The autumn 2021 issue of De La Salle Today celebrates the Year of Saint Joseph. Regarded as a model, guide and protector, Saint Joseph is patron of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. To honor the 150th anniversary of the declaration of Saint Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church, Pope Francis declared 2021 a special Year of Saint Joseph. With this, the Superior General and General Council announced 2021 as the Lasallian Year of Saint Joseph.
The first story in De La Salle Today explores Pope Francis’ Apostolic Letter on Saint Joseph, Patris Corde (With a Father’s Heart), and the writings of Saint John Baptist de La Salle related to Saint Joseph. We also look at the original seal of the Institute, which features Saint Joseph and the child Jesus.
In his meditation for Saint Joseph, De La Salle urged the Brothers to embody Joseph’s qualities of being just, showing fidelity to obedience and caring for Jesus. As this call extends to today’s Brothers and Lasallian Partners, you’ll read reflections on what the meditation means in ministry today.
In Patris Corde, Pope Francis described Joseph as a “man who goes unnoticed, a daily, discreet and hidden presence” and reminded us of the impact those “in the shadows” can have. We invited nominations to find those “silent ones,” and we highlight them in the issue, on our website, and on Facebook and Twitter.
This issue also features a powerful reflection from Brother Ghebreyesus Habte, FSC, Lwanga District Visitor, on his connection to Saint Joseph through his years at Saint Joseph School in Keren, Eritrea.
As Saint Joseph offers an example of a model and guide, flip to the center of this issue for Lasallian Essentials, which focuses on Circular 475, From Hope to Commitment: Understanding Lasallian Vocations, to explore ways you can serve as a model and guide. Finally, as we mark the 330th anniversary of the Heroic Vow, Brother Gerard Rummery, FSC, explores the events that led up to the vow and the idea of it being considered the Founding Vow.
We hope you enjoy the autumn issue of De La Salle Today, which also features student artwork. Printed copies are being mailed, and we invite you to enjoy this interactive version or download the PDF.