of my students,” said Roxanne Leopardi, assistant director for mission at Oakhill College in Castle Hill, New South Wales, Australia, and third year-participant. “This renewed relationship with the Founder will strengthen the way I build community and accompany the young people entrusted to me, keeping his spirit of zeal and presence at the center of my work,” she added.
“At its core, Buttimer represents the beautiful potential and power of the Lasallian family; being and becoming a sign of hope and salvation to the world,” said Brother Michael.