Lasallians from across the Region found time for rest, renewal and reflection on the Encountering Lasallian Spirituality Retreat at the Bethany Center in Lutz, Florida, Nov. 3-6. Facilitated by Brother Michael Phipps, FSC, Brother Michael French, FSC, and Holly Hoey Germann, the retreat covered three thematic areas that addressed the dynamics of Lasallian spirituality, the development of spirituality and Lasallian spirituality and Lasallian spiritual leadership.
In addition to their sessions, participants had opportunities for prayer, reflection, Mass, socials and a “Parmenie Walk,” where they walked in pairs in the style of the early Christian Brothers.
Aidan Campolettano, religious studies teacher at La Salle Academy in Providence, Rhode Island, said that one quote shared by a facilitator from the 2023 document published by the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, “Lasallian Spirituality Today,” struck him and permeated his retreat experience: “The best way to learn about Lasallian spirituality is to be part of an authentic Lasallian educational community.”
“I left the retreat ultimately feeling renewed but also energized to get back to my community and continue to work with my colleagues to create as positive of an experience for all the students entrusted to our care,” said Campolettano.
Reflecting on her retreat experience, Mallorie Bussey, marketing designer at Lasallian Educational and Research Initiatives (LERI) in Winona, Minnesota, said, “I was struck by the power of the Lasallian prayer: ‘Let us remember that we are in the holy presence of God.’ … The mightiness of such a simple prayer, not just the words but also the silence after, resonated with me and has made its way into my personal prayer throughout the day.”
“What stands out from my retreat experience is the continual need for Lasallian educators from various ministries to gather and recommit to our shared charism of ‘together and by association.’ The knowledge, wisdom and lived experience of other Lasallians from around the country nourished my spirit and added value to the why of my daily work with students. To be reminded that I am connected to a much larger global network of educators brings purpose and meaning to my vocation,” said Andy Hodges, religious studies teacher at Justin-Siena High School in Napa, California.
“After several days on retreat, I’m left with a desire to learn more about De La Salle’s Method of Interior Prayer. Finding God in the depths of my heart is central to my ministry and life. In that sense, the retreat will continue,” added Hodges.